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• How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates

How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates

Published on October 12, 2022 by Shona McCombes and Tegan George. Revised on November 21, 2023.

A research proposal describes what you will investigate, why it’s important, and how you will conduct your research.

The format of a research proposal varies between fields, but most proposals will contain at least these elements:

Introduction

Literature review.

• Research design

Reference list

While the sections may vary, the overall objective is always the same. A research proposal serves as a blueprint and guide for your research plan, helping you get organized and feel confident in the path forward you choose to take.

Table of contents

Research proposal purpose, research proposal examples, research design and methods, contribution to knowledge, research schedule, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about research proposals.

Academics often have to write research proposals to get funding for their projects. As a student, you might have to write a research proposal as part of a grad school application , or prior to starting your thesis or dissertation .

In addition to helping you figure out what your research can look like, a proposal can also serve to demonstrate why your project is worth pursuing to a funder, educational institution, or supervisor.

Research proposal length

The length of a research proposal can vary quite a bit. A bachelor’s or master’s thesis proposal can be just a few pages, while proposals for PhD dissertations or research funding are usually much longer and more detailed. Your supervisor can help you determine the best length for your work.

One trick to get started is to think of your proposal’s structure as a shorter version of your thesis or dissertation , only without the results , conclusion and discussion sections.

Download our research proposal template

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See an example

Writing a research proposal can be quite challenging, but a good starting point could be to look at some examples. We’ve included a few for you below.

• Example research proposal #1: “A Conceptual Framework for Scheduling Constraint Management”
• Example research proposal #2: “Medical Students as Mediators of Change in Tobacco Use”

Like your dissertation or thesis, the proposal will usually have a title page that includes:

• The proposed title of your project
• Your supervisor’s name
• Your institution and department

The first part of your proposal is the initial pitch for your project. Make sure it succinctly explains what you want to do and why.

Your introduction should:

• Introduce your topic
• Give necessary background and context
• Outline your  problem statement  and research questions

To guide your introduction , include information about:

• Who could have an interest in the topic (e.g., scientists, policymakers)
• How much is already known about the topic
• What is missing from this current knowledge
• What new insights your research will contribute
• Why you believe this research is worth doing

As you get started, it’s important to demonstrate that you’re familiar with the most important research on your topic. A strong literature review  shows your reader that your project has a solid foundation in existing knowledge or theory. It also shows that you’re not simply repeating what other people have already done or said, but rather using existing research as a jumping-off point for your own.

In this section, share exactly how your project will contribute to ongoing conversations in the field by:

• Comparing and contrasting the main theories, methods, and debates
• Examining the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches
• Explaining how will you build on, challenge, or synthesize prior scholarship

Following the literature review, restate your main  objectives . This brings the focus back to your own project. Next, your research design or methodology section will describe your overall approach, and the practical steps you will take to answer your research questions.

To finish your proposal on a strong note, explore the potential implications of your research for your field. Emphasize again what you aim to contribute and why it matters.

For example, your results might have implications for:

• Improving best practices
• Informing policymaking decisions
• Strengthening a theory or model
• Challenging popular or scientific beliefs
• Creating a basis for future research

Last but not least, your research proposal must include correct citations for every source you have used, compiled in a reference list . To create citations quickly and easily, you can use our free APA citation generator .

Some institutions or funders require a detailed timeline of the project, asking you to forecast what you will do at each stage and how long it may take. While not always required, be sure to check the requirements of your project.

Here’s an example schedule to help you get started. You can also download a template at the button below.

Download our research schedule template

If you are applying for research funding, chances are you will have to include a detailed budget. This shows your estimates of how much each part of your project will cost.

Make sure to check what type of costs the funding body will agree to cover. For each item, include:

• Cost : exactly how much money do you need?
• Justification : why is this cost necessary to complete the research?
• Source : how did you calculate the amount?

To determine your budget, think about:

• Travel costs : do you need to go somewhere to collect your data? How will you get there, and how much time will you need? What will you do there (e.g., interviews, archival research)?
• Materials : do you need access to any tools or technologies?
• Help : do you need to hire any research assistants for the project? What will they do, and how much will you pay them?

If you want to know more about the research process , methodology , research bias , or statistics , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Methodology

• Sampling methods
• Simple random sampling
• Stratified sampling
• Cluster sampling
• Likert scales
• Reproducibility

 Statistics

• Null hypothesis
• Statistical power
• Probability distribution
• Effect size
• Poisson distribution

Research bias

• Optimism bias
• Cognitive bias
• Implicit bias
• Hawthorne effect
• Anchoring bias
• Explicit bias

Once you’ve decided on your research objectives , you need to explain them in your paper, at the end of your problem statement .

Keep your research objectives clear and concise, and use appropriate verbs to accurately convey the work that you will carry out for each one.

I will compare …

A research aim is a broad statement indicating the general purpose of your research project. It should appear in your introduction at the end of your problem statement , before your research objectives.

Research objectives are more specific than your research aim. They indicate the specific ways you’ll address the overarching aim.

A PhD, which is short for philosophiae doctor (doctor of philosophy in Latin), is the highest university degree that can be obtained. In a PhD, students spend 3–5 years writing a dissertation , which aims to make a significant, original contribution to current knowledge.

A PhD is intended to prepare students for a career as a researcher, whether that be in academia, the public sector, or the private sector.

A master’s is a 1- or 2-year graduate degree that can prepare you for a variety of careers.

All master’s involve graduate-level coursework. Some are research-intensive and intend to prepare students for further study in a PhD; these usually require their students to write a master’s thesis . Others focus on professional training for a specific career.

Critical thinking refers to the ability to evaluate information and to be aware of biases or assumptions, including your own.

Like information literacy , it involves evaluating arguments, identifying and solving problems in an objective and systematic way, and clearly communicating your ideas.

The best way to remember the difference between a research plan and a research proposal is that they have fundamentally different audiences. A research plan helps you, the researcher, organize your thoughts. On the other hand, a dissertation proposal or research proposal aims to convince others (e.g., a supervisor, a funding body, or a dissertation committee) that your research topic is relevant and worthy of being conducted.

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Research Time Management

• Research time management
• Identify project expectations
• Write a project summary
• Create a project timeline
• Stay motivated
• Get help and support
• Workshop recording

Write a Project Timeline

 creating a project timeline .

• Project Timeline Template

Other subtasks

Tests, lab reports, and presentations , for a speech or presentation, consider the following subtasks.

• identifying a topic
• writing talking points
• creating visual aids, including finding images 
• transitions
• practice timing the speech

For a lab report, consider the following subtasks

• understanding the experiment
• completing the experiment
• interpret and synthesize results
• research for introductory, support information
• write lab report
• revisions and edits

Studying for a test, consider the following subtasks

• Organize materials and notes
• First review of notes and materials, big picture
• Second review a few days later, to review more challenging concepts
• Third review, a few days later, synthesize
• Fourth review/self test a few days before the test
• Schedule a time to meet with instructor to review concepts you don't understand
• day of pep talk, relax, quick review an hour before the exam.

Strategies for multi-semester projects

Research time management for multi-semester projects.

Strategies for a longer research project are similar to short projects: identify the scope, break the project down into smaller stages, target deadlines. 

• << Previous: Write a project summary
• Next: Stay motivated >>
• Last Updated: Oct 23, 2023 12:13 PM
• URL: https://libguides.wmich.edu/timemanagement

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Blog Education

How to Write a Research Proposal: A Step-by-Step

By Danesh Ramuthi , Nov 29, 2023

A research proposal is a structured outline for a planned study on a specific topic. It serves as a roadmap, guiding researchers through the process of converting their research idea into a feasible project. 

The aim of a research proposal is multifold: it articulates the research problem, establishes a theoretical framework, outlines the research methodology and highlights the potential significance of the study. Importantly, it’s a critical tool for scholars seeking grant funding or approval for their research projects.

Crafting a good research proposal requires not only understanding your research topic and methodological approaches but also the ability to present your ideas clearly and persuasively. Explore Venngage’s Proposal Maker and Research Proposals Templates to begin your journey in writing a compelling research proposal.

What to include in a research proposal?

In a research proposal, include a clear statement of your research question or problem, along with an explanation of its significance. This should be followed by a literature review that situates your proposed study within the context of existing research. 

Your proposal should also outline the research methodology, detailing how you plan to conduct your study, including data collection and analysis methods.

Additionally, include a theoretical framework that guides your research approach, a timeline or research schedule, and a budget if applicable. It’s important to also address the anticipated outcomes and potential implications of your study. A well-structured research proposal will clearly communicate your research objectives, methods and significance to the readers.

How to format a research proposal?

Formatting a research proposal involves adhering to a structured outline to ensure clarity and coherence. While specific requirements may vary, a standard research proposal typically includes the following elements:

• Title Page: Must include the title of your research proposal, your name and affiliations. The title should be concise and descriptive of your proposed research.
• Abstract: A brief summary of your proposal, usually not exceeding 250 words. It should highlight the research question, methodology and the potential impact of the study.
• Introduction: Introduces your research question or problem, explains its significance, and states the objectives of your study.
• Literature review: Here, you contextualize your research within existing scholarship, demonstrating your knowledge of the field and how your research will contribute to it.
• Methodology: Outline your research methods, including how you will collect and analyze data. This section should be detailed enough to show the feasibility and thoughtfulness of your approach.
• Timeline: Provide an estimated schedule for your research, breaking down the process into stages with a realistic timeline for each.
• Budget (if applicable): If your research requires funding, include a detailed budget outlining expected cost.
• References/Bibliography: List all sources referenced in your proposal in a consistent citation style.

How to write a research proposal in 11 steps?

Writing a research proposal in structured steps ensures a comprehensive and coherent presentation of your research project. Let’s look at the explanation for each of the steps here:  

Step 1: Title and Abstract Step 2: Introduction Step 3: Research objectives Step 4: Literature review Step 5: Methodology Step 6: Timeline Step 7: Resources Step 8: Ethical considerations Step 9: Expected outcomes and significance Step 10: References Step 11: Appendices

Step 1: title and abstract.

Select a concise, descriptive title and write an abstract summarizing your research question, objectives, methodology and expected outcomes​​. The abstract should include your research question, the objectives you aim to achieve, the methodology you plan to employ and the anticipated outcomes. 

Step 2: Introduction

In this section, introduce the topic of your research, emphasizing its significance and relevance to the field. Articulate the research problem or question in clear terms and provide background context, which should include an overview of previous research in the field.

Step 3: Research objectives

Here, you’ll need to outline specific, clear and achievable objectives that align with your research problem. These objectives should be well-defined, focused and measurable, serving as the guiding pillars for your study. They help in establishing what you intend to accomplish through your research and provide a clear direction for your investigation.

Step 4: Literature review

In this part, conduct a thorough review of existing literature related to your research topic. This involves a detailed summary of key findings and major contributions from previous research. Identify existing gaps in the literature and articulate how your research aims to fill these gaps. The literature review not only shows your grasp of the subject matter but also how your research will contribute new insights or perspectives to the field.

