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Difference Between Research Proposal and Research Report

research-proposal-vs-research-report

On the other hand, a research report is the culmination of the research endeavour. It is a great way to explain the research work and its outcome to a group of people. It is the outcome of the study conducted at the time of the research process.

This article will help you understand the difference between research proposal and research report.

Content: Research Proposal Vs Research Report

Comparison chart.

Basis for ComparisonResearch ProposalResearch Report
MeaningResearch proposal refers to a brief and cogent synopsis of the proposed research in a written form.Research Report refers to a document that systematically, coherently and methodically presents the research work in a written form.
Written inFuture TensePast Tense
PreparationAt the beginning of the projectAfter the completion of the project
LengthShortComparatively long
Deals withProblem or topic to be investigated.Results of the completed research work.
DeterminesWhat will be researched, why the research is important and how the researched will be conducted?What is researched, what sources are used to collect data, how the data is collected, what are the findings, what are the recommendations for future research?
ChaptersIntroduction, Literature Review, Research MethodologyIntroduction, Literature Review, Research Methodology, Results, Interpretation and Analysis, Conclusion and Recommendation

Definition of Research Proposal

Research Proposal can be defined as the document prepared by the researcher so as to give a description of the research program in detail. It is typically a request for research funding, for the subject under study. In other words, a research proposal is a summary of the research process, with which the reader can get quick information regarding the research project.

The research proposal seeks final approval, for which it is submitted to the relevant authority. After the research proposal is submitted, it is being evaluated, considering a number of factors like the cost involved, potential impact, soundness of the plan to undertake the project.

It aims at presenting and justifying the need and importance to carry out the study, as well as to present the practical ways, of conducting the research. And for this, persuasive evidence should be provided in the research proposal, to highlight the necessity of the research.

Further, it must discuss the main issues and questions, which the researcher will address in the study. Along with that, it must highlight the fundamental area of the research study.

A research proposal can be prepared in a number of formats, which differs on the basis of their length. It contains an introduction, problem hypothesis, objectives, assumptions, methodology, justification and implication of the research project.

Definition of Research Report

Research Report can be defined as the document in which the researched and analysed data is organized and presented by the researcher in a systematic manner. It is a publication, comprising of the purpose, scope, hypothesis, methodology, findings, limitations, recommendations and conclusion of the research project.

Simply put, a research report is the record of the research process. It is one of the most important segments of the research, as the research work is said to be incomplete if the report is not prepared.

A research report is a document containing collected and considered facts, taken to provide succinct and comprehensible information to people.

Once the research process is over, the entire work is produced in a written material, which is called a research report . It covers the description of the research activities, in an elaborated manner. It contains Introduction, Literature Review, Methodology, Data Collection, Data Analysis, Discussion of Results and Findings, Bibliography and Appendices.

A research report acts as a method to record the research work and its outcome, for future reference.

Key Differences Between Research Proposal and Research Report

The difference between research proposal and research report is discussed as under:

  • A research proposal signifies a theoretical framework within which the research is carried out. In finer terms, a research proposal is a sketch for the collection, measurement and analysis of data. A research report implies a scientific write-up on the research findings, which is prepared in a specific format.
  • While the preparation of a research proposal is considered as the first step to research work, preparation of a research report is the final step to the research work.
  • A research proposal is prepared at the beginning of the project. In contrast, the research report is prepared after the completion of the project
  • A research proposal is written in the future tense, whereas the tense used in the research report is past tense, as well as it is written in the third person
  • The length of a research proposal is about 4-10 pages. On the contrary, the length of the research report is about 100 to 300 pages.
  • The research proposal is concerned with the problem or topic to be investigated. Conversely, the research report focuses on the results of the completed research work.
  • The research proposal determines what will be researched, the relevance of the research and the ways to conduct the researched. As against, the research report determines what is researched, sources of data collection, ways of data collection (i.e. survey, interview, or questionnaire), result and findings, recommendations for future research, etc.
  • Research Proposal includes three chapters i.e. Introduction, Literature Review, Research Methodology. Contrastingly, Research Report covers the following chapters – Introduction, Literature Review, Research Methodology, Results, Interpretation and Analysis, Conclusion and Recommendation.

Basically, a research proposal defines the planning stage of the research work, which is prepared in written format, to know its worth. On the other hand, the research report signifies the concluding stage of the research work.

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tha’s good

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Good.it help students nurses in Ghana

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well explained in a summarized way.

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Difference Between Research Proposal and Research Report

The Research Proposal is the way a researcher presents the research problem and communicates the need for research. It is a crucial part of the application process. It provides a brief overview of the research questions the researcher is trying to answer. It also outlines the research methodology that the researcher will use.

Definition of a Research Proposal

A Research Proposal is a document that the researcher creates to describe the research program in detail. This is usually a request for funding for the subject being studied. A research proposal, in other words, is a summary or description of the research process that provides quick information about the research project.

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The purpose of the proposal is to justify the necessity and importance of the study and to show the practical methods for conducting it. To demonstrate the necessity of the research, the proposal should contain persuasive evidence.

Definition of Research Report

Research Report is the document that organizes and presents the data collected and analyzed. It’s a publication that includes the purpose, scope, and hypothesis of the research project, as well as the methodology, findings, limitations, recommendations, and conclusion.

The research proposal outlines the scope of research, its relevance and the methods to be the used. The research report,the  on the other hand, determines the scope of the research, data sources, data collection methods (i.e. Survey, interview, questionnaire), results and conclusions, as well as recommendations for future research.

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What is the Difference Between Research Proposal and Research Report?

Research proposal and research report

When it comes to academic or scientific, quantified research, there are several steps writers need to be aware about before diving head-first into the hypothesis. There is a rhyme and a reason for these steps, and they are mostly to make the student aware of the process and to gather and organize ideas, thoughts, and examples in an efficient manner. One common mistake students make when writing research projects is mixing up their research proposal and research report. Of course, both of them are closely related to the research itself.

What is a research proposal?

The proposal step of research precedes the actual research itself. This is the stage where a student should outline in detail what questions they will explore and analyze. As a preparation stage, the research proposal is presented at the beginning of the research project with the aim of justifying the need for a deeper analysis and probing into the question or hypothesis. The proposal outlines the methods that will be used to carry out the research and the design of the research to ensure that the results are reliable and efficient. 

What is a research report?

Similar to the proposal, the research report is a crucial role in the entirety of a research project. The research report is presented after the research has been conducted already. This can be seen as a post-report stage, as it analyses the information and results of the research and summarizes the student’s findings. The aim of a research report is to critically analyze the proposed hypothesis or questions as well as the results of said research. In some cases, this will be called a thesis or dissertation – a major assignment for college and university students trying to achieve their degree. 

So, how can I write them?

The aims of the research proposal and report are relatively different, so the content of each one will also vary to a certain degree. What’s most important is that the research is supported and recognized.

Inside of a Research Proposal

The proposal lays out many steps and ideas before conducting the research – so it is essential to have a structure or outline that matches with the results you will be looking for. Typically, a good research proposal is five to seven pages long, or 2,000 words or more.

The proposal outline will include:

  • Title – a title should be straightforward and clear at first glance
  • Background Information – this includes issues related to your proposed research, as well as the rationale behind the research. It should also include literary sources that will be used to reference from, or maybe where the proposed question or hypothesis derived from. If the topic is widely discussed, there can also be a summary of the topics discussed and the ongoing developments happening at the moment. 
  • Research Questions – the main part of the research project, the question is what you will be doing research on. It serves as a starting point from where students can branch off into other problems and issues that may arise during the research step. This segment can change based on the information you gather pre-research. 
  • Methodology – this outlines the process of the research and the resources students will need to conduct the research. It should include the theoretical framework – or how the research will be approached and if they are appropriate for the proposed questions. Theoretically, it should include possible limits of the research and the advantages of the predicted outcome. 
  • Plan of work – This segment details the amount of time needed to conduct the research and a detailed outline of the schedule to complete the research. Its essential to understand the scope of the project and to set a date to have the research completed in order to analyze the information at the appropriate time. 
  • Bibliography – just like any academic writing, a bibliography lists the references students will use for the research and a handful of resources at their disposal during the research process. 

Inside of a Research Report

The research report is the golden egg of the research – it provides the results and information students will be searching for. The report comes post-research and serves as the dissertation or thesis that is a deeper analysis of the information. 

The research report will include:

  • A Cover Sheet – this provides the reader all the information about the writer and the proposed topic.
  • An abstract – a basic summary of the report itself, the abstract includes the sample size of research, the treatment of the research, the design of the research, and the implications of the research. This is not meant to be longer than a page – just a briefing on the proposed research before diving into the deep analysis. 
  • Introduction – this stretched beyond the information in the abstract and should include supportive statistics and the purpose and the significance of the research in the scope of a community or the globally. This prepares the reader with the information needed to follow the research steps and the reasons why these steps were taken. 
  • Research questions – the hypothesis should be presented in this segment, outlining a broader idea and moving towards specific and detailed questions. There should be a large distinction between the quantitative-based questions, and the qualitative-based questions here, to make things more clear for the reader to follow. Students should have more than one hypothesis to be considered a well-conducted research project, as it widens the scope and the purpose of the research. 
  • Review of literature – the resources used to conduct the research should be present here. This qualifies the research done and supports it with evidence from literature related to the topic itself. It should be able to refute evidence and support the main ideas. The sources should be linked together so as to provide synthesis.  
  • Method and Results – The methods used during the research period should be detailed at this segment – mentioning the samples, the setting, the treatment, and the data analysis. The results should also be described in details, again differentiating between quantitative and qualitative results.
  • Discussion – the final aspect of the research project includes an open discussion about the work done. It should restate the hypothesis and check to see if it was correct or incorrect and see why. It should also include the limitations of the study – and maybe reasons why it turned out to be correct or incorrect. The discussion should be wrapped up with a conclusion and a closing summary of the entire research project. 

