Template
Research proposal template that supervisors can actually review.
A clear, section-by-section structure for your research proposal: with prompts that help you make decisions, not just fill blanks. Use the free outline below, or get the editable Proposal Builder Kit.
Free proposal outline
- Background and rationale: what is known, in 3–4 paragraphs grounded in current sources.
- Problem statement: population, place, gap, why it matters.
- Objectives and questions: one general aim, 3–4 specific objectives, matched research questions.
- Conceptual framework: concepts, relationships and assumptions, with a diagram.
- Methods: design, setting, participants, sampling, instruments, procedures.
- Sample size and justification: formula, assumptions, source.
- Data analysis plan: per-objective, with software.
- Ethics: risks, benefits, consent, confidentiality, REC route.
- Work plan and budget: Gantt, line-itemised costs.
- References and appendices: instruments, consent forms, CVs.
Frequently asked
Questions researchers ask
- What does this proposal template include?
- Sections for background, problem statement, objectives, conceptual framework, methods, sample size justification, ethics, work plan and budget: each with brief guidance.
- Is it suitable for a Master's or PhD?
- Yes. It is structured for postgraduate research and adapts well for grant and concept-note submissions too.
- Can I edit the template?
- Yes. The Proposal Builder Kit includes editable Word and PowerPoint versions you can adapt to your institution's format.
- Will this write my proposal for me?
- No. It gives you a strong structure and prompts so that what you write is clearer and easier to review. Your thinking is still required.
- Does it follow Ugandan or East African ethics requirements?
- Yes. Section prompts align with common requirements at Ugandan and regional research ethics committees, including UNCST.
Next step
Build your problem statement first
Most proposals fall over because the problem statement is weak. Start there.
ContinueEthical use: Use this template to organise your own thinking. Do not paste in writing produced by others or by an AI tool without rewriting it in your own words and citing your sources.