So, you’ve sussed out how long a PhD takes, and know you’ve got the time, space, support and dedication to take it on. You’ve identified an area of research that you’re passionate about and also have an idea to add new knowledge to the field. Moreover, you’ve got in touch with Charles Sturt’s research support team to connect with a suitable supervisor who’ll guide you through this, frankly, transformative journey. What next? Well, it’s time to lay out your ideas. It’s time for your research proposal. The question is: how to write a PhD research proposal?

We’re going to break it down for you.

Understanding a research proposal

Firstly, what is a research proposal exactly? Well, think of it as the map for your PhD. It’s the detailed plan of your intended research. It outlines the problem/challenge/idea you wish to investigate, the methods you’ll use to conduct your enquiry, and the significance of your study.

And that’s the thing with doing a PhD: it needs to be significant. So your research proposal must demonstrate not only a deep understanding of the topic but also a facility to contribute original knowledge to the area of study you’re interested in.

We’re talking changing the world here, people.

Put simply, a well-crafted research proposal is your chance to show that you have the intellectual ability and research skills to successfully undertake a PhD. It should show your enthusiasm for the subject, your familiarity with the relevant literature, and your ability to undertake rigorous and independent research.

How to write a PhD research proposal: preparation

Like most things in life, a research proposal will benefit from solid groundwork. Here are some of the key steps to take before putting pen to paper.

1. Identify your research topic: Choose a topic that is both interesting and viable. It should fill a gap in the existing knowledge in your field and be feasible within the time frame and resources available. Start with a brainstorm, progress to some preliminary reading and talk to people in your field to get their thoughts.

2. Conduct a literature review: Surveying the existing research helps you to understand the current state of knowledge in your field and, consequently, identify gaps that your research could fill. This ensures that your proposal builds on a solid foundation of existing knowledge.

3. Define your research question and objectives: Clearly state what you aim to investigate and why it matters. Your research question should be specific, focused, and researchable. Your objectives should outline the specific goals of your research and what you hope to achieve.

4. Consult with your adviser: Ask for feedback on your ideas from your adviser. That’s what they’re here for! Regular discussions can provide valuable input into refining your ideas and crafting a cohesive proposal.

Research proposal structure

Structuring your research proposal well helps others understand your intentions, and demonstrates the clear thinking and disciplined application you’ll need when it comes to putting your plan into action. So here are some of the key sections to include in your research proposal.

Title page

Include the title of your research project – make it descriptive and concise – as well as your name, the department and university you are studying at, and the date that you’re submitting your proposal for consideration.

Abstract

Think of your abstract as the elevator pitch for your research proposal: if you had just a brief flight in a lift to tell someone about what you’re going to do, what would you say? Keep it around 250–300 words and provide a brief summary of the research idea, objectives and methodology.

Introduction

Present the background of your research topic. Explain the broader context and why your research is needed. Clearly define the problem or question your research aims to address, and state your main research objectives and how they’ll contribute to the field. Remember: make your objectives specific and achievable.

Literature review

Here’s where you summarise the key studies related to your topic. This shows that you are familiar with the existing body of knowledge. Then explain the gaps in the current knowledge that your research will address. This justifies the need for your study. Moreover, highlight what makes your study unique and significant

Research methodology

Here’s where you move from the what and why to the how. Specify whether you will use qualitative, quantitative or mixed methods of research. Describe the overall approach you will take to answer your research question, how you will gather data, and how you will analyse the information you collect.

Timeline

Provide a detailed timeline of your research activities, from data collection to analysis and writing and submission. Set clear milestones and also deadlines for each phase of your research. This section shows that you have a realistic plan to complete your research on time.

References

List all scholarly works cited in your proposal. Also ensure you follow the appropriate citation style for your university (at Charles Sturt, most of our schools use the American Psychological Association referencing style).

Appendices (if applicable)

Include any supplementary materials, such as questionnaires, interview guides or detailed methodologies that will provide additional context and support for your proposal.

How to write a PhD research proposal – tips and best practice

When it comes to writing a research proposal, clarity and conciseness are your best friends. Avoid jargon or getting bogged down in excessive detail. Keep each section well-structured and to the point. However, clarity doesn’t mean casual; use a formal, academic tone in your writing. Ensure your writing is coherent and also structured in a logical way. Good academic writing communicates complex ideas clearly and precisely. So proofread it. Then proofread it again. And a third time. Get someone else to proofread it. Then do it again yourself. Each time you’ll improve the quality of your proposal and see things that need revising to make it stronger. And – at the risk of sounding like a broken record – get feedback from your adviser. And then get more. They’re here to help, because they want you to succeed.

Got a unique idea for a research proposal?

Reach out to our dedicated research team. They’ll help connect you with suitable supervisors, answer any questions you have and also be your invaluable support crew as you navigate your research project.