If students are about to embark on the journey of a research project, it’s essential to know and understand the stages involved so that the process will move along much smoother. 

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Comparison chart, content focus, primary audience, research proposal and research report definitions, research proposal, research report, who reads a research proposal, what is a research proposal, can a research proposal guarantee funding, what does a research report include, what is the main goal of a research proposal, when is a research report prepared, is a literature review included in a research proposal, what happens if a research proposal is approved, do research proposals need ethical approval, what differentiates a research report from a proposal, how detailed should a research proposal be, are research reports always published, how long is a typical research report, do research reports require peer review, is a research report subjective or objective, can a research report influence future studies, what role does methodology play in a research proposal, are research reports accessible to the general public, can a research proposal be rejected, are conclusions part of a research report.

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Research Proposal vs Research Report: Main Differences

September 3, 2019 by studymumbai Leave a Comment

Research Paper

Research Proposal and Research Report are two terms that often confuse student researchers. Even though they might sound similar, there is a difference between the two, and the main difference is the period when it has to be produced during the course of the research work.

Main difference between the two:

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  • A research proposal describes the proposed research and research design. What and how is the student planning to do? It describes what the researcher intends to do in his/her research study.
  • A research report describes the completed research, including the findings, conclusion, and recommendations. It basically describes the whole research study

When is it to be submitted?

  • A research proposal is written before the collection and analysis of data (basically before the main body of work begins).
  • A research report is submitted after the competition of the whole research project (after most of the work is completed).

Main Sections A research proposal usually contains the following segments/sections:

  • Introduction (provide the context/background)
  • Literature Review (what literature already exists in that area)
  • Research Methods and Methodology (how are you going to collect the data)
  • Research question (What question are you trying to answer)
  • Aims and Objectives (various objectives of the research)
  • List of Reference

A research report will have all the sections listed above, but it will also include additional sections such as:

  • Findings (of the research)
  • Analysis (of the research)
  • Conclusions (of the research)
  • Shortcomings (observed)
  • Recommendations (suggested)

Because of the additional sections, Research reports tend to be longer than research proposals .

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Bradley Kay's blog

The key difference between a research proposal and a research report.

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Research is a very important part of college and work success. However, you must know the difference between a research plan and a research report if you want to be successful. We'll examine the main differences, goals, frameworks, and writing styles for these two types of academic papers

what is the similarities between research proposal and research report

Research Proposal: What It Is and Why It's Important

The first step in any research project is to write a research paper. It is a piece of writing that describes the subject of your study, its goals, and the methods that will be used. Its main goal is to convince and educate. Research proposals are like the plans that an architect uses to make a house.

It can look like a very hard thing to write. Feel free to order the research proposal writing service Edubirdie to write your student paper. There is no shame in getting some leisure time once in a while. So that you get enough time to relax.

Research Report: What It Is and Why It's Important

On the other hand, a study report comes after the research has been done. It's an in-depth report that includes the study results, methods, analysis, and conclusions. A research report's main goal is to share the study results with others and add to what is already known. It's like the finished building—what the study led to in the end.

The main differences between these two styles

There are important differences between a research plan and a research report. To begin, think about their jobs. Research plans are persuasive papers that encourage research projects. Research reports update readers about study findings.

The time is another important difference. Research begins with an idea, and the report provides the results. Reports are reactive, while proposals are aggressive.

The structure and format

It's essential to know the structure and framework. In your paper, you should include an introduction, a literature study, research goals, and a method in a research plan. The research report, on the other hand, has an introduction, methods, data, a talk, and a conclusion. The literature review isn't as in-depth compared to scientific ones. On the other hand, a book study relies more on a plan. The reason is that you need to show the reason why you spent your precious time analyzing some old book and why anyone should bother to read it.

How to Write Guidelines

These two types of research papers have quite different writing styles that you should account for. Most of the time, research plans are more formal and persuasive. They want to show a reviewing committee why the study is important and possible. Research papers, on the other hand, are clear and objective. You just share the facts and findings.

Examples of Research Proposals

Looking at some examples of research proposals and research reports will be beneficial for you to understand how you should write your paper. Let's say a researcher wants to look into how teens' use of social media affects their mental health. It will be very clear in the proposal how they plan to do the study, why it is important, and what method they will use.

Example of a Research Report

A research report would show the real results of the same research project after the data had been gathered. It would talk about the study's findings, break them down, and draw a conclusion from the data gathered.

Ethics Things to Think About

It's important to know the basis and framework. There should be an introduction, a literature study, research goals, and a method in a research plan. While the research report has an opening, methods, data, a final speech, and an end, the research brief does not. It's not as in-depth in the literature study. It is more important to have a book study in a plan because it helps show why the research is important.

  • Look over and approve

Your educational facility might look over a study report to make sure that the data collection was done honestly. So, you need to discuss criteria in the future. So, there is no miscommunication in the future

  • Mistakes People Make

Humans are not ideal creatures, so there are a lot of possibilities to make mistakes in plans and reports. Some ideas aren't clear, aren't specific enough, or don't have a good literature review. The way the data were studied could be flawed, and the reports could give you the wrong idea of what the results mean.

  • Getting ready to collect data

This includes getting resources, finding participants, and getting all necessary clearances to conduct proper research

  • Getting and analyzing data

There are different ways to gather information for plans and reports. What are proposals and reports? Reports outline data collection methods and instruments, while proposals represent data collection strategies.

  • Presenting the Results

Another important difference is presenting results. Research plans don't show the results themselves; instead, they describe how the results will be shown in the future. On the other hand, research papers give specific results to the people who are supposed to read them.

it is beneficial for researchers, teachers, and students should know the difference between a research plan and a research report. Nonetheless, it will be beneficial to understand the nuances. I hope that this material gave you all the necessary information and now you have a clear understanding of the differences between research proposals and research reports

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DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PROPOSAL, RESEACH & REPORT

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Each and every year, thousands of students graduate from different colleges and universities, but before they graduate they had to present their graduation projects, so Good Proposal writing, submitting and presenting has always been the concern for many students in academic arena, especially for final year students, because students can't graduate without submitting their graduation project. However, this paper highlights very briefly what a proposal is all about, meaning and definition, steps to following when writing proposal, what is a research, characteristics of research, difference between research and proposal, different between research and report, the steps to follow when writing report as well as proposal, finally the paper presents practical guide for writing project proposal.

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Priscila Leal , Betsy Gilliland

what is the similarities between research proposal and research report

moawia A alshiek

After more than a decade of teaching the course of research skills, I believe that the need for reference works on proposal writing for students and researchers is an essential handout. Not only to acquire the ability to write successful researched proposals but also to share my experience with them. The purpose of this review is to screen research skills literature to identify how and why proposals are written. Ultimately, to provide a document that guides students and researchers to write an effective proposal for their research projects. I found following accredited proposal guidelines will help to produce an effective successful document. However, there is no one single format but general template. Every institution, journal or funding agency has its own format. But all have this sequence: introduction, objectives, methodology, workplan, budget, references and annexes. 1) Background: There is no single formula for a strong effective proposal. There are a number of precepts that are consistently found in successful proposals. The sooner one learns them, the better. (1) When a social scientist desires to conduct an experiment, he first develops a proposal. The proposal introduces the problem, the significance of a study as well as the experimenter's research question and hypothesis. It also gives a brief explanation of the theory guiding the study, a review of relevant literature pertaining to the theory, and the procedure for the experiment. (2) The goal of a research proposal is to present and justify the need to study a research problem. As well as, to show design elements and procedures for conducting the research. It goes without saying the proposal must provide persuasive evidence that a need exists for the proposed study. (3)

IJSRP Journal

A Research Design is the arrangement of conditions for collection and analysis of data in a manner that aims to combine relevance to the research purpose with economy procedure. Research Design is needed because it facilitates the smooth sailing of the various research operations. Tools for data collection method, to give the result and testing hypothesis, my paper deals with the steps involve in Research Design, Need of Research Design, and Characteristic of Research Design, Features of Research Design, and the tools and techniques of data collection method. Report writing is a presentation of facts and findings. After collecting and analyzing the data, the researcher has to accomplish the task drawing Interference followed by report writing. This has do very carefully, otherwise misleading conclusion may be drown and the whole purpose of doing research may be violated. In this paper I had clearly sketch the outline of report writing from title to end page and also our sample of title page.

