Research proposals

If you are applying to undertake a research degree or a degree with a research component at ANU, or are in the first year of your research degree, you may be expected to produce a research proposal that demonstrates that you understand the process of scholarly inquiry. In particular, that 'good' research starts with you identifying an important problem or 'gap' in knowledge in your field and/or discipline that you can address or fill.

These pages provide strategies to help you to establish your credibility as a scholar by developing a persuasive research proposal. A persuasive research proposal sets out what you intend to conduct research on, why and how you plan to go about operationalising it, and how you make a contribution to knowledge. More specifically, these pages detail the various stages involved in designing a research project from understanding the purpose of a research proposal to what to consider in writing one. 

Purpose>>

Useful resources

• Agee, J. (2009). Developing qualitative research questions: A reflective process. International Journal of Qualitative Studies in Education, 22(4), 431-447. doi:10.1080/09518390902736512
• Paltridge, B., & Starfield, S. (2007). Thesis and dissertation writing in a second language: A handbook for supervisors. London: Routledge.
• Punch, K.F. (2006). Developing effective research proposals (2nd ed.). London: Sage.