Step 5: Methodology

Describe the design of your research and the methodologies you will employ. This should include detailed information on data collection methods, instruments to be used and analysis techniques. Justify the appropriateness of these methods for your research​​.

Step 6: Timeline

Construct a detailed timeline that maps out the major milestones and activities of your research project. Break the entire research process into smaller, manageable tasks and assign realistic time frames to each. This timeline should cover everything from the initial research phase to the final submission, including periods for data collection, analysis and report writing. 

It helps in ensuring your project stays on track and demonstrates to reviewers that you have a well-thought-out plan for completing your research efficiently.

Step 7: Resources

Identify all the resources that will be required for your research, such as specific databases, laboratory equipment, software or funding. Provide details on how these resources will be accessed or acquired. 

If your research requires funding, explain how it will be utilized effectively to support various aspects of the project. 

Step 8: Ethical considerations

Address any ethical issues that may arise during your research. This is particularly important for research involving human subjects. Describe the measures you will take to ensure ethical standards are maintained, such as obtaining informed consent, ensuring participant privacy, and adhering to data protection regulations. 

Here, in this section you should reassure reviewers that you are committed to conducting your research responsibly and ethically.

Step 9: Expected outcomes and significance

Articulate the expected outcomes or results of your research. Explain the potential impact and significance of these outcomes, whether in advancing academic knowledge, influencing policy or addressing specific societal or practical issues. 

Step 10: References

Compile a comprehensive list of all the references cited in your proposal. Adhere to a consistent citation style (like APA or MLA) throughout your document. The reference section not only gives credit to the original authors of your sourced information but also strengthens the credibility of your proposal.

Step 11: Appendices

Include additional supporting materials that are pertinent to your research proposal. This can be survey questionnaires, interview guides, detailed data analysis plans or any supplementary information that supports the main text. 

Appendices provide further depth to your proposal, showcasing the thoroughness of your preparation.

Research proposal FAQs

1. how long should a research proposal be.

The length of a research proposal can vary depending on the requirements of the academic institution, funding body or specific guidelines provided. Generally, research proposals range from 500 to 1500 words or about one to a few pages long. It’s important to provide enough detail to clearly convey your research idea, objectives and methodology, while being concise. Always check

2. Why is the research plan pivotal to a research project?

The research plan is pivotal to a research project because it acts as a blueprint, guiding every phase of the study. It outlines the objectives, methodology, timeline and expected outcomes, providing a structured approach and ensuring that the research is systematically conducted. 

A well-crafted plan helps in identifying potential challenges, allocating resources efficiently and maintaining focus on the research goals. It is also essential for communicating the project’s feasibility and importance to stakeholders, such as funding bodies or academic supervisors.

Mastering how to write a research proposal is an essential skill for any scholar, whether in social and behavioral sciences, academic writing or any field requiring scholarly research. From this article, you have learned key components, from the literature review to the research design, helping you develop a persuasive and well-structured proposal.

Remember, a good research proposal not only highlights your proposed research and methodology but also demonstrates its relevance and potential impact.

For additional support, consider utilizing Venngage’s Proposal Maker and Research Proposals Templates , valuable tools in crafting a compelling proposal that stands out.

Whether it’s for grant funding, a research paper or a dissertation proposal, these resources can assist in transforming your research idea into a successful submission.

Research Voyage

Research Tips and Infromation

03 Proven Steps to Write Timeline Section of Research Grants Proposal

Grants are a critical source of funding for many research projects, where technology is advancing rapidly, and new discoveries are being made every day. Writing a successful grant proposal requires a combination of technical expertise, innovative ideas, and effective communication skills.

One essential component of a research grant proposal is the timeline section, which outlines the project plan and demonstrates how the proposed activities will be executed within a specific timeframe.

In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of creating a clear and concise timeline section for a research grant proposal. We will explore how to identify major milestones and activities, divide activities into specific time periods, use a chart or table to represent the timeline, label and describe each activity, and review and refine the timeline section to increase your chances of securing funding.

Whether you are a seasoned researcher or a newcomer to grant writing, this post will provide you with practical tips and examples for creating a persuasive and effective timeline section that showcases your expertise and potential impact.

In case you are not familiar with writing research grant proposals, then please visit my post on  Research Grants Uncovered: A Step-by-Step Guide to Funding Your Research Projects . This post will help you in writing powerful research grant proposals in minimal time.

Introduction

I. identifying major milestones and activities, ii. dividing activities into specific time periods, iii. using a chart or table to represent the timeline.

Grant proposals are often submitted to secure funding for research projects. The timeline section is an essential part of a grant proposal that outlines the expected duration of the project and the sequence of events that will take place. A clear and concise timeline section is crucial in convincing the reviewers that the project is feasible and can be completed within the given timeframe.

The purpose of the timeline section is to provide a roadmap of the research project and show how the various activities and milestones will be achieved over time. It helps to demonstrate that the project has been carefully planned and that the researchers have considered the necessary resources, equipment, and personnel needed to carry out the research.

Creating a timeline section involves several steps, including identifying the major milestones and activities, dividing these activities into specific time periods, using a chart or table to represent the timeline, labeling and describing each activity, and reviewing and refining the timeline section.

For example, in a computer science research project, the timeline section might include activities such as:

• Literature review: Conducting a thorough review of existing research on a particular topic and identifying gaps in the literature.
• Data collection: Gathering relevant data from various sources, such as surveys, experiments, or simulations.
• Data preprocessing: Cleaning and preparing the data for analysis.
• Data analysis: Using statistical or machine learning techniques to extract insights and patterns from the data.
• Model development: Creating a mathematical or computational model that can be used to predict outcomes or simulate scenarios.
• Implementation: Implementing the model or algorithm in software or hardware.
• Testing and validation: Testing the model or algorithm to ensure that it produces accurate results and validating the results against real-world data.
• Publication and dissemination: Writing research papers, presenting at conferences, and sharing the findings with the broader scientific community.

By following the steps outlined in this blog post, researchers can create a timeline section that effectively communicates the scope of their research project and demonstrates their ability to complete the project within the given timeframe.

In research projects, it’s essential to identify the major milestones and activities that need to be accomplished. These milestones and activities are critical to achieving the research objectives and completing the project within the given timeframe.

Examples of activities that may be included in a computer science research grant proposal include:

• Design and development of new algorithms or software
• Data collection and analysis
• Testing and validation of the algorithms or software
• Integration with existing systems or platforms
• Writing research papers and presenting at conferences
• Dissemination of research findings to the scientific community
• Collaboration with industry partners or other researchers

Once you have identified the major milestones and activities, it’s important to prioritize them based on their importance and their impact on the research project. For example, some activities may be more critical than others, and delaying them could have significant consequences on the overall project timeline.

One way to prioritize activities and milestones is to use a technique called critical path analysis. This involves identifying the activities that are critical to the project’s success and ensuring that they are completed on time. By focusing on these critical activities, you can ensure that the project stays on track and is completed within the given timeframe.

For example, the design and development of new algorithms or software might be a critical activity. If this activity is delayed, it could impact the entire project timeline and delay other activities, such as testing and validation. Therefore, it’s important to prioritize this activity and ensure that it’s completed on time.

In summary, identifying major milestones and activities and prioritizing them is crucial in a research project. This helps to ensure that the project stays on track and is completed within the given timeframe.

Once you have identified the major milestones and activities in your research project, the next step is to divide them into specific time periods. This involves determining the duration of each activity and scheduling them in a logical sequence to create a timeline.

Dividing activities into specific time periods is important for several reasons. It helps to ensure that the project stays on track and is completed within the given timeframe. It also enables you to monitor progress and identify potential delays or roadblocks early on, allowing you to take corrective action as needed.

When choosing time periods for your activities, there are several considerations to keep in mind. For example, you may choose to use weeks, months, or even quarters as your time units. The choice of time units will depend on the nature and complexity of your research project, as well as the preferences of the funding agency.

Another consideration is to ensure that the time periods are realistic and achievable. It’s essential to estimate the time needed for each activity accurately. Overestimating or underestimating the time needed for an activity can lead to delays or a compressed timeline, which can impact the quality of the research.

Here are some tips for estimating the time needed for each activity:

• Break down each activity into smaller tasks: This can help you to estimate the time needed for each task more accurately.
• Consider dependencies between tasks: Some tasks may be dependent on others, and delays in one task may impact the entire project timeline.
• Take into account any potential roadblocks or delays: For example, if your project involves collecting data from multiple sources, you may need to factor in the time needed to negotiate access to the data.
• Consider the experience and skill level of the research team: If your team is new to a particular research methodology or technology, it may take longer to complete certain activities.

For example, in a computer science research project, if the design and development of new algorithms or software is a critical activity, you may estimate that it will take six months to complete. You may then break this activity down into smaller tasks, such as requirement gathering, design, coding, testing, and documentation. You can then estimate the time needed for each task and schedule them in a logical sequence to create a timeline.

In summary, dividing activities into specific time periods is an essential step in creating a timeline section in a research grant proposal. It helps to ensure that the project stays on track and is completed within the given timeframe. By carefully estimating the time needed for each activity and considering potential roadblocks, you can create a realistic and achievable timeline.

After identifying major milestones and activities and dividing them into specific time periods, the next step is to represent the timeline visually. Using a chart or table is an effective way to present the timeline section of your research grant proposal.

Here are some benefits of using a chart or table to visually represent the timeline:

• Provides a quick overview: A chart or table can provide a visual representation of the timeline, allowing readers to quickly understand the project’s duration, major milestones, and activities.
• Easy to understand: A well-designed chart or table can make the timeline section of your proposal easy to read and understand, even for non-experts.
• Highlights critical activities: By using color-coding or other visual cues, you can highlight critical activities or milestones that are essential to the project’s success.
• Demonstrates organization and planning skills: A well-organized chart or table demonstrates your organizational and planning skills, which are critical in research projects.

Here are some example timeline formats that can be used in computer science research grant proposals:

• Gantt Chart: A Gantt chart is a popular tool for representing a timeline visually. It shows the project’s duration, major milestones, and activities, and their interdependencies in a horizontal bar chart.
• Table Format: A table format is another way to represent the timeline visually. It typically includes columns for the activity or milestone, start and end dates, and the duration of each activity.
• Calendar View: A calendar view provides a visual representation of the timeline in a monthly or weekly format. It can be helpful for projects that are time-sensitive or involve multiple team members.

Here are some tips for creating an effective and easy-to-read chart or table:

• Use a clear and concise title: The title of your chart or table should clearly indicate the project’s duration, major milestones, and activities.
• Use color-coding or other visual cues: Color-coding or other visual cues can make it easy to distinguish between different activities and milestones.
• Include relevant information: The chart or table should include all relevant information, such as start and end dates, duration, and interdependencies between activities.
• Keep it simple: The chart or table should be easy to read and understand, even for non-experts. Avoid cluttering the chart or table with too much information.

For example, in a research project, a Gantt chart might be a good choice to visually represent the timeline. You could include major milestones and activities, along with their interdependencies, in a horizontal bar chart. You could color-code the chart to highlight critical activities or milestones that are essential to the project’s success.