Radina Mohamad Deli

Given the importance of writing skills for communicating messages in the field of engineering, and the seemingly perpetual conflict between novice engineers " poor ability to write and the quality expected by employers, it is worthwhile to investigate student engineers " writing ability or experiences prior to their employment. This study thus aims to investigate English as a Second Language (ESL) students " writing in engineering studies. The objectives of the study are to (1) identify the genres of writing by ESL undergraduates in engineering studies, and (2) analyse students " laboratory reports for " moves " typically identified in the genre. Students " written scripts were collected from various engineering courses within the mechanical, electrical, and electronic engineering programmes of a Malaysian public university, and identified by genre based on their structure and content. The preliminary finding suggests that the majority of the writings are laboratory and technical reports. Based on a " move " analysis outlined for student laboratory reports in science and engineering (Parkinson, 2017) a total of 14 laboratory reports was analysed and 5 macro-sections were identified namely introduction, method, result, discussion, and conclusion. This differs from the 6 macro-sections found for engineering in Parkinson (2017) study. Although the number of moves identified was essentially similar, some steps were unavailable in the laboratory reports within these macro-sections. It is believed that findings from this genre-based study can have pedagogical importance in that it may help to enhance the writings of ESL students in engineering studies to reach a standard that may be more aligned to the accepted norms of laboratory report writing. Contribution/ Originality: This study contributes in the existing literature by detailing common " moves " found in ESL student writing of laboratory reports in the engineering field. Most analyses of moves for similar written genres in the engineering discipline have focused on the writings of native speakers of English.

TRISNA AMELIA

Biology Seminar is a course in Biology Education Study Program of FKIP UMRAH that requires students to have the ability to apply scientific attitudes, perform scientific writing and undertake scientific publications on a small scale. One of the learning strategies that can drive the achievement of learning outcomes in this course is Research-Based Learning. Research-Based Learning principles are considered in accordance with learning outcomes in Biology Seminar courses and generally in accordance with the purpose of higher education. On this basis, this article which is derived from a qualitative research aims at describing Research-based Learning on Biology Seminar course. Based on the research, it was known that Research-Based Learning on Biology Seminar courses is applied through: designing learning activities around contemporary research issues; teaching research methods, techniques and skills explicitly within program; drawing on personal research in designing and teaching courses; building small-scale research activities into undergraduate assignment; and infusing teaching with the values of researchers.

Mîna Florina

Ali Algaddafi

39th Southwest Educational Research Association (SERA), New Orleans

Genç Osman Ilhan

Comics reflect a story with pictures, speech bubbles and movement figures. They are the choice of entertainment for both the adults and children, a means of communication for the authors, and the medium to improve the activity of learning for educators. They are used in literacy (Rapp, 2012), mathematics (Brozo, 2013), language (Cary, 2004), health education (Branscum & Sharma, 2009), and primary education (Rota & Izquierdo, 2003). Comics has been found advantageous and their positive effects in education have been outlined. Comics have been encouraged to be used in education as they reflect the features of the era in an authentic way, provide an enjoyable way of learning to the students, contribute to students’ vocabulary, improve students’ creativity, and provide enhancing and permanent ethical teachings (Carr, 1958). The start of comics use in education started almost three years after the release of comic books in 1935 (Sons, 1944). However, the remind of the popularity of this type of genre which lost its popularity in 1950s in education was after 2000s although it was used as a reading material in 1990s (Pelton, Pelton & Moore, 2007). Unfortunately, it is difficult to find an empirical process of analysis about teaching with comics that could often be found in health education (Cary, 2004). Teaching with comic books have occurred in the fields of reading (Rapp, 2012) and language education (Cary, 2004) with the use of comic books as an ordinary book. The history-reflective and informative features of comic books have been neglected this way and the benefits of comic books in education have been decreased. In addition, the use of comic books in teacher education has been investigated; however, this investigation was only limited to mathematics teaching (Herbst, Chazan, Chen, Chieu & Weiss, 2011). Moreover, comics generator applications have been designed and it has been made easier to create comics of one’s own. This way, it has become much easier for teachers to generate their own comics and use a material much more beneficial than the other visuals. Comics have been found more advantageous over other visuals, as they involve visual, communicative and movemental components (Morrison, Bryan & Chilcoat, 2002). Regarding the progress of comics in technology and its advantages, it would not be mistaken that comics might be used intensively in education in the upcoming years. However, a review study of comics use in education has not been found. Thus, this study is thought to be a guide for the instructors and academicians as it aims to analyze the studies about comic books in education as a review study. This way, the direction of comics use in the history of education could be outlined and suggestions could be made for the future users and researchers of comics use in education. This study was designed as a review study and it was started with the scan of studies about the use of comics in education from past to today by using the educational databases. Although many studies were found about comics, only articles as a publication type under the topic of comics use in education were the target of this study. Review studies are regarded significant for the advance of knowledge about an issue (Webster & Watson, 2002). Review studies analyze and group studies made in an area or about a subject, and reach some suggestions or insights about the issue under the light of reached information (Kay, 2012). While constructing and operating this study, the features of the articles were identified and they were grouped. The grouped articles will be analyzed according to their subject areas, databases, methodologies, results and effects.

Stella Atter

Arulsamy Savarimuthu

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What'S The Difference Between A Project And A Research Project?

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However, the main difference is that while an academic research proposal is for a specific line of research, a project proposal is for approval of a relatively smaller enterprise or scientific scheme; most often, project proposals are written with the intent of obtaining support in the form of budget penalties and permission to devote time and effort to the chosen project. Here it must be remembered that the forms, procedures and principles of academic research proposals are much more rigorous than for project proposals; it goes without saying that even the standard is much more demanding than in the project proposals. 

While format, length, and content may vary, the overall goal of academic research proposals and project proposals remains the same: approval by supervisors, academic committees, or reviews . This article will discuss the complexities of academic research proposals and project proposals, thereby helping readers understand the differences between the two. The following steps describe a simple and effective research paper writing strategy.  You will most likely start your research with a working, preliminary, or preliminary thesis, which you will refine until you are sure where the evidence leads. The thesis says what you believe and what you are going to prove. Good thesis statement distinguishes a thoughtful research project from a mere review of the facts. A good experimental thesis will help you focus your search for information. 

Before embarking on serious research, do some preliminary research to determine if there is enough information for your needs and to set the context for your research. Now that the direction of your research is clear to you, you can start searching for material on your topic. Choose a topic on which you can find an acceptable amount of information.  People wishing to publish the results of a quality assurance project should read this guide. Worksheets for assessing whether a quality assurance activity is also exploratory The following are two worksheets to help researchers determine whether to consult with the IRB before starting a quality assurance project. 

The main similarity between a thesis and a research project is that both can be inserted as academic papers. To understand the difference between a thesis and a research project, it is necessary to understand the similarities between the two terms. A dissertation is much more thorough than a research project; is a collection of various studies carried out in the field of study, which includes a critical analysis of their results. It aims to present and justify the necessity and importance of conducting research, as well as to present practical ways of conducting research. In addition, he should discuss the main issues and questions that the researcher will raise during the course of the study. Take on a topic that can be adequately covered in the given project format. A strong thesis is provocative; takes a stand and justifies the discussion you present. 

It contains the introduction, problematic hypothesis, objectives, hypothesis, methodology, rationale, and implications of the research project. The information collected during the study culminates in an application document such as policy recommendations, curriculum development, or program evaluation. The purpose of a design study is to collect information that will help solve an identifiable problem in a specific context. The purpose of design research is not to add to our understanding of research on a topic. The key difference between design research and a dissertation is that design research does not start from a research problem. The main difference between a terminating project and a thesis is that a terminating project addresses a specific problem, problem, or problem in your field of study, while a dissertation attempts to create new knowledge. The final project focuses on a narrow and specific topic, while the dissertation addresses a broader and more general issue. 

The main difference between projects and programs is usually that projects are designed to produce results while programs are designed to achieve business results. Obviously, there are some similarities between projects and programs, namely that they are both interested in change, i.e., in creating something new, and both require the use of a team to achieve a goal. To make the difference between project and programme more concrete, let's look at a practical example of the difference between project and programme. But to understand the difference, you need to start by understanding the definitions of projects and programmes. In a project portfolio, each project is responsible for managing multiple projects. The figure also highlights the differences between the project management level and the program and portfolio. 

Program Managers Project Managers Program Managers create the overall plans that are used to manage projects. Project management has a defined timeline with a defined deliverable that determines the end date. The program manager defines the vision, which is especially important when he oversees several projects at the same time. Program managers need to think strategically, especially as they often have to negotiate between different organizations and sometimes between multiple projects interacting over a program. Indeed, some of these projects can be so large and complex that they are programs in their own right. Thus, our software projects will only be one of the projects controlled by the program. Project Report Research Report Mainly focuses on achieving the desired outcome of the project. The focus is on providing information derived from data and problem analysis. A project report, as the name suggests, is simply a report that provides useful and important information to make better business decisions and also helps in project management. 

Conversely, a research report defines what is being sought, sources of data collection, how data is collected (for example, a research report focuses on the results of a completed research work. The research proposal has been submitted, evaluated, taking into account a number of factors, such as the associated costs , potential impact, soundness of the project implementation plan This is usually a request for research funding on the subject of study.  Instead, the research report is prepared after the project is completed. The research proposal is written in the future, the time used in the research report is past because it is written in the third person. Research proposals are approximately 4-10 pages in length. On the other hand, research consists of proving the main thesis backed up by evidence and data. Originality and personal research are important components of a dissertation. This dissertation engages the student in stimulating or provocative research and shows a level of thinking that opens up new horizons. Researching and writing an article will be more enjoyable if you are writing about something interesting. 

Source:  https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/top-5-best-essay-writing-service-reviews-comparative-study-167031

https://www.we-heart.com/2022/08/30/5-best-personal-statement-writing-services/

what is the similarities between research proposal and research report

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Concept Paper vs. Research Proposal – and when to use each

By charlesworth author services.

