COMPONENTS

OF A
RESEARCH
PROPOSAL

Introduction, Methodology, and

References
INTRODUCTION
What is introduction?
 The introduction contains the background of the study, its potential
significance, contribution to existing knowledge, and its scope and
limitations.
 The introduction to a research paper can be the most challenging
part of the paper to write.
 Well-written introductions sets the tone for the paper, catch the
reader's interest, and communicate the hypothesis or thesis
statement.
 A good introduction
must provide answers to
the following questions:
1. What is the research problem?
2. How important is the problem? What is the potential impact of being able to
resolve the problem ?
3. How extensive is the work done in the line with the purpose of resolving this
problem?
4. What are the key issues and concerns that are still unanswered?
5. Is your research problem is the next logical step? What are your expectations and
the anticipated results form this proposed study?
6. What problems would you like to resolve?
7. What would be the scope of your proposed study? (This goes back to testing the
research problem and objectives if they meet the SMART criteria)
8. What are the limitations of the study? How will this affect its outcome? Are the
limitations reasonable enough if you compare them with those of other studies?
9. How do you address the research problem? (You may mention a brief description
of the methods.)
How to Write a
Research
Introduction
Part One of Three:
Introducing the Topic of the Paper

1. Announce your research topic

2. Consider referring to key words
3. Define any key terms or concepts
4. Introduce the topic through an anecdote or
quotation
Part Two of Three:
Establishing the Context of Your
Paper

1. Include a brief literature review

2. Use the literature to focus in on your
contribution
3. Elaborate on the rationale of your paper.
Part Three of Three:
Specifying Your Research Questions
and Hypothesis

1. State your research questions

2. Indicate your hypothesis
3. Outline the structure of your paper
METHODOLOGY
REFERENCES
What is references?

 A comprehensive list of references is highly important in your

proposal as it will strengthen your argument by demonstrating
traceability.
 Reviewers will be able to confirm the rationale for your research
question/ problem.
 A strong research proposal is built on the strength of your
citations.
EXAMPLES