1
Using Inverted Pyramid Formatting Style and Title Case,
Place the Title of Your Research Report Here
Just Like This
by
Your Name
A Grant Proposal Project Report
Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the
Requirements for the
Master of Science Degree
in
Your Major
Approved: # (enter appropriate #) Semester Credits
__________________________
Place the name of your research adviser here.
Your adviser signs on the line.
The Graduate School
University of Wisconsin-Stout
Month, Year
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The Graduate School
University of Wisconsin-Stout
Menomonie, WI
Author:
Your Last Name, Your First Name and Middle Initial
Title:
The Title of Your Grant Proposal Report Goes Here. Consider Working
“Grant Proposal” into the Title.
Graduate Degree/ Major: MS Education
Research Adviser:
First Name Last Name, Degree abbreviation (e.g. Ph.D.)
Month/Year:
Month, Year
Number of Pages:
nn
Style Manual Used: American Psychological Association, 6th edition
Abstract
A completed abstract page includes preliminary information formatted as above, as well
as a concise summary of the paper. The page is collated within the research report (i.e. paper)
immediately following the title page. Number all pages using Arabic numerals (1, 2…). Double
space the text and use the same 1 inch margins as in the balance of the paper.
Abstracts should be no longer than 200 words in length. Consult pages 25-27 in
the APA manual for some tips regarding the qualities of a good abstract. Pay close
attention to grammar and spelling; papers with misspellings and typographical errors will
be returned as will abstracts that do not follow the format as illustrated in this document.
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The Graduate School
University of Wisconsin Stout
Menomonie, WI
Acknowledgments
Many students like to acknowledge people who have significantly contributed to their
graduate education on this page and are welcome to do so. Remember, however, that
Acknowledgments are not part of the scholarly work; Acknowledgments and its page number are
not listed in the Table of Contents.
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Table of Contents
.................................................................................................................................................... Page
Abstract ............................................................................................................................................2
List of Tables ..................................................................................................................................3
List of Figures ..................................................................................................................................4
Chapter I: Introduction ....................................................................................................................5
Statement of the Problem .....................................................................................................5
Purpose of the Study ............................................................................................................5
Definition of Terms..............................................................................................................6
Methodology ........................................................................................................................7
Chapter II: Literature Review ........................................................................................................12
Introduction of Research Supported Need/Problem ..........................................................12
Chapter III: Project Goals and Objectives .....................................................................................17
Goal/Objective ...................................................................................................................17
Goal/Objective ...................................................................................................................18
Goal/Objective ...................................................................................................................19
Chapter IV: Project Methodology..................................................................................................20
Action Plan and Timeline ..................................................................................................21
Evaluation Plan and Tools .................................................................................................25
Dissemination Plan ............................................................................................................27
Budget ................................................................................................................................29
References ......................................................................................................................................30
Appendix A: Cover Letter ............................................................................................................33
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Appendix B: Include Title of Any Appendix You Include ...........................................................34
Appendix C: An Introduction to APA Style. Research Paper FAQS; Provided here
for your reference only; don’t include in your paper ......................................................35
Appendix D: How to Complete a Research Project.......................................................................36
Appendix E: Crediting Sources – Quoting, Paraphrasing and Plagiarism ....................................38
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List of Tables
Table 1: Data, Data and More Data. ................................................................................................2
Table 1: Data, Data and More Data. The title of this table is more than a single line; indent the
second line just like this. ....................................................................................................3
If you’ve constructed more than a couple of tables and plan to place them in the body of your
paper, include a list of them in a List of Tables. List the table number, name and page on which
the table can be found (example above). If you only have a couple of tables, do not construct a
List of Tables, simply include the title of the table and its page number in the Table of Contents
in the appropriate place in the pagination order.
Note 1: Not all papers will have a List of Tables (see above).
Note 2: Pay close attention to the purpose and format of your tables and figures. Tables and
figures are meant to provide a quick graphical reference to the textual discussion within your
paper; as such, they should be concise. For a quick visual reference for formatting a variety of
tables consult the APA manual. Below is information about producing tables as well as an
example of APA table format.
How to Make a Table in APA Style Using Word XP
 Click on Table, then go to Insert and follow it right to Table.
 Figure out how many rows and columns you need. If you aren’t right the first time, you
can add or delete them later by going to Insert and Delete under Table.
 Click on Auto Format in the lower right side of the pop-up.
 Find Simple 1 (which is green and toward the end of the options) and click on it.
 Where it says “Apply special formats to” toward the bottom of the screen unclick (i.e.,
get rid of the check mark in the box) all but “heading rows.”
 Hit okay.
On the next page you’ll find an example of a properly constructed table. Some of the lines may
appear in green; if you print using grayscale (file, print, properties, color, check grayscale, ok)
the green will not appear. Also, the light gray lines will not print out; they are there for your
reference.
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Table 4
I Am Equipped with the Computer Technology I Need To Work Efficiently in My Classroom
Response
Frequency (N=143)
Percentage
Disagree
27
18.9%
Neutral
26
18.2%
Agree
89
62.3%
How to Make a Table in APA Style Using Excel 2007
 Insert your information into the cells in the way you would want it to appear in the table.
 Click on Home, then go to Format as Table.
 Click on New Table Style… at the bottom .
 A window will pop up. Under the Table Elements click Whole Table, then click Format.
 A second window will pop up. You can control the font on the Excel sheet, so click on
the table labeled Border.
 For the Line Style choose the single thin line on the bottom left. For the Border click the
top horizontal line, the mid horizontal line, and the bottom horizontal line. Then choose
the color green from the drop down box under the label Color.
 Click OK.
 Clicking ok will close the second window and take you back to the first. Click OK on
this window.