In summary, using a chart or table to visually represent the timeline section of your research grant proposal can be an effective way to present the information in a clear and concise manner. By using color-coding or other visual cues and keeping the chart or table simple, you can create an easy-to-read and understandable timeline.

Example of a Gantt chart :

In this example, the activities are listed in chronological order, and their durations are specified. The timeline is divided into months, and each task is assigned a start and end date within the appropriate month. This format allows for a clear understanding of the timeline and how each task fits into it.

However, it should be noted that a Gantt chart is usually a more visually intuitive way to present a timeline, as it shows the relative duration of tasks more clearly than a table.

Here is an example of a timeline table in tabular format:

This table includes the same information as the Gantt chart example in the previous answer, but in a different format. Each row represents an activity or milestone, and there are columns for the start and end dates, as well as the duration of each activity.

This format can be useful for presenting a timeline in a more compact way and can be easier to read for individuals who may have difficulty interpreting a visual representation of the timeline.

However, it should be noted that a table format may not be as effective at conveying the interdependencies and relationships between different activities and milestones, which can be more easily represented using a Gantt chart or other visual format.

Here is an example of a timeline in a calendar view:

This calendar view shows a monthly breakdown of the activities and milestones in a research grant proposal. Each row represents a week, and each column represents a month. The activities and milestones are listed under the appropriate week and month in which they occur.

This format can be useful for presenting a timeline in a way that is easy to follow and understand. It can also be helpful for projects that involve multiple team members or are time-sensitive, as it provides a clear view of deadlines and the duration of each activity.

However, it should be noted that a calendar view may not be as effective at conveying the dependencies and relationships between different activities and milestones, which can be more easily represented using a Gantt chart or other visual format.

How to label and describe activities in the timeline section of a research grant proposal, specifically in the computer science domain:

• Activity: Software Development Description: Develop and test software modules to meet project requirements. This includes designing and implementing algorithms, creating user interfaces, and debugging code.
• Activity: Data Collection Description: Gather data from online sources, research databases, and other relevant sources. This includes extracting and preprocessing data, and ensuring data quality.
• Activity: Prototype Testing Description: Conduct usability and functionality testing on the project prototype to identify and fix bugs, and improve the user experience.
• Activity: Report Writing Description: Summarize research findings and project outcomes in a clear and concise report. This includes creating data visualizations, discussing limitations and implications, and drawing conclusions.

When labeling and describing each activity, it’s important to be concise and specific. Use action verbs to describe what will be done during each activity, and provide enough detail to give a clear understanding of the task. It’s also important to consider potential roadblocks or contingencies that may arise during each activity, and plan accordingly. For example, you may include a contingency plan for software development, in case additional debugging or testing is required.

Overall, labeling and describing each activity in the timeline section of a research grant proposal is crucial for communicating the scope and goals of the project, and for helping reviewers to understand how the project will be executed. By providing clear and concise descriptions, you can help ensure that your proposal stands out and is successful in securing funding.

Here are some examples of how to review and refine the timeline section of a research grant proposal in the computer science domain:

• Importance of reviewing and refining: The timeline section is a critical component of a research grant proposal, as it communicates how the project will be executed and whether it is feasible within the proposed timeline. It’s important to review and refine the timeline section to ensure that it accurately represents the project plan and is free from errors or inconsistencies.
• Tips for getting feedback: To get feedback on the timeline section, consider sharing it with colleagues or mentors who have experience in grant writing or project management. Ask them to review the timeline section for accuracy, completeness, and clarity. Additionally, consider seeking feedback from individuals who are not familiar with the project, to ensure that the timeline section is easy to understand and communicates the project plan effectively.
• Common mistakes to avoid: When reviewing and refining the timeline section, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can undermine the credibility of the proposal. For example, avoid overestimating the time required for activities, as this can make the proposal appear unrealistic or unfeasible. Additionally, avoid using ambiguous language or unclear labels, as this can make it difficult for reviewers to understand the project plan.

Overall, reviewing and refining the timeline section of a research grant proposal is crucial for ensuring that the proposal accurately represents the project plan and is free from errors or inconsistencies. By seeking feedback from colleagues and mentors and avoiding common mistakes, you can help ensure that your proposal stands out and is successful in securing funding.

A clear and concise timeline section is a crucial component of any research grant proposal, where projects can be complex and involve multiple team members. By identifying major milestones and activities, dividing activities into specific time periods, using a chart or table to represent the timeline, labeling and describing each activity, and reviewing and refining the timeline section, you can effectively communicate your project plan and increase your chances of securing funding.

It’s important to remember that the timeline section is not only a planning tool but also a persuasive document that demonstrates the feasibility of the project. By carefully crafting a timeline section that is realistic, feasible, and well-organized, you can showcase your expertise, commitment, and potential impact, and inspire reviewers to invest in your project.

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How to Create a Research Timeline for Your Thesis

5-minute read

• 21st May 2023

Beginning a dissertation can feel both thrilling and overwhelming. One of the best things you can do to prepare for the exciting journey of doing a dissertation is to design a comprehensive timeline as your guide. Here we will take you step by step through creating your thesis timeline and provide some example templates, so you’ll be well-prepared to begin your dissertation work.

Reasons for Creating a Timeline

There are many benefits to crafting a detailed dissertation timeline. In addition to helping with time management and meeting crucial deadlines, your timeline will also help you stay motivated by reviewing the tasks you have completed as you progress. A thorough timeline will be valuable during your dissertation proposal and useful if you are applying for grants or other additional funding.

Ste0ps for Creating a Timeline for Your Thesis:

• Research and record all requirements and deadlines.

Before you write out your timeline, ensure you know all of your program’s requirements and deadlines. Academic institutions often require you to complete your dissertation within a specified timeframe.

There are likely several recommended or mandatory deadlines for approval of certain items by your adviser (and possibly the rest of your committee members). Gather all these dates beforehand so you can allot an appropriate amount of time to meet your deadlines.

It will be beneficial to meet with your adviser to understand when you are expected to complete the major phases of your dissertation work and to confirm that there aren’t any other requirements or deadlines that you may not be aware of.

• List all of your tasks and bundle them into phases.

Now that you’ve assembled your dates, working backward from your deadlines is a good rule of thumb. List all of the required tasks that must be completed to meet each milestone, from coming up with your research questions to writing each chapter of your dissertation .

Even though your list will be unique to your research project, it can help to refer to a thesis checklist . It’s also helpful to assemble tasks into different phases (e.g., dissertation proposal, research recruitment). Grouping tasks into phases gives anyone looking at your timeline a quick overview of your research plan.

• Organize your tasks into a schedule and assign task deadlines.

Now it’s time to build your timeline. There are many different free templates available online, from straightforward lists of deliverables to colorful options with room for notes and customization.

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A popular organizational approach for thesis timelines is a Gantt chart , which is a type of bar chart often used in project management in which the length of the bar corresponds to the time the task will take. The best choice for you will depend on the specifics of your research study and personal preferences. Whichever option you select, make sure you can easily edit and revise it as need be.

Sanity-Saving Tips:

●  Pay attention to your work style. Some people are more productive when writing in short bursts, while others write better after taking time to get into the zone. Some people choose to start writing parts of their thesis while still conducting research, while others prefer to focus on one phase at a time. Set yourself up for success by reflecting on what type of schedule will help you create the best quality work.

●  Schedule breaks. Almost everyone will work better after a well-deserved break. Make sure to schedule regular breaks into your timeline, as well as provide enough time to sleep, eat well, and do anything else you need to do to safeguard your well-being. 

●  Always have a plan B. Your dissertation is an extensive endeavor with many moving parts. It’s impossible to anticipate and plan for every conceivable event, but it’s helpful to expect something may occur that will cause a deviation from your original timeline. Perhaps study recruitment takes longer than you expected, or one of your committee members gets sick and you have to postpone your dissertation proposal. After you draft your timeline, check that it is not so strict that any disruption will cause a total derailment of your plan. Aim to strike a balance between goals that will inspire you to progress steadfastly and have some leeway in your timeline for the inevitable curveball that life will throw at you somewhere along the way.

Following these three steps will help you draft a timeline to steer the course of your dissertation work: research and record all requirements and deadlines; work backward from your dissertation deadline and assemble your task lists; and organize your tasks into a timeline.

Don’t forget to include ample time for editing and proofreading your dissertation . And if you are interested in any help from us, you can try a sample of our services for free . Best of luck in writing your dissertation!

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Home » How To Write A Research Proposal – Step-by-Step [Template]

How To Write A Research Proposal – Step-by-Step [Template]

Table of Contents

How To Write a Research Proposal

Writing a Research proposal involves several steps to ensure a well-structured and comprehensive document. Here is an explanation of each step:

1. Title and Abstract

• Choose a concise and descriptive title that reflects the essence of your research.
• Write an abstract summarizing your research question, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes. It should provide a brief overview of your proposal.

2. Introduction:

• Provide an introduction to your research topic, highlighting its significance and relevance.
• Clearly state the research problem or question you aim to address.
• Discuss the background and context of the study, including previous research in the field.

3. Research Objectives

• Outline the specific objectives or aims of your research. These objectives should be clear, achievable, and aligned with the research problem.

4. Literature Review:

• Conduct a comprehensive review of relevant literature and studies related to your research topic.
• Summarize key findings, identify gaps, and highlight how your research will contribute to the existing knowledge.

5. Methodology:

• Describe the research design and methodology you plan to employ to address your research objectives.
• Explain the data collection methods, instruments, and analysis techniques you will use.
• Justify why the chosen methods are appropriate and suitable for your research.

6. Timeline:

• Create a timeline or schedule that outlines the major milestones and activities of your research project.
• Break down the research process into smaller tasks and estimate the time required for each task.

7. Resources:

• Identify the resources needed for your research, such as access to specific databases, equipment, or funding.
• Explain how you will acquire or utilize these resources to carry out your research effectively.

8. Ethical Considerations:

• Discuss any ethical issues that may arise during your research and explain how you plan to address them.
• If your research involves human subjects, explain how you will ensure their informed consent and privacy.

9. Expected Outcomes and Significance:

• Clearly state the expected outcomes or results of your research.
• Highlight the potential impact and significance of your research in advancing knowledge or addressing practical issues.

10. References:

• Provide a list of all the references cited in your proposal, following a consistent citation style (e.g., APA, MLA).

11. Appendices:

• Include any additional supporting materials, such as survey questionnaires, interview guides, or data analysis plans.

Research Proposal Format

The format of a research proposal may vary depending on the specific requirements of the institution or funding agency. However, the following is a commonly used format for a research proposal:

1. Title Page:

• Include the title of your research proposal, your name, your affiliation or institution, and the date.

2. Abstract:

• Provide a brief summary of your research proposal, highlighting the research problem, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.

3. Introduction:

• Introduce the research topic and provide background information.
• State the research problem or question you aim to address.
• Explain the significance and relevance of the research.
• Review relevant literature and studies related to your research topic.
• Summarize key findings and identify gaps in the existing knowledge.
• Explain how your research will contribute to filling those gaps.