  • Charlesworth Author Services
  • 08 March, 2022

On the surface, concept papers sound like they do the same job as a research proposal – and essentially, they do. Both are designed to communicate the rationale, methodology and outcomes of a proposed piece of work. The difference between the two lies mostly in the level of detail and the potential audience, based on which your approach towards writing each will vary. In this article, we dig deeper into these and recommend when to use which.

Concept paper: Putting your idea to paper

  • What : A concept paper verbalises an idea and puts it to paper for the first time. Here, an overall rationale is presented, with a focus on the essential idea and potential impact of the expected outcome(s). However, what you would not include here is much in-depth detail.
  • When : Writing a concept paper is most useful when an initial expression of interest is made to either a collaborator or funder – provided the funder has mechanisms for you to do this, like an open call.
  • Why : The aim of your concept paper will be to win your audience over with your idea and its potential ramifications. 

(For more on concept papers, read: Understanding and developing a concept paper )

Research proposal: Showing how things will get done

Let’s say that through your concept paper, you find funding and collaborators for your proposed research project. You will now get into the nitty gritty of the project with a research proposal, while still keeping it “consumable” enough for a broader audience.

  • What : A research proposal builds on a concept paper by now including aspects like key deliverables, milestones and specific outcomes, as well as how you plan to achieve these. 
  • When : You will typically send a research proposal to sources of funding of an open nature, i.e. those that do not require a standardised form to be filled in, as is often the case with institutional internal funding or private investors.
  • Why : It is not necessary for you to first send someone a concept paper and follow it up with a proposal. However, you may often need to follow this sequence in order to provide only ‘need to know’ material depending on the stage of your relationship with potential partners.

( For more on research proposals, read: Writing a successful research proposal )

what is the similarities between research proposal and research report

When both are needed, a concept paper precedes a research proposal

Deciding between a concept paper and a research proposal

Whether you send someone a concept paper or a research proposal depends entirely on two things: 

  • Your existing relationship with whomever you are reaching out to
  • What you are trying to achieve

If you are emailing an organisation or individual for the first time, you are more likely to receive a response by attaching a brief, snappy concept paper that is easily read by a multitude of people. On the other hand, some larger organisations, such as pharmaceutical companies, are very used to seeing full-fledged research proposals and may have a portal on their website where you would need to upload one, enabling them to skip the preliminary step of vetting your work through a concept paper.

Our recommendation : Given how pressed many people are for time these days, it would be prudent to send concept papers more frequently than research proposals. If more information is required, you will be asked for it.

Concept papers and research proposals do very similar things, but set out and achieve very different aims. They are often sent in sequence – the concept paper first, followed by the research proposal. The need for a research proposal arises when the concept paper has achieved its mark – when, for example, more information is required for a funding decision to be reached, or due diligence is to be performed, as a result of your concept paper gaining preliminary acceptance. Following up with a research proposal fills in the gaps and will aid in answering questions arising from the concept paper.

Read previous (second) in series: Writing a successful Research Proposal

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what is the similarities between research proposal and research report

What (Exactly) Is A Research Proposal?

A simple explainer with examples + free template.

By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | June 2020 (Updated April 2023)

Whether you’re nearing the end of your degree and your dissertation is on the horizon, or you’re planning to apply for a PhD program, chances are you’ll need to craft a convincing research proposal . If you’re on this page, you’re probably unsure exactly what the research proposal is all about. Well, you’ve come to the right place.

Overview: Research Proposal Basics

  • What a research proposal is
  • What a research proposal needs to cover
  • How to structure your research proposal
  • Example /sample proposals
  • Proposal writing FAQs
  • Key takeaways & additional resources

What is a research proposal?

Simply put, a research proposal is a structured, formal document that explains what you plan to research (your research topic), why it’s worth researching (your justification), and how  you plan to investigate it (your methodology). 

The purpose of the research proposal (its job, so to speak) is to convince  your research supervisor, committee or university that your research is  suitable  (for the requirements of the degree program) and  manageable  (given the time and resource constraints you will face). 

The most important word here is “ convince ” – in other words, your research proposal needs to  sell  your research idea (to whoever is going to approve it). If it doesn’t convince them (of its suitability and manageability), you’ll need to revise and resubmit . This will cost you valuable time, which will either delay the start of your research or eat into its time allowance (which is bad news). 

A research proposal is a  formal document that explains what you plan to research , why it's worth researching and how you'll do it.

What goes into a research proposal?

A good dissertation or thesis proposal needs to cover the “ what “, “ why ” and” how ” of the proposed study. Let’s look at each of these attributes in a little more detail:

Your proposal needs to clearly articulate your research topic . This needs to be specific and unambiguous . Your research topic should make it clear exactly what you plan to research and in what context. Here’s an example of a well-articulated research topic:

An investigation into the factors which impact female Generation Y consumer’s likelihood to promote a specific makeup brand to their peers: a British context

As you can see, this topic is extremely clear. From this one line we can see exactly:

  • What’s being investigated – factors that make people promote or advocate for a brand of a specific makeup brand
  • Who it involves – female Gen-Y consumers
  • In what context – the United Kingdom

So, make sure that your research proposal provides a detailed explanation of your research topic . If possible, also briefly outline your research aims and objectives , and perhaps even your research questions (although in some cases you’ll only develop these at a later stage). Needless to say, don’t start writing your proposal until you have a clear topic in mind , or you’ll end up waffling and your research proposal will suffer as a result of this.

Need a helping hand?

what is the similarities between research proposal and research report

As we touched on earlier, it’s not good enough to simply propose a research topic – you need to justify why your topic is original . In other words, what makes it  unique ? What gap in the current literature does it fill? If it’s simply a rehash of the existing research, it’s probably not going to get approval – it needs to be fresh.

But,  originality  alone is not enough. Once you’ve ticked that box, you also need to justify why your proposed topic is  important . In other words, what value will it add to the world if you achieve your research aims?

As an example, let’s look at the sample research topic we mentioned earlier (factors impacting brand advocacy). In this case, if the research could uncover relevant factors, these findings would be very useful to marketers in the cosmetics industry, and would, therefore, have commercial value . That is a clear justification for the research.

So, when you’re crafting your research proposal, remember that it’s not enough for a topic to simply be unique. It needs to be useful and value-creating – and you need to convey that value in your proposal. If you’re struggling to find a research topic that makes the cut, watch  our video covering how to find a research topic .

Free Webinar: How To Write A Research Proposal

It’s all good and well to have a great topic that’s original and valuable, but you’re not going to convince anyone to approve it without discussing the practicalities – in other words:

  • How will you actually undertake your research (i.e., your methodology)?
  • Is your research methodology appropriate given your research aims?
  • Is your approach manageable given your constraints (time, money, etc.)?

While it’s generally not expected that you’ll have a fully fleshed-out methodology at the proposal stage, you’ll likely still need to provide a high-level overview of your research methodology . Here are some important questions you’ll need to address in your research proposal:

  • Will you take a qualitative , quantitative or mixed -method approach?
  • What sampling strategy will you adopt?
  • How will you collect your data (e.g., interviews , surveys, etc)?
  • How will you analyse your data (e.g., descriptive and inferential statistics , content analysis, discourse analysis, etc, .)?
  • What potential limitations will your methodology carry?

So, be sure to give some thought to the practicalities of your research and have at least a basic methodological plan before you start writing up your proposal. If this all sounds rather intimidating, the video below provides a good introduction to research methodology and the key choices you’ll need to make.

How To Structure A Research Proposal

Now that we’ve covered the key points that need to be addressed in a proposal, you may be wondering, “ But how is a research proposal structured? “.

While the exact structure and format required for a research proposal differs from university to university, there are four “essential ingredients” that commonly make up the structure of a research proposal:

  • A rich introduction and background to the proposed research
  • An initial literature review covering the existing research
  • An overview of the proposed research methodology
  • A discussion regarding the practicalities (project plans, timelines, etc.)

In the video below, we unpack each of these four sections, step by step.

Research Proposal Examples/Samples

In the video below, we provide a detailed walkthrough of two successful research proposals (Master’s and PhD-level), as well as our popular free proposal template.

Proposal Writing FAQs

How long should a research proposal be.

This varies tremendously, depending on the university, the field of study (e.g., social sciences vs natural sciences), and the level of the degree (e.g. undergraduate, Masters or PhD) – so it’s always best to check with your university what their specific requirements are before you start planning your proposal.

As a rough guide, a formal research proposal at Masters-level often ranges between 2000-3000 words, while a PhD-level proposal can be far more detailed, ranging from 5000-8000 words. In some cases, a rough outline of the topic is all that’s needed, while in other cases, universities expect a very detailed proposal that essentially forms the first three chapters of the dissertation or thesis.

The takeaway – be sure to check with your institution before you start writing.

How do I choose a topic for my research proposal?

Finding a good research topic is a process that involves multiple steps. We cover the topic ideation process in this video post.

How do I write a literature review for my proposal?

While you typically won’t need a comprehensive literature review at the proposal stage, you still need to demonstrate that you’re familiar with the key literature and are able to synthesise it. We explain the literature review process here.

How do I create a timeline and budget for my proposal?

We explain how to craft a project plan/timeline and budget in Research Proposal Bootcamp .

Which referencing format should I use in my research proposal?

The expectations and requirements regarding formatting and referencing vary from institution to institution. Therefore, you’ll need to check this information with your university.

