Research · Research guide · 12 min read
From topic to research proposal
Shape a workable question, justify it, and outline methods examiners can evaluate.
A strong proposal shows that the question matters, that you understand existing work, and that your method can answer the question within time and resources. Aim for clarity over ambition.
Narrow the topic
- Start broad, then add population, place, time, or variable constraints.
- Check feasibility: data access, ethics, skills, and calendar.
- Write one primary research question and up to three sub-questions.
Too broad: How does social media affect students? Sharper: How do first-year undergraduates describe the effect of short-form video use on weekday study routines?
Core proposal sections (common)
- Title and keywords
- Background and rationale
- Brief literature context and gap
- Aims, questions, and (if used) hypotheses
- Methodology and data plan
- Ethics and limitations
- Timeline and references
- Question is specific and answerable
- Gap is supported by literature notes
- Method matches the question
- Ethics risks identified
- Timeline fits the degree stage
Research Hub helps you move from topic ideas to proposal and chapter templates.