5. Research Objectives:

• Clearly state the specific objectives or aims of your research.
• Ensure that the objectives are clear, focused, and aligned with the research problem.

6. Methodology:

• Describe the research design and methodology you plan to use.
• Explain the data collection methods, instruments, and analysis techniques.
• Justify why the chosen methods are appropriate for your research.

7. Timeline:

8. Resources:

• Explain how you will acquire or utilize these resources effectively.

9. Ethical Considerations:

• If applicable, explain how you will ensure informed consent and protect the privacy of research participants.

10. Expected Outcomes and Significance:

11. References:

12. Appendices:

Research Proposal Template

Here’s a template for a research proposal:

1. Introduction:

2. Literature Review:

3. Research Objectives:

4. Methodology:

5. Timeline:

6. Resources:

7. Ethical Considerations:

8. Expected Outcomes and Significance:

9. References:

10. Appendices:

Research Proposal Sample

Title: The Impact of Online Education on Student Learning Outcomes: A Comparative Study

1. Introduction

Online education has gained significant prominence in recent years, especially due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This research proposal aims to investigate the impact of online education on student learning outcomes by comparing them with traditional face-to-face instruction. The study will explore various aspects of online education, such as instructional methods, student engagement, and academic performance, to provide insights into the effectiveness of online learning.

2. Objectives

The main objectives of this research are as follows:

• To compare student learning outcomes between online and traditional face-to-face education.
• To examine the factors influencing student engagement in online learning environments.
• To assess the effectiveness of different instructional methods employed in online education.
• To identify challenges and opportunities associated with online education and suggest recommendations for improvement.

3. Methodology

3.1 Study Design

This research will utilize a mixed-methods approach to gather both quantitative and qualitative data. The study will include the following components:

3.2 Participants

The research will involve undergraduate students from two universities, one offering online education and the other providing face-to-face instruction. A total of 500 students (250 from each university) will be selected randomly to participate in the study.

3.3 Data Collection

The research will employ the following data collection methods:

• Quantitative: Pre- and post-assessments will be conducted to measure students’ learning outcomes. Data on student demographics and academic performance will also be collected from university records.
• Qualitative: Focus group discussions and individual interviews will be conducted with students to gather their perceptions and experiences regarding online education.

3.4 Data Analysis

Quantitative data will be analyzed using statistical software, employing descriptive statistics, t-tests, and regression analysis. Qualitative data will be transcribed, coded, and analyzed thematically to identify recurring patterns and themes.

4. Ethical Considerations

The study will adhere to ethical guidelines, ensuring the privacy and confidentiality of participants. Informed consent will be obtained, and participants will have the right to withdraw from the study at any time.

5. Significance and Expected Outcomes

This research will contribute to the existing literature by providing empirical evidence on the impact of online education on student learning outcomes. The findings will help educational institutions and policymakers make informed decisions about incorporating online learning methods and improving the quality of online education. Moreover, the study will identify potential challenges and opportunities related to online education and offer recommendations for enhancing student engagement and overall learning outcomes.

6. Timeline

The proposed research will be conducted over a period of 12 months, including data collection, analysis, and report writing.

The estimated budget for this research includes expenses related to data collection, software licenses, participant compensation, and research assistance. A detailed budget breakdown will be provided in the final research plan.

8. Conclusion

This research proposal aims to investigate the impact of online education on student learning outcomes through a comparative study with traditional face-to-face instruction. By exploring various dimensions of online education, this research will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness and challenges associated with online learning. The findings will contribute to the ongoing discourse on educational practices and help shape future strategies for maximizing student learning outcomes in online education settings.

About the author

Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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How to Create a Dissertation Timeline (With Examples + Tempate)

When it’s time to start thinking about writing your dissertation, it is vital to put together a dissertation timeline. This will help you map out the months you will be spending on your dissertation, and ensure that you’re staying on track. A specific and detailed dissertation timeline will serve as an outline to guide you, step by step, through what can be a long and challenging process. 

While we often refer to a dissertation in a way that makes it sound like a monolith, in reality, a dissertation consists of many moving parts. A dissertation timeline includes a series of milestones that leads up to the dissertation defense , revisions, and final submission of your dissertation. Constructing an outline of every step in the dissertation process , including rough estimates of how long each will take, will give you a realistic picture of where you are in the process at any given time. 

Before embarking on your dissertation, it is a good idea to meet with your dissertation advisor and sketch out a dissertation timeline that is realistic for the size and scope of your project and includes deadlines. This will provide you with much-needed structure and a sense of what will happen next. To get an idea of what a completed dissertation looks like and the components your program requires, ask to see samples from recent graduates in your department. 

These are a few frequently asked questions about crafting a dissertation timeline: 

• What does a dissertation timeline look like?
• What goes in a dissertation timeline? 
• How structured should a dissertation timeline be?
• What do you do with a dissertation timeline? 

What Does a Dissertation Timeline Look Like? 

One way to think about a dissertation timeline is as a kind of outline. While the outlining process is unique to each writer, there are commonalities shared by all of them. Likewise, when writing a dissertation timeline, you’ll want to include all of the basic elements of your dissertation as well as the amount of time you think you’ll need to execute them. 

The best dissertation timeline format is the one that works for you. Though I’ve reformed somewhat over the years, for a long time I wasn’t a fan of intensely detailed outlines. Many people don’t like outlines. And that’s okay! However, writing a dissertation is not the time to be flying by the seat of your pants. To get started, a simple, linear timeline that projects the amount of time you think you’ll need to write your dissertation will suffice. 

Example Dissertation Timeline

Below, you’ll find an example of a dissertation timeline, which you can view as an image in your browser or download as a spreadsheet. Feel free to use the spreadsheet as a template as you build your own dissertation timeline.

Or download the spreadsheet below:

Inclusion in a Dissertation Timeline

When constructing your dissertation timeline, include every element of the dissertation from the abstract to the conclusion. Keep in mind that you may not be writing your chapters in chronological order. For instance, after completing their first round of research and writing their research question, most graduate students will tackle their literature review next, even though it comes after the abstract and introduction in the final document. 

Depending on the field being studied, most dissertations will also include sections for methodology, results, and discussion. Many programs also require a detailed conclusion that alludes to future research possibilities. Every dissertation also has an extensive list of references (pro tip: write this as you’re writing your dissertation), as well as appendices for charts, graphs, and other ephemera. And don’t forget your acknowledgments! 

Dissertation Timeline Structure

The structure of your dissertation timeline will take shape once you’re engaged in the research process. While a road map may seem like an apt metaphor for a dissertation, once you get started you may notice a lot of starts and stops and circling back. After you’ve begun researching, you may realize that you need to allot more time for digging through the databases, or you may discover that you need to reformulate your research question entirely. 

I’ve seen many of my own graduate students use calendars to great effect, giving themselves hard and fast deadlines to meet. Many students also build out their dissertation timelines as they progress, attaching working drafts of their abstract, introduction, and literature review to their timeline within a giant spreadsheet that links to multiple documents and sources. All of these methods are valid. Devise one that works for you. 

Using a Dissertation Timeline

So once you have a thoughtful, soundly-constructed dissertation timeline, what do you do with it? First, and most importantly, try your best to adhere to it. Check in with your dissertation timeline regularly, and use it to keep yourself on track. Also, make adjustments to it as needed. If you find yourself breezing through your preliminary research but needing a bit more time for your literature review, consult your timeline and adjust accordingly. 

While meeting your deadlines is important, also construct your dissertation timeline with an understanding that many graduate students face delays once they start working on their dissertation. These can include hold-ups at the department or university level in the form of late IRB approval or limited lab space or grant funding that gets cut. Anything can happen, but having a dissertation timeline will help you get back on track as soon as the storm passes. 

In my own experience, I also found my dissertation timeline to be a great document to share and discuss with my dissertation chair and committee. Once I finished my comprehensive exams, I met with members of my dissertation committee and got feedback on my rough dissertation timeline to make sure my goals for submitting my dissertation and graduating were realistic. This also ensured that we were all on the same page. 

When writing a dissertation, timing is everything. Creating a dissertation timeline gives you definitive time limits for research and writing, and it also influences several other major decisions that you’ll need to make. These include preparation to go on the job market, which often coincides with writing your dissertation. There is no doubt that this will be a hectic time in your graduate school career, but having a well-organized dissertation timeline is a good way to keep everything in perspective. 

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Courtney Watson, Ph.D.

Courtney Watson, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor of English at Radford University Carilion, in Roanoke, Virginia. Her areas of expertise include undergraduate and graduate curriculum development for writing courses in the health sciences and American literature with a focus on literary travel, tourism, and heritage economies. Her writing and academic scholarship has been widely published in places that include  Studies in American Culture ,  Dialogue , and  The Virginia Quarterly Review . Her research on the integration of humanities into STEM education will be published by Routledge in an upcoming collection. Dr. Watson has also been nominated by the State Council for Higher Education of Virginia’s Outstanding Faculty Rising Star Award, and she is a past winner of the National Society of Arts & Letters Regional Short Story Prize, as well as institutional awards for scholarly research and excellence in teaching. Throughout her career in higher education, Dr. Watson has served in faculty governance and administration as a frequent committee chair and program chair. As a higher education consultant, she has served as a subject matter expert, an evaluator, and a contributor to white papers exploring program development, enrollment research, and educational mergers and acquisitions.

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How to Write a Timeline for a Research Proposal

Harrison pennybaker.

Developing a proper timeline for your research proposal is essential for the process. Writing a research proposal might seem like a daunting and, at times, unending process. However, like any large project, breaking the task down into smaller, more manageable tasks makes the job easier and far less stressful. A timeline can help you plan these tasks. Once you have made basic preparations for your proposal, write your timeline.

Familiarize yourself with the requirements, rules, and procedures of the body or individual for whom you are writing the timeline. If you are writing the plan for yourself, then you set your own parameters; however, if you are writing your research proposal for a granting agency, professor, superior, or institution, then you'll need to be familiar with their requirements, including any relevant deadlines. Take these into account before preparing your timeline. Check if deadlines, requirements, and other formalities are negotiable or flexible.

Determine the total amount of time that you will be carrying out and writing up your research, as well as any specific deadlines that you'll need to meet. This is important for determining the start point and end point of your timeline. Make realistic estimates, and, when in doubt, opt for a longer timeline rather than a shorter one if possible. It's usually better to propose a longer timeline and then come in early than it is to propose a shorter one and come in late.

Determine how many phases, steps, or tasks your project will require, name them, and break them into sub-components, if applicable. Depending on your project, you may have several distinct sections, and these sections may include their own sub-sections. Determining the sections and breaking them into smaller components will allow you to develop a more precise and detailed idea of how much time you will require. It will also help you develop a better working plan, because time management is easier when you know exactly what you are required to do.

Break your phases, steps, or tasks down into time increments appropriate for the length of the project. For instance, if your project involves only four phases and will take two years, break down the steps for your project into monthly increments; for instance, allow six months for research, six months for processing and sorting data, six months for writing the piece, and six months for edits and printing.