What common proposal writing mistakes do I need to look out for?

We’ve create a video post about some of the most common mistakes students make when writing a proposal – you can access that here . If you’re short on time, here’s a quick summary:

  • The research topic is too broad (or just poorly articulated).
  • The research aims, objectives and questions don’t align.
  • The research topic is not well justified.
  • The study has a weak theoretical foundation.
  • The research design is not well articulated well enough.
  • Poor writing and sloppy presentation.
  • Poor project planning and risk management.
  • Not following the university’s specific criteria.

Key Takeaways & Additional Resources

As you write up your research proposal, remember the all-important core purpose:  to convince . Your research proposal needs to sell your study in terms of suitability and viability. So, focus on crafting a convincing narrative to ensure a strong proposal.

At the same time, pay close attention to your university’s requirements. While we’ve covered the essentials here, every institution has its own set of expectations and it’s essential that you follow these to maximise your chances of approval.

By the way, we’ve got plenty more resources to help you fast-track your research proposal. Here are some of our most popular resources to get you started:

  • Proposal Writing 101 : A Introductory Webinar
  • Research Proposal Bootcamp : The Ultimate Online Course
  • Template : A basic template to help you craft your proposal

If you’re looking for 1-on-1 support with your research proposal, be sure to check out our private coaching service , where we hold your hand through the proposal development process (and the entire research journey), step by step.

Literature Review Course

Psst… there’s more!

This post is an extract from our bestselling short course, Research Proposal Bootcamp . If you want to work smart, you don't want to miss this .

52 Comments

Myrna Pereira

I truly enjoyed this video, as it was eye-opening to what I have to do in the preparation of preparing a Research proposal.

I would be interested in getting some coaching.

BARAKAELI TEREVAELI

I real appreciate on your elaboration on how to develop research proposal,the video explains each steps clearly.

masebo joseph

Thank you for the video. It really assisted me and my niece. I am a PhD candidate and she is an undergraduate student. It is at times, very difficult to guide a family member but with this video, my job is done.

In view of the above, I welcome more coaching.

Zakia Ghafoor

Wonderful guidelines, thanks

Annie Malupande

This is very helpful. Would love to continue even as I prepare for starting my masters next year.

KYARIKUNDA MOREEN

Thanks for the work done, the text was helpful to me

Ahsanullah Mangal

Bundle of thanks to you for the research proposal guide it was really good and useful if it is possible please send me the sample of research proposal

Derek Jansen

You’re most welcome. We don’t have any research proposals that we can share (the students own the intellectual property), but you might find our research proposal template useful: https://gradcoach.com/research-proposal-template/

Cheruiyot Moses Kipyegon

Cheruiyot Moses Kipyegon

Thanks alot. It was an eye opener that came timely enough before my imminent proposal defense. Thanks, again

agnelius

thank you very much your lesson is very interested may God be with you

Abubakar

I am an undergraduate student (First Degree) preparing to write my project,this video and explanation had shed more light to me thanks for your efforts keep it up.

Synthia Atieno

Very useful. I am grateful.

belina nambeya

this is a very a good guidance on research proposal, for sure i have learnt something

Wonderful guidelines for writing a research proposal, I am a student of m.phil( education), this guideline is suitable for me. Thanks

You’re welcome 🙂

Marjorie

Thank you, this was so helpful.

Amitash Degan

A really great and insightful video. It opened my eyes as to how to write a research paper. I would like to receive more guidance for writing my research paper from your esteemed faculty.

Glaudia Njuguna

Thank you, great insights

Thank you, great insights, thank you so much, feeling edified

Yebirgual

Wow thank you, great insights, thanks a lot

Roseline Soetan

Thank you. This is a great insight. I am a student preparing for a PhD program. I am requested to write my Research Proposal as part of what I am required to submit before my unconditional admission. I am grateful having listened to this video which will go a long way in helping me to actually choose a topic of interest and not just any topic as well as to narrow down the topic and be specific about it. I indeed need more of this especially as am trying to choose a topic suitable for a DBA am about embarking on. Thank you once more. The video is indeed helpful.

Rebecca

Have learnt a lot just at the right time. Thank you so much.

laramato ikayo

thank you very much ,because have learn a lot things concerning research proposal and be blessed u for your time that you providing to help us

Cheruiyot M Kipyegon

Hi. For my MSc medical education research, please evaluate this topic for me: Training Needs Assessment of Faculty in Medical Training Institutions in Kericho and Bomet Counties

Rebecca

I have really learnt a lot based on research proposal and it’s formulation

Arega Berlie

Thank you. I learn much from the proposal since it is applied

Siyanda

Your effort is much appreciated – you have good articulation.

You have good articulation.

Douglas Eliaba

I do applaud your simplified method of explaining the subject matter, which indeed has broaden my understanding of the subject matter. Definitely this would enable me writing a sellable research proposal.

Weluzani

This really helping

Roswitta

Great! I liked your tutoring on how to find a research topic and how to write a research proposal. Precise and concise. Thank you very much. Will certainly share this with my students. Research made simple indeed.

Alice Kuyayama

Thank you very much. I an now assist my students effectively.

Thank you very much. I can now assist my students effectively.

Abdurahman Bayoh

I need any research proposal

Silverline

Thank you for these videos. I will need chapter by chapter assistance in writing my MSc dissertation

Nosi

Very helpfull

faith wugah

the videos are very good and straight forward

Imam

thanks so much for this wonderful presentations, i really enjoyed it to the fullest wish to learn more from you

Bernie E. Balmeo

Thank you very much. I learned a lot from your lecture.

Ishmael kwame Appiah

I really enjoy the in-depth knowledge on research proposal you have given. me. You have indeed broaden my understanding and skills. Thank you

David Mweemba

interesting session this has equipped me with knowledge as i head for exams in an hour’s time, am sure i get A++

Andrea Eccleston

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  • How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates

How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates

Published on October 12, 2022 by Shona McCombes and Tegan George. Revised on November 21, 2023.

Structure of a research proposal

A research proposal describes what you will investigate, why it’s important, and how you will conduct your research.

The format of a research proposal varies between fields, but most proposals will contain at least these elements:

Introduction

Literature review.

  • Research design

Reference list

While the sections may vary, the overall objective is always the same. A research proposal serves as a blueprint and guide for your research plan, helping you get organized and feel confident in the path forward you choose to take.

Table of contents

Research proposal purpose, research proposal examples, research design and methods, contribution to knowledge, research schedule, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about research proposals.

Academics often have to write research proposals to get funding for their projects. As a student, you might have to write a research proposal as part of a grad school application , or prior to starting your thesis or dissertation .

In addition to helping you figure out what your research can look like, a proposal can also serve to demonstrate why your project is worth pursuing to a funder, educational institution, or supervisor.

Research proposal aims
Show your reader why your project is interesting, original, and important.
Demonstrate your comfort and familiarity with your field.
Show that you understand the current state of research on your topic.
Make a case for your .
Demonstrate that you have carefully thought about the data, tools, and procedures necessary to conduct your research.
Confirm that your project is feasible within the timeline of your program or funding deadline.

Research proposal length

The length of a research proposal can vary quite a bit. A bachelor’s or master’s thesis proposal can be just a few pages, while proposals for PhD dissertations or research funding are usually much longer and more detailed. Your supervisor can help you determine the best length for your work.

One trick to get started is to think of your proposal’s structure as a shorter version of your thesis or dissertation , only without the results , conclusion and discussion sections.

Download our research proposal template

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Writing a research proposal can be quite challenging, but a good starting point could be to look at some examples. We’ve included a few for you below.

  • Example research proposal #1: “A Conceptual Framework for Scheduling Constraint Management”
  • Example research proposal #2: “Medical Students as Mediators of Change in Tobacco Use”

Like your dissertation or thesis, the proposal will usually have a title page that includes:

  • The proposed title of your project
  • Your supervisor’s name
  • Your institution and department

The first part of your proposal is the initial pitch for your project. Make sure it succinctly explains what you want to do and why.

Your introduction should:

  • Introduce your topic
  • Give necessary background and context
  • Outline your  problem statement  and research questions

To guide your introduction , include information about:

  • Who could have an interest in the topic (e.g., scientists, policymakers)
  • How much is already known about the topic
  • What is missing from this current knowledge
  • What new insights your research will contribute
  • Why you believe this research is worth doing

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what is the similarities between research proposal and research report

As you get started, it’s important to demonstrate that you’re familiar with the most important research on your topic. A strong literature review  shows your reader that your project has a solid foundation in existing knowledge or theory. It also shows that you’re not simply repeating what other people have already done or said, but rather using existing research as a jumping-off point for your own.

In this section, share exactly how your project will contribute to ongoing conversations in the field by:

  • Comparing and contrasting the main theories, methods, and debates
  • Examining the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches
  • Explaining how will you build on, challenge, or synthesize prior scholarship

Following the literature review, restate your main  objectives . This brings the focus back to your own project. Next, your research design or methodology section will describe your overall approach, and the practical steps you will take to answer your research questions.

Building a research proposal methodology
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To finish your proposal on a strong note, explore the potential implications of your research for your field. Emphasize again what you aim to contribute and why it matters.

For example, your results might have implications for:

  • Improving best practices
  • Informing policymaking decisions
  • Strengthening a theory or model
  • Challenging popular or scientific beliefs
  • Creating a basis for future research

Last but not least, your research proposal must include correct citations for every source you have used, compiled in a reference list . To create citations quickly and easily, you can use our free APA citation generator .

