For most researchers, writing a draft of any type is fraught with challenges, but when it comes to writing your research proposal can be just as challenging, especially if you are working on an important topic and finding your next job depends on it. So, before I dig into some tips and things to try, let’s talk about why this task is so difficult for many researchers. Here’s the list:
• You may not have your own lab space or resources (i.e., your office or computer).
• Your research could change as your project evolves.
• It’s hard to convince hiring managers your application shows evidence of your skills.
• There could even be competition from other applicants.
• The topic you’re researching might be too broad and there are numerous issues you aren’t addressing.
• You need to demonstrate the relevance and value of your work to attract funding.
• When doing research, it’s much easier to be ambitious than to be realistic.
• Writing the research proposal is like trying to get yourself promoted at all times.
• If you don’t stick to the outline, you’ll end up wasting time.
• Trying to fit everything on one piece of paper makes reading what you’re looking at more confusing.
• Some parts can feel awkward, especially because you’ve got them from different sources. • Don’t forget about formatting!
• Even though you’ve already done some of your projects during your course, it might be better to keep some separate files for your thesis file, bibliography file, etc.
Use of Language:
As far as my personal experience goes, writing a dissertation was my worst nightmare. My hands were shaking, my mind spinning out of control, and I felt hopeless at every turn. I’ve only written a couple of research proposals over the years, and I’m okay with that. Now that I know how to write a well-researched and well-written report, I think I’d want anyone who wants to start to look into making their research more professionally done. Not necessarily with fancy language, but rather using clear and simple language.
Consistency:
One thing they both need in terms of writing is consistency. Let’s face it, writing is such a unique skill that we can get into trouble if we don’t have clear structures and proper grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
One of my first jobs during my grad program was teaching kids English class. There were four students in each group of four teachers, and none of us were able to speak English. But our teachers kept insisting we go back to our native languages since they wanted to keep us engaged in the lesson. With that mindset, it’s great how students learned how to read, write, and speak English, and they’re still learning all these things. We should all do the same thing, right? Well maybe we shouldn’t, of course, but we also don’t want to leave the classroom. That’s why you really need consistency in your writing.
If we all follow some consistent writing style, then we get better results and become effective educators. I think if you really want to be effective and to prove that you’re good at anything, the best tool is consistency.