Review your timeline as your project unfolds, and, if possible, amend it as required. A timeline is an estimate and plan for the unfolding of a project, but it's useful to keep an eye on it as you progress. Individual deadlines will vary in terms of flexibility, so your timeline management will also vary. Try not to rush just to meet your pre-set timeline if that will sacrifice the quality of your work. Adjust the timeline if necessary.

• 1 Northwest Arkansas Community College: Proposal Development Timeline

About the Author

Harrison Pennybaker began writing in 2004. He has written as a student and a journalist, specializing in politics, travel, arts and culture and current affairs. He holds a Master of Arts in political science and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in political science.

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• How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates

How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates

Published on 30 October 2022 by Shona McCombes and Tegan George. Revised on 13 June 2023.

A research proposal describes what you will investigate, why it’s important, and how you will conduct your research.

The format of a research proposal varies between fields, but most proposals will contain at least these elements:

Introduction

Literature review.

• Research design

Reference list

While the sections may vary, the overall objective is always the same. A research proposal serves as a blueprint and guide for your research plan, helping you get organised and feel confident in the path forward you choose to take.

Table of contents

Research proposal purpose, research proposal examples, research design and methods, contribution to knowledge, research schedule, frequently asked questions.

Academics often have to write research proposals to get funding for their projects. As a student, you might have to write a research proposal as part of a grad school application , or prior to starting your thesis or dissertation .

In addition to helping you figure out what your research can look like, a proposal can also serve to demonstrate why your project is worth pursuing to a funder, educational institution, or supervisor.

Research proposal length

The length of a research proposal can vary quite a bit. A bachelor’s or master’s thesis proposal can be just a few pages, while proposals for PhD dissertations or research funding are usually much longer and more detailed. Your supervisor can help you determine the best length for your work.

One trick to get started is to think of your proposal’s structure as a shorter version of your thesis or dissertation , only without the results , conclusion and discussion sections.

Download our research proposal template

Prevent plagiarism, run a free check.

Writing a research proposal can be quite challenging, but a good starting point could be to look at some examples. We’ve included a few for you below.

• Example research proposal #1: ‘A Conceptual Framework for Scheduling Constraint Management’
• Example research proposal #2: ‘ Medical Students as Mediators of Change in Tobacco Use’

Like your dissertation or thesis, the proposal will usually have a title page that includes:

• The proposed title of your project
• Your supervisor’s name
• Your institution and department

The first part of your proposal is the initial pitch for your project. Make sure it succinctly explains what you want to do and why.

Your introduction should:

• Introduce your topic
• Give necessary background and context
• Outline your  problem statement  and research questions

To guide your introduction , include information about:

• Who could have an interest in the topic (e.g., scientists, policymakers)
• How much is already known about the topic
• What is missing from this current knowledge
• What new insights your research will contribute
• Why you believe this research is worth doing

As you get started, it’s important to demonstrate that you’re familiar with the most important research on your topic. A strong literature review  shows your reader that your project has a solid foundation in existing knowledge or theory. It also shows that you’re not simply repeating what other people have already done or said, but rather using existing research as a jumping-off point for your own.

In this section, share exactly how your project will contribute to ongoing conversations in the field by:

• Comparing and contrasting the main theories, methods, and debates
• Examining the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches
• Explaining how will you build on, challenge, or synthesise prior scholarship

Following the literature review, restate your main  objectives . This brings the focus back to your own project. Next, your research design or methodology section will describe your overall approach, and the practical steps you will take to answer your research questions.

To finish your proposal on a strong note, explore the potential implications of your research for your field. Emphasise again what you aim to contribute and why it matters.

For example, your results might have implications for:

• Improving best practices
• Informing policymaking decisions
• Strengthening a theory or model
• Challenging popular or scientific beliefs
• Creating a basis for future research

Last but not least, your research proposal must include correct citations for every source you have used, compiled in a reference list . To create citations quickly and easily, you can use our free APA citation generator .

Some institutions or funders require a detailed timeline of the project, asking you to forecast what you will do at each stage and how long it may take. While not always required, be sure to check the requirements of your project.

Here’s an example schedule to help you get started. You can also download a template at the button below.

Download our research schedule template

If you are applying for research funding, chances are you will have to include a detailed budget. This shows your estimates of how much each part of your project will cost.

Make sure to check what type of costs the funding body will agree to cover. For each item, include:

• Cost : exactly how much money do you need?
• Justification : why is this cost necessary to complete the research?
• Source : how did you calculate the amount?

To determine your budget, think about:

• Travel costs : do you need to go somewhere to collect your data? How will you get there, and how much time will you need? What will you do there (e.g., interviews, archival research)?
• Materials : do you need access to any tools or technologies?
• Help : do you need to hire any research assistants for the project? What will they do, and how much will you pay them?

Once you’ve decided on your research objectives , you need to explain them in your paper, at the end of your problem statement.

Keep your research objectives clear and concise, and use appropriate verbs to accurately convey the work that you will carry out for each one.

I will compare …

A research aim is a broad statement indicating the general purpose of your research project. It should appear in your introduction at the end of your problem statement , before your research objectives.

Research objectives are more specific than your research aim. They indicate the specific ways you’ll address the overarching aim.

A PhD, which is short for philosophiae doctor (doctor of philosophy in Latin), is the highest university degree that can be obtained. In a PhD, students spend 3–5 years writing a dissertation , which aims to make a significant, original contribution to current knowledge.

A PhD is intended to prepare students for a career as a researcher, whether that be in academia, the public sector, or the private sector.

A master’s is a 1- or 2-year graduate degree that can prepare you for a variety of careers.

All master’s involve graduate-level coursework. Some are research-intensive and intend to prepare students for further study in a PhD; these usually require their students to write a master’s thesis . Others focus on professional training for a specific career.

Critical thinking refers to the ability to evaluate information and to be aware of biases or assumptions, including your own.

Like information literacy , it involves evaluating arguments, identifying and solving problems in an objective and systematic way, and clearly communicating your ideas.

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Top 10 Proposal Timeline Templates with Examples and Samples

Mohammed Sameer

Imagine you're building a house, but you don't have a blueprint to guide you. How confident would you be of constructing a sturdy, functional home? Architectural delights aren’t built just on ideas and thought, these need tangible, actionable plans.  Akin to building structures without blueprints, managing projects without a proposal timeline is Harakiri . A proposal timeline outlines a way to track your plan and ensure the achievement of objectives.

Did you know that without a clear timeline, 43% of projects go over budget? This can be costly and impact your reputation, especially if you're working in a competitive industry. Having a proposal timeline helps you resolve your major pain-points of staying within budget and meeting deadlines.

SlideTeam has compiled a list of the top Proposal Timeline PPT Templates . The 100% customizable nature of the templates provides you with the desired flexibility to edit your presentations. The content-ready slides give you the much-needed structure. Say goodbye to the stress and frustration of manual timeline creation and hello to a professional, effective proposal timeline. Get your hands on these templates today and take control of your project's success!

A proposal timeline is primarily a means of communicating important information regarding a project to stakeholders. Knowing the importance of communication, we have prepared an exclusive collection of the top 50 communication plan templates. Click here to explore.

Template 1: Event Proposal Timeline with Staging Preparation and Budget PPT Design

Presenting our exclusive Event Proposal Timeline PPT Template to help you tackle the challenges of organizing great events. With our pre-built template, you don't have to create a proposal from scratch. Our template offers insights into stage preparation and budgeting, helping you stay organized and on track. With its engaging and persuasive design, this template is perfect for event planners and coordinators looking to impress clients and stakeholders. Download now.

Download this template

Template 2: Event Proposal Showing Timeline and Checklist for Event Planning

Event planning can be a complex and overwhelming process, but it doesn't have to be. It is important that you hold a pre-event meeting at least three to four months before the actual show. Here's our Event Proposal Timeline and Checklist PPT Template to make your event planning journey seamless and stress-free. With its predesigned timeline and checklist, you'll never miss a beat or forget a task. A download of this template can help simplify your event planning process.

Get this template

Template 3: Ten-Day Timeline for Proposal Budget Preparation

Preparing proposal budgets can be intimidating. Our PPT template comes with a predesigned 10-day timeline that guides you through the entire proposal budget process, from setting up meetings to sending the draft proposal to your manager. With sample pointers on preparing a proposal budget, updating the budget as per feedback, and more, you'll have enough information to create a comprehensive and winning proposal budget. Get it now.

Template 4: Office Timeline with Proposal-Phase Design

Simplify your project management with our office timeline using this proposal phase PPT Template. This prebuilt template offers a comprehensive overview of different project phases, including proposal, analysis, design, documentation, review, implementation, testing, and deployment. This template saves you from spending hours creating a timeline from scratch. Download now.

Template 5: SEO Proposal Project Timeline PPT Template

This dynamic template is the ultimate tool for digital marketers and SEO professionals. It has a weekly timeline that highlights key milestones. Our PPT Presentation covers all major elements of an SEO proposal, including Analytics and Keywords, Indexing, Ranking Factors, and Competitor Analysis. This template's engaging and persuasive design will leave a lasting impression on clients and stakeholders. Get it now.

Template 6: Timeline for Corporate Travel Business Proposal PPT Framework

Unleash the full potential of your corporate travel business proposal with our visually stunning PPT Template. Impress clients and stakeholders with a unique timeline that showcases your organization's accomplishments and achievements. Build a clear roadmap to success with our intuitive and easy-to-use timeline that can be tailored to your specific needs. Download now.

Template 7: Product Marketing Campaign Proposal Timeline

Our Product Marketing Campaign Proposal Timeline template is designed to help you plan and execute your marketing efforts with ease. This PPT template comes with a unique six-month timeline that helps you create a well-structured and effective marketing campaign. Whether you're looking to raise brand awareness or promote a new product, this template has the tools you need to succeed. From a clear visual representation of your marketing timeline to detailed descriptions of each stage, this template is the perfect starting point for any product marketing campaign. Get it now.

Template 8: Product Launch Program Proposal Timeline PPT Template

Introducing our exclusive product launch proposal PPT Template that is specifically designed to help you manage your product event launch. These presentation slides focus on product and service management, branding and marketing, and channel management. The clear and concise timeline helps you keep track of all important tasks and deadlines, ensuring that your launch runs smoothly and efficiently. Download it now.

Template 9: Project Timeline for Engineering Consulting Proposal PPT Template

Our Project Timeline for Engineering Consulting Proposal template is the key to presenting a well-structured and professional proposal. This comprehensive PPT template is specifically designed for engineering consulting firms and focuses on the project timeline, making it easier to present complex information in a clear and concise manner. With this PPT Presentation, you can cover integral phases of an engineering consulting project, from project initiation and planning to design implementation and closeout. Download now.

Template 10: Project Timeline for UX/UI Proposal Services

Deploy this PPT Template, specifically designed for UX/UI design services. It focuses on the four key phases of the UX/UI proposal process: discover, define, design, and development support. These presentation slides make it easy to communicate project milestones and deadlines, and the detailed task descriptions ensure everyone is on the same page. Whether you're proposing a new project or presenting progress updates, this template will help you showcase your expertise in UX/UI design and secure the support you need to succeed. Get it now.