Some institutions or funders require a detailed timeline of the project, asking you to forecast what you will do at each stage and how long it may take. While not always required, be sure to check the requirements of your project.

Here’s an example schedule to help you get started. You can also download a template at the button below.

Download our research schedule template

Example research schedule
Research phase Objectives Deadline
1. Background research and literature review 20th January
2. Research design planning and data analysis methods 13th February
3. Data collection and preparation with selected participants and code interviews 24th March
4. Data analysis of interview transcripts 22nd April
5. Writing 17th June
6. Revision final work 28th July

If you are applying for research funding, chances are you will have to include a detailed budget. This shows your estimates of how much each part of your project will cost.

Make sure to check what type of costs the funding body will agree to cover. For each item, include:

  • Cost : exactly how much money do you need?
  • Justification : why is this cost necessary to complete the research?
  • Source : how did you calculate the amount?

To determine your budget, think about:

  • Travel costs : do you need to go somewhere to collect your data? How will you get there, and how much time will you need? What will you do there (e.g., interviews, archival research)?
  • Materials : do you need access to any tools or technologies?
  • Help : do you need to hire any research assistants for the project? What will they do, and how much will you pay them?

If you want to know more about the research process , methodology , research bias , or statistics , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Methodology

  • Sampling methods
  • Simple random sampling
  • Stratified sampling
  • Cluster sampling
  • Likert scales
  • Reproducibility

 Statistics

  • Null hypothesis
  • Statistical power
  • Probability distribution
  • Effect size
  • Poisson distribution

Research bias

  • Optimism bias
  • Cognitive bias
  • Implicit bias
  • Hawthorne effect
  • Anchoring bias
  • Explicit bias

Once you’ve decided on your research objectives , you need to explain them in your paper, at the end of your problem statement .

Keep your research objectives clear and concise, and use appropriate verbs to accurately convey the work that you will carry out for each one.

I will compare …

A research aim is a broad statement indicating the general purpose of your research project. It should appear in your introduction at the end of your problem statement , before your research objectives.

Research objectives are more specific than your research aim. They indicate the specific ways you’ll address the overarching aim.

A PhD, which is short for philosophiae doctor (doctor of philosophy in Latin), is the highest university degree that can be obtained. In a PhD, students spend 3–5 years writing a dissertation , which aims to make a significant, original contribution to current knowledge.

A PhD is intended to prepare students for a career as a researcher, whether that be in academia, the public sector, or the private sector.

A master’s is a 1- or 2-year graduate degree that can prepare you for a variety of careers.

All master’s involve graduate-level coursework. Some are research-intensive and intend to prepare students for further study in a PhD; these usually require their students to write a master’s thesis . Others focus on professional training for a specific career.

Critical thinking refers to the ability to evaluate information and to be aware of biases or assumptions, including your own.

Like information literacy , it involves evaluating arguments, identifying and solving problems in an objective and systematic way, and clearly communicating your ideas.

The best way to remember the difference between a research plan and a research proposal is that they have fundamentally different audiences. A research plan helps you, the researcher, organize your thoughts. On the other hand, a dissertation proposal or research proposal aims to convince others (e.g., a supervisor, a funding body, or a dissertation committee) that your research topic is relevant and worthy of being conducted.

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Proposal vs. Report

What's the difference.

A proposal and a report are both written documents that serve different purposes. A proposal is a persuasive document that outlines a plan or idea and seeks approval or funding for its implementation. It typically includes an introduction, problem statement, objectives, methodology, timeline, and budget. On the other hand, a report is a factual document that presents information or findings on a specific topic or project. It provides a detailed analysis of the subject matter, including research, data, and recommendations. While a proposal focuses on convincing the reader to support a particular initiative, a report aims to inform and provide insights based on research and analysis.

Proposal

AttributeProposalReport
PurposeOutlines a plan or idea to be implementedPresents findings or results of research or investigation
FormatTypically includes sections like introduction, objectives, methodology, timeline, and budgetMay include sections like introduction, methodology, findings, analysis, and conclusion
AudienceIntended for decision-makers or stakeholders who will evaluate and approve the proposalIntended for readers who are interested in the research or investigation conducted
ContentIncludes details about the proposed project, its benefits, and potential risksIncludes information about the research process, data collected, analysis, and conclusions drawn
LengthCan vary depending on the complexity of the proposal, typically several pagesCan vary depending on the scope of the report, typically several pages to a few dozen pages
ObjectiveTo persuade the audience to approve and support the proposed planTo inform the audience about the research findings and provide recommendations if applicable

Report

Further Detail

Introduction.

When it comes to written communication in various professional settings, two common types of documents that are often encountered are proposals and reports. While both serve distinct purposes, they share some similarities as well. In this article, we will explore the attributes of proposals and reports, highlighting their differences and similarities, and discussing their unique characteristics.

Purpose and Audience

One of the primary distinctions between proposals and reports lies in their purpose and intended audience. A proposal is typically created to suggest a plan of action, request funding or resources, or propose a solution to a problem. It aims to persuade the reader to take a specific course of action. On the other hand, a report is designed to present factual information, findings, or analysis on a particular topic. Its purpose is to inform and provide insights to the reader, often without a call to action.

Proposals are commonly directed towards decision-makers, stakeholders, or potential clients who have the authority to approve or reject the proposed plan. The audience for reports, however, can vary widely depending on the context. Reports may be intended for colleagues, supervisors, clients, or even the general public, depending on the nature of the information being presented.

Structure and Format

Another significant difference between proposals and reports lies in their structure and format. Proposals typically follow a specific format that includes sections such as an executive summary, introduction, problem statement, proposed solution, budget, timeline, and conclusion. These sections are organized in a logical sequence to present a persuasive argument.

Reports, on the other hand, may have a more flexible structure depending on the purpose and context. They often include sections such as an introduction, methodology, findings, analysis, conclusions, and recommendations. However, the specific sections and their order may vary based on the type of report and the organization's guidelines.

Both proposals and reports may include supporting materials such as charts, graphs, tables, or appendices to provide additional information or evidence. However, the inclusion of these elements is more common in reports, where data visualization and supporting evidence play a crucial role in conveying the information effectively.

Tone and Language

The tone and language used in proposals and reports also differ to some extent. Proposals often adopt a persuasive and assertive tone, aiming to convince the reader of the proposed idea's value and benefits. The language used in proposals is typically more formal and professional, focusing on presenting a compelling argument and showcasing the writer's expertise.

Reports, on the other hand, tend to have a more objective and neutral tone. The language used in reports is generally more factual and concise, focusing on presenting information accurately and objectively. While the writer's expertise is still important, the emphasis is more on providing an unbiased analysis or summary of the topic at hand.

Research and Analysis

Both proposals and reports often require research and analysis, but the extent and focus of these activities can vary. Proposals typically involve conducting research to identify the problem, understand the target audience, and gather evidence to support the proposed solution. The analysis in proposals is often centered around the potential benefits, feasibility, and cost-effectiveness of the proposed plan.

Reports, on the other hand, may involve more extensive research and analysis, depending on the topic and purpose. Reports often require gathering data, conducting surveys or interviews, and analyzing the information to draw meaningful conclusions. The analysis in reports is focused on interpreting the data, identifying trends, and providing insights or recommendations based on the findings.

In conclusion, proposals and reports are two distinct types of written communication that serve different purposes and target different audiences. Proposals aim to persuade and convince the reader to take a specific course of action, while reports focus on presenting factual information and analysis. The structure, tone, language, and research involved in each document type also differ to some extent. Understanding the attributes of proposals and reports is essential for effective communication in various professional settings, enabling individuals to tailor their writing to the specific needs and expectations of their audience.

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A research proposal differs in important respects from other forms of writing with which students are more familiar, such as an academic essay or a research paper.  Instead of trying to reach a minimum length (e.g., 7 pages or 2000 words), you must achieve discrete goals within a specified space constraint (e.g., 2 pages or 750 words).  Many students find this shift challenging, but the process of writing a proposal is essential for  organizing  your exciting ideas and  prioritizing  your next steps.

Defining your questions

While an essay or a research paper requires an overall argument and provides evidence to support it, a research proposal is organized around questions to which the author does not yet have answers.  A good research proposal  does  make an argument of a particular sort: its purpose is to convince readers that the questions are worth trying to answer and that the author has a concrete plan for doing so.

A good proposal and, by extension, a solid research agenda are organized around a central interpretive problem broken down into a series of smaller, more specific questions.  Even if you begin with a topic that just seems fascinating, you will find that you have lots of different kinds of questions about its historiography and history.  As you work toward a proposal, try to isolate and prioritize those questions:  Which questions do you most want to find the answers to?  Which questions can you realistically answer?  If they are not the same, how might you reconcile what you want  to find out with what you  can  find out through independent research?

As you work on a central question for your thesis, you also need to consider how you can explain to others why it is meaningful.  This is the universal “so what?”:  How will answers to your particular questions contribute to our collective knowledge?  How will your research help us better understand the subject?  While there are many ways of establishing the significance of a project, never assume that an uninitiated reader will find your topic inherently interesting.  You must hint at the broader implications of your research in order to win over a reader who does not necessarily know (or care) anything about your thesis topic.  The examples in “Learning from Model Proposals” exhibit various means of achieving this end.

