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Research Proposal Checklist

Our proven proposal checklist, written from a reviewer's view. Free to use. Instant access.

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What this checklist covers

A run through everything a proposal needs to convince a reviewer of, the same ten sections refined helping 10,000+ students get theirs approved:

Title and introduction: a real problem, and a visible gap.
Research questions and objectives: specific and connected.
Literature review: brief, but showing the gap and your fit.
Research methodology: design, sampling, collection, analysis.
Theoretical framework: why it fits, and how it shapes your method.
Ethical considerations: the issues, and how you’ll handle them.
Timeline and budget: if required, whether yours is realistic.
Significance and impact: why the study is worth approving.
Compliance and quality control: word count, formatting, citations.
Final review: the last pass before submission.

The checklist can be copied to your Google Drive or downloaded as a fully editable document, so you can tick items off as you go.

Frequently asked questions

Why does it check for future tense specifically?

Because a proposal describes research you’re about to do. The Compliance item checks it’s written consistently in future tense (“I will interview,” not “I interviewed”), easy to slip out of when drafting from an old chapter.

Is a budget required for every research proposal?

No, it’s marked “if applicable.” Funded projects will usually need one; a standard academic proposal at many universities won’t.

Where does the research gap get established?

Earlier than you might expect: Title and Introduction asks you to articulate the research gap right at the start, not just in the literature review section further down.

How long should the literature review section be?

The checklist doesn’t give a number, only “brief but comprehensive,” covering the key studies, theories and gaps. Check your university’s own proposal format for specifics.

Does it ask about impact beyond my own field?

Yes: Significance and Impact asks you to articulate the potential impact on theory, practice, or policy.

What level of study is this checklist meant for?

It’s written for a research proposal at honors, master’s or doctoral level, whether it’s going to a supervisor, a department, or a funding body.

What format is the checklist?

It’s a Google Doc. Make a copy to your own Drive to edit it, or download it as a fully editable file if you’d rather work offline.

Can I share this checklist with my friends/colleagues?

Yes, you’re welcome to share it in its original format (no editing allowed). If you post about it on your blog or social media, please reference this page as your source.