Professional Tool to Exhibit Planning

A well-crafted proposal timeline is essential to the success of any project. A clear and concise timeline helps keep everyone on the same page. Our Proposal Timeline PPT Templates offer a powerful solution for businesses and organizations looking to streamline their proposal processes. In today's competitive market, making a positive impression on clients is crucial, and our presentation slides offer a valuable tool for achieving this goal.

FAQs on Proposal Timelines

How do you write a timeline for a proposal.

Here are the steps to writing a timeline for a proposal:

• Determine the scope of the project: Identify the key milestones, tasks, and deadlines for the project.
• Gather relevant information: Collect the information needed to create the timeline, including start and end dates, task descriptions, and any dependencies.
• Choose a format: Decide on the format that will best communicate the timeline to the stakeholders. It can be a project management chart , a linear timeline, or a visual timeline using graphics.
• Create a draft: Using the information collected, create a draft of the timeline and organize the tasks in order.
• Review and refine: Review the draft timeline, refine it if needed, and ensure that it accurately reflects the project schedule.
• Present the timeline: Present the final timeline to the stakeholders, explaining how it fits into the overall project plan.
• Update as necessary: Regularly update the timeline as the project progresses to ensure that everyone is aware of any changes or delays.

Why is a timeline included in a proposal?

A timeline is included in the proposal for the following reasons:

• To show a clear and organized plan: A timeline provides a visual representation of the project plan and the timeline for completing each step. It illustrates the visionary nature of your business. 
• To set expectations: A timeline sets expectations for the project schedule. It signals how a business deals with vendors and customers by having them primed to buy its products and services. Example: Apple is known to be a master of this, resulting in queues at the launch of every new version of the iPhone.
• To demonstrate competence: A well-crafted timeline shows to the proposal's stakeholders that the team has thought through the project plan and has a solid understanding of the timeline for completion.
• To track progress: A timeline serves as a tool for tracking progress and ensuring that the project is on track and that deadlines are being met.
• To manage resources: A timeline can help manage resources, including personnel, finances, and materials, by ensuring that the right resources are available at the right time.

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How to write a research proposal?

Department of Anaesthesiology, Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India

Devika Rani Duggappa

Writing the proposal of a research work in the present era is a challenging task due to the constantly evolving trends in the qualitative research design and the need to incorporate medical advances into the methodology. The proposal is a detailed plan or ‘blueprint’ for the intended study, and once it is completed, the research project should flow smoothly. Even today, many of the proposals at post-graduate evaluation committees and application proposals for funding are substandard. A search was conducted with keywords such as research proposal, writing proposal and qualitative using search engines, namely, PubMed and Google Scholar, and an attempt has been made to provide broad guidelines for writing a scientifically appropriate research proposal.

INTRODUCTION

A clean, well-thought-out proposal forms the backbone for the research itself and hence becomes the most important step in the process of conduct of research.[ 1 ] The objective of preparing a research proposal would be to obtain approvals from various committees including ethics committee [details under ‘Research methodology II’ section [ Table 1 ] in this issue of IJA) and to request for grants. However, there are very few universally accepted guidelines for preparation of a good quality research proposal. A search was performed with keywords such as research proposal, funding, qualitative and writing proposals using search engines, namely, PubMed, Google Scholar and Scopus.

Five ‘C’s while writing a literature review

BASIC REQUIREMENTS OF A RESEARCH PROPOSAL

A proposal needs to show how your work fits into what is already known about the topic and what new paradigm will it add to the literature, while specifying the question that the research will answer, establishing its significance, and the implications of the answer.[ 2 ] The proposal must be capable of convincing the evaluation committee about the credibility, achievability, practicality and reproducibility (repeatability) of the research design.[ 3 ] Four categories of audience with different expectations may be present in the evaluation committees, namely academic colleagues, policy-makers, practitioners and lay audiences who evaluate the research proposal. Tips for preparation of a good research proposal include; ‘be practical, be persuasive, make broader links, aim for crystal clarity and plan before you write’. A researcher must be balanced, with a realistic understanding of what can be achieved. Being persuasive implies that researcher must be able to convince other researchers, research funding agencies, educational institutions and supervisors that the research is worth getting approval. The aim of the researcher should be clearly stated in simple language that describes the research in a way that non-specialists can comprehend, without use of jargons. The proposal must not only demonstrate that it is based on an intelligent understanding of the existing literature but also show that the writer has thought about the time needed to conduct each stage of the research.[ 4 , 5 ]

CONTENTS OF A RESEARCH PROPOSAL

The contents or formats of a research proposal vary depending on the requirements of evaluation committee and are generally provided by the evaluation committee or the institution.

In general, a cover page should contain the (i) title of the proposal, (ii) name and affiliation of the researcher (principal investigator) and co-investigators, (iii) institutional affiliation (degree of the investigator and the name of institution where the study will be performed), details of contact such as phone numbers, E-mail id's and lines for signatures of investigators.

The main contents of the proposal may be presented under the following headings: (i) introduction, (ii) review of literature, (iii) aims and objectives, (iv) research design and methods, (v) ethical considerations, (vi) budget, (vii) appendices and (viii) citations.[ 4 ]

Introduction

It is also sometimes termed as ‘need for study’ or ‘abstract’. Introduction is an initial pitch of an idea; it sets the scene and puts the research in context.[ 6 ] The introduction should be designed to create interest in the reader about the topic and proposal. It should convey to the reader, what you want to do, what necessitates the study and your passion for the topic.[ 7 ] Some questions that can be used to assess the significance of the study are: (i) Who has an interest in the domain of inquiry? (ii) What do we already know about the topic? (iii) What has not been answered adequately in previous research and practice? (iv) How will this research add to knowledge, practice and policy in this area? Some of the evaluation committees, expect the last two questions, elaborated under a separate heading of ‘background and significance’.[ 8 ] Introduction should also contain the hypothesis behind the research design. If hypothesis cannot be constructed, the line of inquiry to be used in the research must be indicated.

Review of literature

It refers to all sources of scientific evidence pertaining to the topic in interest. In the present era of digitalisation and easy accessibility, there is an enormous amount of relevant data available, making it a challenge for the researcher to include all of it in his/her review.[ 9 ] It is crucial to structure this section intelligently so that the reader can grasp the argument related to your study in relation to that of other researchers, while still demonstrating to your readers that your work is original and innovative. It is preferable to summarise each article in a paragraph, highlighting the details pertinent to the topic of interest. The progression of review can move from the more general to the more focused studies, or a historical progression can be used to develop the story, without making it exhaustive.[ 1 ] Literature should include supporting data, disagreements and controversies. Five ‘C's may be kept in mind while writing a literature review[ 10 ] [ Table 1 ].

Aims and objectives

The research purpose (or goal or aim) gives a broad indication of what the researcher wishes to achieve in the research. The hypothesis to be tested can be the aim of the study. The objectives related to parameters or tools used to achieve the aim are generally categorised as primary and secondary objectives.

Research design and method

The objective here is to convince the reader that the overall research design and methods of analysis will correctly address the research problem and to impress upon the reader that the methodology/sources chosen are appropriate for the specific topic. It should be unmistakably tied to the specific aims of your study.

In this section, the methods and sources used to conduct the research must be discussed, including specific references to sites, databases, key texts or authors that will be indispensable to the project. There should be specific mention about the methodological approaches to be undertaken to gather information, about the techniques to be used to analyse it and about the tests of external validity to which researcher is committed.[ 10 , 11 ]

The components of this section include the following:[ 4 ]

Population and sample

Population refers to all the elements (individuals, objects or substances) that meet certain criteria for inclusion in a given universe,[ 12 ] and sample refers to subset of population which meets the inclusion criteria for enrolment into the study. The inclusion and exclusion criteria should be clearly defined. The details pertaining to sample size are discussed in the article “Sample size calculation: Basic priniciples” published in this issue of IJA.

Data collection

The researcher is expected to give a detailed account of the methodology adopted for collection of data, which include the time frame required for the research. The methodology should be tested for its validity and ensure that, in pursuit of achieving the results, the participant's life is not jeopardised. The author should anticipate and acknowledge any potential barrier and pitfall in carrying out the research design and explain plans to address them, thereby avoiding lacunae due to incomplete data collection. If the researcher is planning to acquire data through interviews or questionnaires, copy of the questions used for the same should be attached as an annexure with the proposal.

Rigor (soundness of the research)

This addresses the strength of the research with respect to its neutrality, consistency and applicability. Rigor must be reflected throughout the proposal.

It refers to the robustness of a research method against bias. The author should convey the measures taken to avoid bias, viz. blinding and randomisation, in an elaborate way, thus ensuring that the result obtained from the adopted method is purely as chance and not influenced by other confounding variables.

Consistency

Consistency considers whether the findings will be consistent if the inquiry was replicated with the same participants and in a similar context. This can be achieved by adopting standard and universally accepted methods and scales.

Applicability

Applicability refers to the degree to which the findings can be applied to different contexts and groups.[ 13 ]

Data analysis

This section deals with the reduction and reconstruction of data and its analysis including sample size calculation. The researcher is expected to explain the steps adopted for coding and sorting the data obtained. Various tests to be used to analyse the data for its robustness, significance should be clearly stated. Author should also mention the names of statistician and suitable software which will be used in due course of data analysis and their contribution to data analysis and sample calculation.[ 9 ]

Ethical considerations

Medical research introduces special moral and ethical problems that are not usually encountered by other researchers during data collection, and hence, the researcher should take special care in ensuring that ethical standards are met. Ethical considerations refer to the protection of the participants' rights (right to self-determination, right to privacy, right to autonomy and confidentiality, right to fair treatment and right to protection from discomfort and harm), obtaining informed consent and the institutional review process (ethical approval). The researcher needs to provide adequate information on each of these aspects.

Informed consent needs to be obtained from the participants (details discussed in further chapters), as well as the research site and the relevant authorities.

When the researcher prepares a research budget, he/she should predict and cost all aspects of the research and then add an additional allowance for unpredictable disasters, delays and rising costs. All items in the budget should be justified.

Appendices are documents that support the proposal and application. The appendices will be specific for each proposal but documents that are usually required include informed consent form, supporting documents, questionnaires, measurement tools and patient information of the study in layman's language.

As with any scholarly research paper, you must cite the sources you used in composing your proposal. Although the words ‘references and bibliography’ are different, they are used interchangeably. It refers to all references cited in the research proposal.

Successful, qualitative research proposals should communicate the researcher's knowledge of the field and method and convey the emergent nature of the qualitative design. The proposal should follow a discernible logic from the introduction to presentation of the appendices.

Financial support and sponsorship

Conflicts of interest.

There are no conflicts of interest.

Planning your PhD research: A 3-year PhD timeline example

Planning out a PhD trajectory can be overwhelming. Example PhD timelines can make the task easier and inspire. The following PhD timeline example describes the process and milestones of completing a PhD within 3 years.

Elements to include in a 3-year PhD timeline

The example scenario: completing a phd in 3 years, example: planning year 1 of a 3-year phd, example: planning year 2 of a 3-year phd, example: planning year 3 of a 3-year phd, example of a 3 year phd gantt chart timeline, final reflection.