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Difference Between Research Proposal and Research Report

Edited by Diffzy | Updated on: September 15, 2023

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  • Introduction

Research is a detailed study on a subject or topic the researcher is passionate about or needs to work on. It is a quest to find an answer to a question or a solution to a problem. Research is done by students to complete their course requirements, by Ph.D. scholars to earn their doctorate on a particular subject, by scientists to prove a theory, or by organizations for various purposes. Individuals who conduct research are commonly known as researchers.

Research proposals and research reports are very integral parts of a research study. A research proposal is a written plan of the research one wants to conduct. It shows the gist of the research problem and why it is necessary to conduct the research. It is on the main used to get the approval to conduct research. Only when a research proposal gets approved a researcher can start the research work.

The research report, on the other hand, is made after the research process is complete. It is a written document of the whole research work. It consists of all the facts and findings from the research work that may be useful in the future. Research cannot be complete without a research report.

  • Research Proposal vs Research Report

Research proposals and research reports play very distinctive roles in the research work. While a research proposal is the first step toward research, a research report is prepared after all the research work is complete. The research proposal describes what the researcher intends to do with research and how. The research report is documentation of the whole research process and the result. Likewise, there are many other differences between the two.

  • Difference Between Research Proposal and Research Report in Tabular Form
MeaningIt is a short introduction to the research problem and why it needs to be done.It describes the complete research work from the beginning to the end.
OrderIt is prepared at the beginning of a research project.It is prepared at the end of the research study.
PurposeIt is prepared to express the need for the research and get the approval to conduct research.It is prepared to document all the parts of the research and make it accessible to a wider audience.
FocusIt focuses on the research problem.It puts its focus on the results of the research study.
ComponentsIt contains contents like an introduction, literature review, aims and objectives, research questions, and methodology.It contains components such as introduction, literature review, research questions, methodology, aims and objectives, findings, analysis, results, conclusions, recommendations, and references.
LengthIt is shorter than research reports. It can be 4-6 pages long.It is longer than research proposals. It can be 100-300 pages long.
  • What is Research Proposal?

A research proposal is a brief introduction to a proposed research study and the intentions behind it. It gives us a glimpse of what the actual research would be like. It also mentions where the researcher wants to conduct research and how the research problem is relevant to this area. It is prepared at the very beginning of the research work. This step is necessary, and one cannot start working on the research without going through this process.

A research proposal is required to help scholars and university students to start their thesis or dissertation. It may involve getting funding for the research, especially for research scholars. To get the approval to conduct research, one needs to convince the authority that research is necessary to be conducted.

A research proposal must clearly explain the motive of the research and what kind of impact it will make on society at large. Only through a well-written research proposal can one get approval and start the research work.

A research proposal is not lengthy but it needs to be carefully written. It needs to be clear and organized. Hence, even preparing a research proposal of 4-6 pages can take some days.

The format of a research proposal may differ in different fields or according to various universities when it comes to applying for a Ph.D. Nevertheless, most of the research proposals comprise the following components:

The introduction also contains many components. In this section, one needs to-

  • Introduce the problem the researcher is targeting to study on
  • Describe the intention of the study
  • Describe the importance of the study in the required area
  • Describe why the readers need to be concerned about the results of the study

The title of the research and its objectives may change a little, even after the proposal gets selected. The guidance of supervisors or mentors may bring more insight to the research, which could lead the change in some parts of the already planned research study. It would still have the same essence as the earlier topic/s.

Background Information

Background information can either be incorporated into the introduction or can be written separately according to the researcher's wish. It mainly includes the context of the study, the problem statement, its scope, the extent to which it was studied before, and how further the researcher will study it.

Literature Review

It is the review of past studies or published information about subjects relating to the topic the researcher wants to study. It also includes a critical evaluation of the articles if they are found to have some limitations or errors.

The objectives are goals that the researcher wants to achieve through the study. These are the major statements that give direction to forming the questions of the study.

Research Questions

These arestatements that are used toguide the research and get results.

Research Design and Methodology

Research design is like a plan on how to go about the research. It is a framework of the research study.

Research methodology is the complete strategy of the research. It contains the topic, objectives, area of research study, research population, sample, type of research, method of data collection, source of data, etc.

The research report must consist of references to articles or books providing relevant information for the research.

  • What is Research Report?

The preparation of research report begins after the completion of a research study. It is the written documentation of every part of the research in an orderly manner, from the introduction to the conclusion and references. This report is the final product of the research work and is the heart and soul of the research. It contains all the valuable information gathered through the research.

It includes a record of interaction between the researcher and the respondents/cases. It contains facts and findings that can be useful to gather new knowledge.

When a research report is published, it reaches a wider audience who could use the information shared through the research report. A research report is necessary to let the readers know the procedure of the research conducted and find out the results of the research. It can be used for future references for people interested to study the same subject.

Since a research report has many components, it is much lengthier than a research proposal. It takes a lot of time and effort to gather all the information and place them in the required format in the research report. Hence, this is the reason a research report is a valuable asset to the researchers.

A research report is lengthier and consists of more components than a research proposal. It contains most of the contents that are part of the research proposal like introduction, background information, literature review, objectives, research questions, research design, and methodology. Additionally, it contains the following sections:

Interpretation and Analysis

This is the part where the information found after data collection is analyzed carefully and interpreted by the researcher. In a quantitative research study, it would be displayed through tables and figures. In a qualitative study, however, it would be described through case studies.

Major Findings

After the interpretation and analysis, the major findings are noted down. This includes forming major points from the facts gathered from the analysis and interpretation of the research.

Limitations

This part describes sampling errors, time constraints, lack of previous studies on the topic, inability to access data, and other limitations of the research.

Recommendations

In this part, the researcher notes down some suggestions as to what can one do to solve the problem that the researcher studied. Here the researcher lists out strategies and plans of action. These suggestions may be of use to have a good impact on the area covered by the researcher for his study. These recommendations may be directed toward the public, policymakers, or individuals in the research area.

Here the researcher concludes the research work by writing a gist of what he learned through the research. It would describe what the situation of the problem is and how things can get better.

This part contains the list of names of the books and the links to the sites from where the researcher gathered the information for the research study.

This section is for additional information. It may not be immediately necessary for the research but can be included to provide some raw data like pictures, questionnaires or interview schedules, maps, drawings, etc. This part does not contain the necessary information, and the research must be able to stand alone without an appendix.

  • Main Differences Between Research Proposal and Research Report in Points
  • A research proposal introduces the research problem and the strategies planned to conduct the research. A research report, however, contains all the information gathered during and after the research.
  • Since a research proposal is a gist of the actual research, it is brief if we compare it to a research report. A research report, however, is lengthier as it contains all the parts of a research.
  • A research proposal aims at getting approval to conduct the research, whereas a research report aims to show the result of the research. 
  • A research proposal is prepared to describe why it is necessary. However, a research report is prepared to document all the parts of the research and keep it for future use.
  • A research proposal is prepared before the research begins, whereas a research report is written after the research is conducted.
  • A research proposal consists of fewer chapters as it is just a gist of what needs to be done. A research report, however, has more sections as it contains everything about the research from the start to the end.
  • A research proposal describes the future actions that need to be taken to conduct the research, whereas research report documents all the past actions taken by the researcher to complete the research study.
  • A research proposal is written in the future tense, whereas a research report is written in the past tense.

Research proposal and research work are both necessary documents in research. A research cannot be conducted without a research proposal, and the research is incomplete without a research report.

A research proposal is the plan of the research that shows why it is necessary to conduct the research study and how it will be conducted. It is used to convince the authority to approve the research study.

On the other hand, a research report is a documentation of the whole research process, including facts and findings gathered during the research process. To a researcher, it would be like a final product of all the efforts put into the research.

Both the research proposal and research report have a few similar components. Introduction, background information, literature review, objectives, research questions, research design, methodology, and references are components in both research proposal and report. But a research report contains additional information gathered during and after the research work. This is why a research proposal is shorter and a research report is comparatively lengthier. Nevertheless, preparing both a research proposal and a research report takes effort and a lot of studying.

It is undeniable that both the research proposal and research report are distinctive, and both are integral to the research work.

  • https://research.com/research/how-to-write-a-research-proposal
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5037942/

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Home » Education » What is the Difference Between Research and Project

What is the Difference Between Research and Project

The main difference between research and project is that research is the systematic investigation and study of materials and sources to establish facts and reach new conclusions, while a project is a specific and finite activity that gives a measurable and observable result under preset requirements.

Both research and projects use a systematic approach. We also sometimes use the term research project to refer to research studies.

Key Areas Covered

1.  What is Research       – Definition, Features 2. What is a Project      – Definition, Features 3.  Difference Between Research and Project      – Comparison of Key Differences

Research, Project

Difference Between Research and Project - Comparison Summary

What is Research

Research is a careful study a researcher conducts using a systematic approach and scientific methods. A research study typically involves several components: abstract, introduction ,  literature review ,  research design, and method , results and analysis, conclusion, bibliography. Researchers usually begin a formal research study with a hypothesis; then, they test this hypothesis rigorously. They also explore and analyze the literature already available on their research subject. This allows them to study the research subject from multiple perspectives, acknowledging different problems that need to be solved.

 Research vs Project

There are different types of research, the main two categories being quantitative research and qualitative research. Depending on their research method and design, we can also categorize research as descriptive research, exploratory research, longitudinal research, cross-sectional research, etc.

Furthermore, research should always be objective or unbiased. Moreover, if the research involves participants, for example, in surveys or interviews, the researcher should always make sure to obtain their written consent first.

