Skip to Main Content

Course Assignments

What is a proposal?

A proposal is a clear, organized plan that introduces an area of need or project idea and includes the details needed to address the issue or complete a project.  A proposal clearly outlines the steps, details, recommendations, and other pertinent information needed to fully address the area of identified need.

Main parts of a proposal

While there are different types of proposals (e.g. research, business, conference, etc.), here is a general format to follow:

Looking for information for business proposal? Check out our FAQ: How do I write and present a business proposal? - FAQS (libanswers.com)

Introduction

This is where you establish the background of the issue and reference any past discussions, experience, or any other relevant information to the problem or proposed project.  Be sure to keep the introduction clear and concise.

Areas of Need

This section of your proposal needs to outline in detail the area(s) that need addressing.  For example, if you see a need for further education in your unit, clearly outline the problem areas you noticed.  You need to make it clear you have a complete understanding of the situation, so your reader will understand there are real issues that need addressing.

Recommendations

In this section, clearly and logically outline the recommendations you have to address the issue(s).  If you feel further education is needed in a particular area, clearly outline what education is needed and why.  This is the section that will require you to be persuasive.  In other words, really "sell" your recommendations to ensure you get approval for your proposal.

Details

Here is where you outline the cost, timeline, logistics, required staff, required technology, and any other relevant information you need to share regarding your plan.  Do not include in-depth information here - you can include this information in appendices.  See the section Additional Information below.

Summary

Be sure to recap important points, stress that your plan benefits all parties involved, and call out any action items.  It is important to drive home why this issue is important to address the issue sooner rather than later.

How do I know I have written an effective proposal?

After you have written your proposal, you can use this checklist to ensure you've met the mark:

  • Will it meet the needs of all involved?
  • Does the introduction generate interest and clearly describe the purpose of the proposal?
  • When sharing the area(s) of need, are you providing a clear picture of the need(s)?  Are you providing clear links between the need(s) and the recommendations? 
  • Are your recommendations clear and specific?  Do you address how these recommendations will benefit all involved?  Do you provide evidence or proof?
  • If costs are involved, do you clearly justify them?  
  • Does your summary clearly tie up loose ends?  Do you have a specific call to action?
  • Are your appendices needed and complete?