Every successful PhD project begins with a proper plan. Even if there is a high chance that not everything will work out as planned. Having a well-established timeline will keep your work on track.

What to include in a 3-year PhD timeline depends on the unique characteristics of a PhD project, specific university requirements, agreements with the supervisor/s and the PhD student’s career ambitions.

For instance, some PhD students write a monograph while others complete a PhD based on several journal publications. Both monographs and cumulative dissertations have advantages and disadvantages , and not all universities allow both formats. The thesis type influences the PhD timeline.

Furthermore, PhD students ideally engage in several different activities throughout a PhD trajectory, which link to their career objectives. Regardless of whether they want to pursue a career within or outside of academia. PhD students should create an all-round profile to increase their future chances in the labour market. Think, for example, of activities such as organising a seminar, engaging in public outreach or showcasing leadership in a small grant application.

The most common elements included in a 3-year PhD timeline are the following:

• Data collection (fieldwork, experiments, etc.)
• Data analysis
• Writing of different chapters, or a plan for journal publication
• Conferences
• Additional activities

The whole process is described in more detail in my post on how to develop an awesome PhD timeline step-by-step .

Many (starting) PhD students look for examples of how to plan a PhD in 3 years. Therefore, let’s look at an example scenario of a fictional PhD student. Let’s call her Maria.

Maria is doing a PhD in Social Sciences at a university where it is customary to write a cumulative dissertation, meaning a PhD thesis based on journal publications. Maria’s university regulations require her to write four articles as part of her PhD. In order to graduate, one article has to be published in an international peer-reviewed journal. The other three have to be submitted.

Furthermore, Maria’s cumulative dissertation needs an introduction and conclusion chapter which frame the four individual journal articles, which form the thesis chapters.

In order to complete her PhD programme, Maria also needs to complete coursework and earn 15 credits, or ECTS in her case.

Maria likes the idea of doing a postdoc after her graduation. However, she is aware that the academic job market is tough and therefore wants to keep her options open. She could, for instance, imagine to work for a community or non-profit organisation. Therefore, she wants to place emphasis on collaborating with a community organisation during her PhD.

You may also like: Creating awesome Gantt charts for your PhD timeline

Most PhD students start their first year with a rough idea, but not a well-worked out plan and timeline. Therefore, they usually begin with working on a more elaborate research proposal in the first months of their PhD. This is also the case for our example PhD student Maria.

• Months 1-4: Maria works on a detailed research proposal, defines her research methodology and breaks down her thesis into concrete tasks.
• Month 5 : Maria follows a short intensive course in academic writing to improve her writing skills.
• Months 5-10: Maria works on her first journal paper, which is based on an extensive literature review of her research topic. At the end of Month 10, she submits the manuscript. At the same time, she follows a course connected to her research topic.
• Months 11-12: Maria does her data collection.

Maria completed her first round of data collection according to plan, and starts the second year of her PhD with a lot of material. In her second year, she will focus on turning this data into two journal articles.

• Months 1-2: Maria works on her data analysis.
• Months 3-7: Maria works on her second journal paper.
• Month 7: Maria attends her first conference, and presents the results of her literature-review paper.
• Month 8: Maria received ‘major revisions’ on her first manuscript submission, and implements the changes in Month 8 before resubmitting her first journal paper for publication.
• Month 9: Maria follows a course on research valorisation to learn strategies to increase the societal impact of her thesis.
• Months 9-12: Maria works on her third journal paper. She uses the same data that she collected for the previous paper, which is why she is able to complete the third manuscript a bit faster than the previous one.

Time flies, and Maria finds herself in the last year of her PhD. There is still a lot of work to be done, but she sticks to the plan and does her best to complete her PhD.

• Month 1: Maria starts a second round of data collection, this time in collaboration with a community organisation. Together, they develop and host several focus groups with Maria’s target audience.
• Month 2: Maria starts to analyse the material of the focus group and develops the argumentation for her fourth journal paper.
• Month 3: Maria presents the results of her second journal paper at an international conference. Furthermore, she helps out her supervisor with a grant application. They apply for funding to run a small project that is thematically connected to her PhD.
• Months 4-9: Maria writes her fourth and final journal article that is required for her PhD.
• Month 10: Maria writes her thesis introduction .
• Month 11: Maria works on her thesis conclusion.
• Month 12 : Maria works on the final edits and proof-reading of her thesis before submitting it.

Combining the 3-year planning for our example PhD student Maria, it results in the following PhD timeline:

Creating these PhD timelines, also called Gantt charts, is easy. You can find instructions and templates here.

Completing a PhD in 3 years is not an easy task. The example of our fictional PhD student Maria shows how packed her timeline is, and how little time there is for things to go wrong.

In fact, in real life, many PhD students spend four years full-time to complete a PhD based on four papers, instead of three. Some extend their studies even longer.

Furthermore, plan in some time for thesis editing, which is a legitimate practice and can bring your writing to the next level. Finding a reputable thesis editor can be challenging, so make sure you make an informed choice.

Finishing a PhD in 3 years is not impossible, but it surely is not easy. So be kind to yourself if things don’t work out entirely as planned, and make use of all the help you can get.

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How to write a Research Proposal for Scholarship Applications in 2024

Liberty Okechukwu

April 12, 2024

Research Proposal for Scholarship Applications

If you want to apply for a scholarship, you might be required to submit a thorough research proposal with your application. You will thus be able to learn about research proposals in this post and how to write one for your upcoming scholarship application in 2024.

While some students may use online tutors like Tutor Hunt to learn how to write their research proposal, in this article, I will show you the definition and significance of a research proposal, methods for emphasizing the originality of the research idea, the right length for various scholarships, an explanation of its components, advice on choosing a title, composing an abstract, and conclusion, and a list of helpful software tools.

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These are just a few of the important topics covered in this article. Students pursuing scholarships will find this guide helpful, as it provides comprehensive analysis and useful advice on how to improve their research ideas and raise their chances of acceptance.

Table of Contents

What is a Research Proposal?

A research proposal is a document that provides a research project’s outline. It is used to request funds or a scholarship and to propose a research endeavor. A thorough explanation of the planned study’s significance, methods, and anticipated results should be included in the proposal.

The approach of the Research Proposal

For your research proposal to be unique, you must present a novel idea or approach. This involves:

• Identifying gaps in existing research.
• Proposing innovative methodologies or perspectives.
• Demonstrating how your research can contribute to the field.

What is the ideal length of your research p roposal for scholarship applications?

The length of depends on the kind of scholarship you are applying for. For example:

• Rhodes Scholarship: Up to 1,000 words.
• China CSC Scholarship: Up to 1200 words.
• Fulbright Scholarship: Typically 3-5 pages.
• NSF Graduate Research Fellowship: Around 2-3 pages.

Note that it is important that you follow the guidelines provided by the scholarship body you are applying for.

What are the Elements of a Research Proposal ?

• Title: Brief and descriptive.
• Abstract: A summary of your work.
• Introduction: Background and significance of the study.
• Literature Review: Analysis of existing research.
• Research Questions/Hypotheses: Clear and focused questions or hypotheses.
• Methodology: A detailed description of research methods.
• Ethical Considerations: Address any ethical issues.
• Timeline: A projected schedule for the research.
• Budget: An estimated cost and justification.
• Expected Outcomes: Anticipated results and impact.
• Dissemination Plan: How you will share your findings.
• References: Citing sources used in your proposal.
• Appendices: Any supplementary material.

Read These:

• How to Write a Study Plan for Your Canadian Student Visa
• How to Write a Convincing Study Gap Statement
• How to write an effective scholarship Essay 2024 – With Examples
• How to Write a Winning Statement of Purpose (with samples) ?

How to add citations ?

Citations are essential for acknowledging the sources of your research proposal. Your references can be organized and formatted using programs like Mendeley, EndNote, and Zotero. Consequently, I advise you to familiarize yourself with these programs.

How to select the title?

Your research proposal’s title should sum up your findings clearly and succinctly. It should pique the reader’s curiosity and make the project’s main points apparent.

How to write the abstract and highlights of your Research Proposal?

• Abstract: This is a 150-250 word summary that includes your research question, methodology, and potential impact.
• Highlights: This is a 3-5 bullet point that summarizes the key aspects or innovative elements of your proposal.

How to write the conclusion?

A research proposal should conclude with a summary of the significance of the work, its potential contributions to the field, and the reasons it should be awarded a grant, scholarship, fellowship, or other financial support.

The Best Software for Writing a Research Proposal in 2024

According to Daadscholarship , if you decide to begin writing your research proposal right away, be sure you are proficient with any of the following software programs:

• Reference Management: Zotero, Mendeley, EndNote.
• Writing and Formatting: Microsoft Word, LaTeX.
• Data analysis (if applicable): SPSS, R, Python.
• Project Management: Trello, Asana.

Overall, having a strong research proposal is essential to getting funding or scholarships for your education. It calls for a solid methodology, a clear grasp of your research objectives, a comprehensive literature evaluation, and the capacity to convey your thoughts. You can improve your chances of writing a proposal that sticks out in the crowded field of academic scholarships by adhering to these principles.

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How to Create a Timeline in Excel (Free Templates Included)

Excel is a versatile spreadsheet tool that can create a variety of graphs, charts and forms, including timelines for projects. In this blog, we’ll go through each step needed to create a timeline in Excel and explain the advantages and disadvantages of doing so.

Why Should You Create a Project Timeline in Excel?

Learn how to create a timeline that can be used to visualize how tasks or projects will be executed over time, identify who will be responsible for completing them and identify milestones and deliverables. The best part is that it’s helpful for any type of team or organization that’s executing a plan regardless of its industry.

Once you create this Excel project timeline, you can use this template to estimate future project timelines using project tasks and due dates. Templates are extremely helpful in creating and executing a successful project, so we encourage you to download our free Excel timeline template below.

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Timeline Template

Use this free Timeline Template for Excel to manage your projects better.

Even though Excel can be helpful in some scenarios, the platform can only do so much. Static timelines are only a weaker version of a collaborative Gantt chart which is an integral project management tool. If you’re looking for best-in-class timelines, ProjectManager has award-winning Gantt charts that populate data in real time.

Use ProjectManager’s Gantt chart to plan projects, define phases, link tasks, build a WBS, set a baseline and link all four types of task dependencies. Since everything is online, it’s easy to collaborate with your team as the project progresses. You can import an Excel file and get started in a matter of minutes. Get started with ProjectManager today for free and build a better timeline.

How to Create a Project Timeline in Excel

Creating a timeline in Excel using this method takes only five simple formatting steps and doesn’t require any formulas or complicated Excel features. This Excel timeline was created using Excel for Microsoft 365.

1. Define the Length of the Timeline

First, think about the best scale for the timeline. For this example, we’ll make a timeline that spans over one year. To start, list all the months of the year horizontally as shown below. Then merge all the cells above them and write the year for your timeline. Then select all the cells that were just edited and add a border to them.