What is a Project

A project is a collaborative or individual enterprise that is carefully planned to achieve a particular aim. We can also describe it as a specific and finite activity that gives a measurable and observable result under preset requirements. This result can be tangible or intangible; for example, product, service, competitive advantage, etc. A project generally involves a series of connected tasks planned for execution over a fixed period of time and within certain limitations like quality and cost. The Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) defines a project as a “temporary endeavor with a beginning and an end, and it must be used to create a unique product, service or result.”

 Compare Research and Project - What's the difference?

Difference Between Research and Project

Research is a careful study conducted using a systematic approach and scientific methods, whereas a project is a collaborative or individual enterprise that is carefully planned to achieve a particular aim.

Research studies are mainly carried out in academia, while projects can be seen in a variety of contexts, including businesses.

The main aim of the research is to seek or revise facts, theories, or principles, while the main aim of a project is to achieve a tangible or intangible result; for example, product, service, competitive advantage, etc.

The main difference between research and project is that research is the systematic investigation and study of materials and sources to establish facts and reach new conclusions, while the project is a specific and finite activity that gives a measurable and observable result under preset requirements.

1. “ What Is a Project? – Definition, Lifecycle and Key Characteristics .” Your Guide to Project Management Best Practices .

Image Courtesy:

1. “ Research ” by Nick Youngson (CC BY-SA 3.0) via The Blue Diamond Gallery 2. “ Project-group-team-feedback ” (CC0) via Pixabay

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Understanding research proposals.

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CLASSIC ARTICLE - While there are important differences between grant proposals for research and grant proposals for programs, there are also many parallels. Grantsmanship Center trainer Charles R. Putney outlines the major components of a standard research proposal, and he explains how they relate to similar components Learn the key differences and similarities between grant proposals for research and programs by reviewing an outline for a standard research proposal.of a program proposal.

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  1. What are some of the differences between a research article and a review article?

    what is the similarities between research proposal and research report

  2. Difference Between Research Proposal and Research Report (with Comparison Chart)

    what is the similarities between research proposal and research report

  3. Similarities Between Research Proposal And Research Report Pdf

    what is the similarities between research proposal and research report

  4. Research proposal Vs Research Report

    what is the similarities between research proposal and research report

  5. Difference Between Research Proposal and Research Report

    what is the similarities between research proposal and research report

  6. Razlika između prijedloga istraživanja i izvješća o istraživanju

    what is the similarities between research proposal and research report

VIDEO

  1. Difference between Research Questions and Research Objectives

  2. Difference between Research Proposal-Research Report-Research Paper

  3. RESEARCH PROPOSAL VS RESEARCH REPORT

  4. Difference between Research Proposal and Study Plan

  5. Research Proposal Template Examples

  6. Doing a Literature Review

COMMENTS

  1. KPMG report: Specified research and experimentation expenditures under

    Taxpayers claiming research and development (R&D) tax credits for work performed under contract must contend with the exclusion for "funded research." Read a June 2024 report* prepared by a KPMG LLP tax professional that examines the similarities and differences between specified research expenditure product rights, as defined for section ...

  2. Difference Between Research Proposal and Research Report

    A research proposal is prepared at the beginning of the project. In contrast, the research report is prepared after the completion of the project. The length of a research proposal is about 4-10 pages. On the contrary, the length of the research report is about 100 to 300 pages.

  3. Difference Between Research Proposal and Research Report

    A research report describes the whole research study and is submitted after the competition of the whole research project. Thus, the main difference between research proposal and research report is that a research proposal describes the proposed research and research design whereas a research report describes the completed research, including ...

  4. Research Proposal vs. Research Report

    A research proposal is a document that outlines the objectives, methodology, and significance of a research project. It is typically submitted to gain approval and funding for the research. On the other hand, a research report is a detailed account of the research findings, analysis, and conclusions. It presents the results of the research in a ...

  5. Difference Between Research Proposal and Research Report

    A research proposal is a framework that guides the research. A research proposal can be described as a plan for collecting, measuring, and analysing data. A research report is a written description of the research findings. It follows a particular format. Preparing a research proposal is the first step in research work.

  6. Guidelines for Writing a Research Proposal and a Research Report

    British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 1980, 43 (6), 206-208. Leedy P. D. Practical Research (2nd ed.). New York: Macmillan Publishing Company, 1980. Malcolm M. L. Training in Research at Salford School of Occupational Therapy. British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 1980, 43 (11), 361-362.

  7. What is the Difference Between Research Proposal and Research Report?

    The proposal step of research precedes the actual research itself. This is the stage where a student should outline in detail what questions they will explore and analyze. As a preparation stage, the research proposal is presented at the beginning of the research project with the aim of justifying the need for a deeper analysis and probing into ...

  8. Research Proposal vs. Research Report: What's the Difference?

    8. In a research proposal, the emphasis is on the potential of the research: what the researcher aims to discover or prove, and how they plan to do it. It's forward-looking and speculative in nature. In contrast, a research report focuses on what was discovered or proven, providing concrete evidence and data to support its conclusions.

  9. Research Proposal vs Research Report: Main Differences

    A research proposal is written before the collection and analysis of data (basically before the main body of work begins). A research report is submitted after the competition of the whole research project (after most of the work is completed). A research report will have all the sections listed above, but it will also include additional ...

  10. The Key Difference Between a Research Proposal and a Research Report

    Reports are reactive, while proposals are aggressive. The structure and format. It's essential to know the structure and framework. In your paper, you should include an introduction, a literature study, research goals, and a method in a research plan. The research report, on the other hand, has an introduction, methods, data, a talk, and a ...

  11. DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PROPOSAL, RESEACH & REPORT

    Difference between Proposal, Research & Report we study the various steps that are generally adopted by a researcher in studying his research problem along with the logic behind them (Kothari, 1990). 2.2 IMPORTANCE OF RESEARCH The importance of the research relates to the relevance of the investigation interns of academic contribution and ...

  12. Research Proposal VS Research Report

    Research Proposal VS Research Report | Key Differences between Research Proposal and Research Report

  13. What'S The Difference Between A Project And A Research Project?

    The research proposal is written in the future, the time used in the research report is past because it is written in the third person. Research proposals are approximately 4-10 pages in length. On the other hand, research consists of proving the main thesis backed up by evidence and data.

  14. PDF Papers vs. proposals

    Research is exciting—important and innovative. Science is sound/ feasible; results are/ will be reliable. Difference between future and past research require different ways of making these arguments. Papers: make outcome seem uncertain research seems more exciting. Proposals: make outcome seem certain experiments seem more feasible.

  15. What is the difference between a concept paper and a research proposal?

    08 March, 2022. On the surface, concept papers sound like they do the same job as a research proposal - and essentially, they do. Both are designed to communicate the rationale, methodology and outcomes of a proposed piece of work. The difference between the two lies mostly in the level of detail and the potential audience, based on which ...

  16. What Is A Research Proposal? Examples + Template

    The purpose of the research proposal (its job, so to speak) is to convince your research supervisor, committee or university that your research is suitable (for the requirements of the degree program) and manageable (given the time and resource constraints you will face). The most important word here is "convince" - in other words, your ...

  17. How to Write a Research Proposal

    The format of a research proposal varies between fields, but most proposals will contain at least these elements: Title page; Introduction; Literature review; Research design; Reference list; While the sections may vary, the overall objective is always the same. A research proposal serves as a blueprint and guide for your research plan, helping ...

  18. Understanding the Difference between a Research Proposal and a ...

    Difference between Research Proposal & Research Paper. In the realm of academia, particularly in the fields of science, social sciences, and humanities, research plays a pivotal role in advancing ...

  19. Proposal vs. Report

    A proposal is a persuasive document that outlines a plan or idea and seeks approval or funding for its implementation. It typically includes an introduction, problem statement, objectives, methodology, timeline, and budget. On the other hand, a report is a factual document that presents information or findings on a specific topic or project.

  20. How is writing a proposal different from writing a paper for class? (B

    A research proposal differs in important respects from other forms of writing with which students are more familiar, such as an academic essay or a research paper. Instead of trying to reach a minimum length (e.g., 7 pages or 2000 words), you must achieve discrete goals within a specified space constraint (e.g., 2 pages or 750 words). ...

  21. Difference Between Research Proposal and Research Report

    A research proposal aims at getting approval to conduct the research, whereas a research report aims to show the result of the research. A research proposal is prepared to describe why it is necessary. However, a research report is prepared to document all the parts of the research and keep it for future use.

  22. Comparing Research Paper and Proposal Writing

    V. Differences between Research Papers and Proposals. Research Paper vs Proposal The primary difference between a research paper and proposal is the purpose for writing them. A research paper focuses on an in-depth examination of one specific topic, while a proposal seeks to identify solutions or strategies to address an issue.

  23. What is the Difference Between Research and Project

    The main difference between research and project is that research is the systematic investigation and study of materials and sources to establish facts and reach new conclusions, while a project is a specific and finite activity that gives a measurable and observable result under preset requirements. Both research and projects use a systematic ...

  24. Understanding Research Proposals

    CLASSIC ARTICLE - While there are important differences between grant proposals for research and grant proposals for programs, there are also many parallels. Grantsmanship Center trainer Charles R. Putney outlines the major components of a standard research proposal, and he explains how they relate to similar components Learn the key differences and similarities between grant proposals for ...