2. Create Rows for Assigning Work to the Team

Now, edit the column on the left side of the monthly timeline, which will be used to list tasks or projects and indicate who will execute them .

In this case, we’re creating a timeline for a business that needs to map the projects that each of its business departments will execute over a year, but instead of business departments, one can write the names of their team members, too.

Next, format all the cells on the right side of the column that was just created. To do so, start by merging the columns next to the first row and then merge them by clicking the “Merge & Center” button at the top of the screen.

Now, select the merged cell, click the format painter button and then select all the cells as directed below. This automatically formats the cells as the one above.

Edit the borders and after completing those steps, the timeline should look like this.

3. Add a Row for Tracking Milestones and Deliverables

Now create a row for tracking milestones and deliverables by right-clicking the top cell in the work assignment column, clicking insert and selecting “Entire row.”

Once you insert this new row, adjust its height. We suggest using a cell height of at least 100 pixels so you can add a marker for each milestone and deliverable and write a description.

4. Make a Task List and Add Task Bars

Once done formatting the timeline, it’s time to start mapping tasks or project plans. In the example below, we’ll use the Excel timeline to visualize a project that the product team will execute, which is to develop the new product called “XYZ.”

That project is intended to start at the beginning of January and should be completed in mid-May. So, we’ll need to create a bar that shows the project duration in the Excel timeline by inserting a shape and then adjusting its size by holding the left-click button.

Repeat this process to add all the projects or tasks to the timeline. Then, identify milestones and deliverables to get a summarized view of all the key events from all the projects or tasks in the timeline.

5. Mark Milestones and Deliverables

We’ll use shapes again to identify when milestones and deliverables will be delivered, but instead of bars, we’ll need a marker like an arrow. For our example, we’ve used the pentagon arrow.

Then add some text to explain what the deliverable or milestone is. In this case, the milestone is that the new product has gone through all the stages of product development and testing and is ready to be launched into the market.

Continue to edit the timeline in Excel by color coding projects or tasks, such as assigning a different color for each team or individual who will be executing the work.

Excel Timeline Template

As stated above, you can also download a free Excel timeline template. It was created using the same process we’ve just gone through. On top of that, this template offers six-month, one-year, three-year and five-year Excel timelines that can be used for planning short, medium and long-term projects for a team or organization.

Advantages of Making a Timeline in Excel

As we’ve explained, the main reasons for using Excel to make a timeline are that it only takes a few steps and Excel is a software that most people are familiar with. But there are some other advantages of learning how to make a timeline in Excel using our method.

• Create a timeline that works similarly to a Gantt char t or a milestone chart
• Make a timeline in Excel from scratch and it can be customized to fit the particular characteristics of a project
• Excel timelines are simple to understand, which makes them a good addition to project documentation such as project plans or project proposals

However, while Excel templates can be helpful for project and business management, they have their limitations, too.

Disadvantages of Making a Timeline in Excel

The main disadvantage of making a timeline in Excel is that Excel isn’t a project planning or time management tool and therefore lacks the features needed to create and track a timeline for professional purposes such as managing your business operations or managing a project.

• Excel files don’t allow for online collaboration with team members
• When changes are made to the timeline an updated copy of that timeline must be sent to all team members, which makes them hard to share
• Lacks features that Gantt chart software like ProjectManager offer, such as task dependency mapping, critical path analysis or cost tracking
• Any changes to the project timeline require a labor-intensive process

More Free Project Scheduling Templates for Excel

Other tools can be used to create a timeline, which is why we’ve created dozens of free project scheduling templates for Excel and Word to help with the process of creating a timeline.

Gantt Chart Template

This free Gantt chart template for Excel automatically generates a visual timeline with a stacked bar chart based on a list of project tasks, their estimated duration and due dates.

Project Calendar Template

Project calendars are familiar to most people and offer another popular way of making a timeline. Our free project calendar template helps visualize how tasks and projects span over time and can be color-coded.

Resource Plan Template

Creating a timeline for a project or business requires estimating the time it will take to complete tasks and achieve objectives. In addition, knowing resources, such as raw materials, people and equipment, is necessary to execute that work. This free resource plan template can list all project resources and specify when they’re needed.

Using ProjectManager Is Better Than Creating a Timeline in Excel

ProjectManager is award-winning project management software equipped with all the tools needed to create a project timeline. These features include Gantt charts, kanban boards, project calendars, dashboards and much more. Here are some reasons why ProjectManager is better than making timelines in Excel.

Plan, Schedule and Track Timelines With Powerful Gantt Charts

Gantt charts are the most important project management tool because they can be used for planning, scheduling and tracking the timeline of any type of project or process. They map tasks in a visually stacked bar chart that shows the whole project on one screen. However, not all Gantt chart makers offer the same features as ProjectManager, which combines a user-friendly interface with advanced project planning features such as critical path analysis, task dependency mapping, resource monitoring, cost tracking and timesheet management.

Manage All Key Areas of Projects

The main advantage of using ProjectManager over a simple Excel timeline is that it allows organizations to manage other areas of plans besides timelines. For example, use ProjectManager to estimate the progress of projects, identify risks, estimate the costs of project resources and then use online project dashboards to compare those estimates against the actual cost of your project in real time. In addition, it’s easy to make a variety of project management reports and timesheets in minutes.

Related Content

Making a timeline is very important for the success of a project, no matter how big or small. For this reason, we’ve created dozens of blogs, templates and guides to help anyone master this process. Here are some of them.

• Project Timeline Software – Create a Project Timeline Online
• Gantt Chart vs. PERT Chart vs. Network Diagram
• How to Make a Gantt Chart In Excel Step-By-Step

ProjectManager is online project management software that delivers real-time data to help you better monitor and track your project timelines. Choose between a variety of tools to schedule your projects such as Gantt charts, kanban boards, task lists and project calendars and then use live dashboards and dynamic reporting to keep stakeholders informed. If you want to streamline your processes and work more efficiently, try ProjectManager for free today . 

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ASPIRE 2024 Joint Call "Japan-Germany Quantum Technologies"

16 April 2024

ASPIRE 2024 Joint Call for Proposals “Japan-Germany Quantum Technologies”

The Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) and Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG), are jointly accepting proposals for research projects in the field of “Quantum Technologies”.

This call will be on quantum technologies for ultrafast and massively parallel information processing, quantum communications, improved quantum measurement technology, and cutting edge quantum sensors and materials. The joint call aims to support internationally competitive collaborative research projects in Quantum Technologies, create sustainable international networks among leading researchers in the field, and to nurture future research leaders.

Proposals submitted to JST and DFG will be jointly evaluated, and adopted projects will be jointly supported: Japan based research teams will be supported by JST; German based research teams will be supported by DFG.

Research Field and Scope

Research related to quantum computers and quantum technology in general, including on quantum materials with innovative functionality, which contributes to the realization of a productivity revolution. Examples: Quantum technology contributing to ultra-high-speed parallel information processing, quantum communication, higher-performing measurement technology, higher-performance materials, etc.

• I. Discovery- inspired projects The bioengineered cells and systems The bio-inspired design theme The novel materials theme
• II. Cross-cutting research & technologies

For more information, please refer to Section 2. "Aim of Joint Call and Scope" and Appendix 1 of the Call Text.

An informational online session about the call for Japan based applicants will be held at the following date and time:

Date and Time: 26 April, 2024, 16:00-17:30 JST Format: Zoom *Pre-registration is required. Link to pre-registration

Program (tentative): 1. Opening and ASPIRE PD/PO introduction 2. Overview of the JST-DFG joint call 3. Call scope and evaluation perspectives 4. Q&A session

Scale of Support

JST will fund Japan based researchers up to 380 million JPY per project (up to 500 million JPY including 30% overhead expenses), from the start of the project to the end of March 2029.

DFG will fund German based researchers up to 1.650,000 € per project, plus 22 % of indirect costs.

Around two projects will be funded under this call.

Eligibility

• Japan based researchers should be conducting research at a research institution (university, independent administrative institution, public experimental research institution, public-interest corporation, or company) within Japan. Please note that multiple applications to JST ASPIRE 2024 Call for Proposals and the Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED) ASPIRE 2024 Call for Proposals will not be accepted.
• German based researchers should follow DFG regulations. Please refer to "Individual Research Grants" of DFG website for further details.
• Each project proposal must have at least two eligible research teams: one team (at least) in Japan and one team (at least) in Germany.

The schedule for the submission and review of the research proposals for this joint call is as indicated in the table below. Interviews will be held for those applicants who pass the document review. Applicants who proceed to the interview stage will be notified of the date and time on an individual basis.

Please note that the schedule (except the application deadline) is subject to change.

*Applicants will be notified by email at least two weeks before the interview date.

Proposal Submission

Please read the Call Text and Application Guidelines「公募要領別紙」carefully before applying.

• The Japan and the German team will need to submit their applications by parallel submission, using the designated application form (Japan-Germany Quantum Technologies_form.docx) to draft a joint proposal in English and submit it to the application websites of their respective countries.
• Each research team in each country shall be led by a PI who is also responsible for submitting the required consortium application documents to JST/DFG.
• The PI in Japan and Germany should ensure that there are no differences in the content of the proposals submitted in the designated application form to Japan and Germany.
• If applicants do not submit the required documents to both JST and DFG by the deadline, the proposal shall not be accepted.

Application Form

• The Japan based PI must have completed the designated online research ethics course prior to application. Please refer to the Application Guidelines for details on enrollment in the research ethics education program. Failure to complete the program will result in the proposal being rejected as incomplete.
• If the research institutions are a national or municipal organizations, the institutions concluding research contracts are obliged to implement necessary budgetary measures before entering research contracts for which they are responsible. Please confirm with your institution and contact JST before submitting your proposal.

Prior Notice (recommended)

We advise the PI based in Japan to send a prior notice to JST regarding the proposal to be submitted by Friday, June 14, 2024, using the template below:

• To： aspire-de(at)jst.go.jp (replace (at) with @)
• Subject (in Japanese)：「事前連絡_（機関名）_（氏名）」
• Research Project Title (Tentative)
• Japan-based Principal Investigator / Institution and Department Name
• Germany-based Principal Investigator / Institution and Department Name

Inquiries for Japan based Applicants

Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) Department of International Affairs

ASPIRE Coordination Group

aspire-de(at)jst.go.jp (replace (at) with @)

Apply now for the 2024-25 ISCE PREP Program Cohort

17 Apr 2024

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From: The Institute for Society, Culture, and Environment

The Institute for Society, Culture, and Environment is offering the  P reparing your  R esearch for an  E xtramural  P roposal program for a cohort of faculty members in the  social sciences  who are planning to submit a research grant proposal to a federal agency (e.g., NIH, NSF, NEH) for funding in the next year. The program is intended for faculty who are relatively new to the proposal writing process, or whose prior proposals for which they have served as PI or a co-investigator have not been funded, but who are actively pursuing an externally funded research agenda. Faculty selected for the program will receive ISCE funding to support activities related to the development of their proposal and mentoring to prepare the proposal to be submitted no later than August 2025.

ISCE plans to grant up to six awards, each totaling up to $10,000. Click here to learn more .

Deadline: May 30

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