 You have just created a custom table style. Now highlight the cells that contain your
table data and click the Format as Table button again. This time select your custom style
at the top.
 Save.
 Copy and paste into your Word document.
Response
Frequency (N=143)
Percentage
Disagree
27
18.90%
Neutral
26
18.20%
Agree
89
62.30%
If you have fairly simplistic information and do not want to go through the trouble of using an
actual table, you can use the border and underline functions to make it since only horizontal lines
are allowed.
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UW-Stout Graduate School formatting standard indicate that tables are to be double-spaced.
However, if the table is longer than one page double-spaced, use 1.5 or single spacing. If your
material is lengthy, consider including it in an appendix rather than in the body of the paper.
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List of Figures
Figures are graphical representations of data (not including tables). If you’ve included more than
1 or 2 figures in your paper, list them here. List the number, name and page on which the figure
can be found (same format as for Tables). If you only have 1 or 2 of figures, include them in the
Table of Contents in their appropriate place in the pagination order.
Example
Figure 1: List title here…………………………………………………………….……14
Figure 2: List title here………………………………………………….………………18
Figure 3: List title here………………………….………………………………………19
Note: Not all papers will have a List of Figures; consult the APA manual beginning on page 150
for more information regarding the use of figures.
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Chapter I: Introduction
Begin by introducing your topic here.
Statement of the Problem
Statement of the problem should include the basic difficulty, area of concern, and/or
perceived need for the study.
Purpose of the Study
Discuss the goal - emphasize practical outcomes or products.
Definition of Terms
Term and its definition here. Only include terms that may not be well understood by a
layperson outside of your field. Information in this section is formatted in paragraphs just like
information in any other sub-heading. Bold all terms, but not their definitions. The use of bold
for each term is for emphasis, not to indicate the beginning of a new subheading. Treat each
definition as if you were quoting from a dictionary. For example, indicate that it is quoted
material by adding the page number and putting it into quotation marks if less than 40 words.
Term here. Type its definition, here. Format each new term just as you would any new
paragraph.
Next term. Definition ……..
Limitations of the Study
Discuss the limitations of the study here.
Methodology
Briefly outline the remainder of your paper
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Chapter II: Literature Review
No sub-headings are indicated for this chapter because they will vary considerably from
research paper to research paper. The format of headings and sub-headings depends upon the
way you have organized your thoughts via the use of heading levels in your paper. Place
headings in their appropriate spot on the page and use boldface formatting as indicated. For
more information about headings, see the APA manual beginning on page 111.
Note: As outlined in the specifications for the grant proposal option, “The educational problem to
be addressed by the proposal must be supported by a minimum of 15 references from refereed
current scholarly research (journal articles, books, etc.)”
See Appendix B for information about writing an effective literature review.
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Chapter III: Project Goals and Objectives
Begin with an introduction. Some suggestions include reiterating the statement of the
problem and briefly provide an overview of the information in this chapter. Then discuss
specific objectives.
List Your First Goal Here In This Exact Format
Describe or discuss your first goal here. This follows standard paragraph formatting
where the first line is indented and subsequent lines are flush with the left margin. Notice that
the goal itself (above) is typed using “title case” formatting where, in general, the initial letter of
each word is capitalized.
List the first objective related to your first goal here in this exact format. Follow this
exact format where the objective is formatted using bold lower case characters, and the objective
is indented just as in the beginning sentence of a paragraph. Each subsequent objective related to
the goal above it will appear as its own paragraph.
List Your Second Goal Here In This Exact Format
Describe it here.
List the first objective related to your second goal here in this exact format.
Discuss the first objective related to your second goal here, and so on.
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Chapter IV. Project Methodology
Start out with an introduction. You might restate the problem and briefly discuss
what this chapter will include.
Action Plan and Timeline
This section should address the activities, persons responsible and timeframe
aligned to each goal/objective.
Evaluation Plan and Tools
Include a discussion of the evaluation plan and evaluation tools here. The plan
for evaluation of the grant must be research based. Instruments used to collect evaluation
data must be developed and included (e.g. survey instruments, pre/post measures, or
questionnaires). Data collection procedures should be described as should a specific plan
for data analysis.
Dissemination Plan
Budget
This typically includes a narrative section followed by table(s) or chart(s).
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References
Note: As outlined in the University of Wisconsin-Stout, School of Education (SOE)
specifications for the grant proposal option, “…The educational problem to be addressed by the
proposal must be supported by a minimum of 15 references from refereed current scholarly
research (journal articles, books, etc).”
American Psychological Association. (Producer). (2000). Responding therapeutically to patient
expressions of sexual attraction [DVD]. Available from http://www.apa.org/videos/
Bormann, C. A., & Stone, M. H. (2001). The effects of eliminating alcohol in a college stadium:
The Folsom Field beer ban [Electronic version]. Journal of American College Health,
50(2), 81-88.
Crowl, T. K. (1993). Qualitative research methods. In P. Geller & S. Schmidt (Eds.).
Fundamentals of educational research (pp. 432-456). Dubuque, IA: Brown and
Benchmark.
Federal Initiative Supporting School-to-Work Transition. (2000). Retrieved October 5, 2002,
from http://www.transitioninschools.org
Herbst-Damm, K.L., & Kulik, J.A. (2005). Volunteer support, marital status, and the survival
times of terminally ill patients. Health Psychology, 24, 225-229. doi: 10.1037/02786133.24.2.225
Liswood, L. A. (1999, March 31). Gender politics and the oval office: Why don't women run for
president? [Electronic version]. Baltimore Sun, A23
MiddleKid. (2007, January 22). Re: The unfortunate prerequisites and consequences of
partitioning your mind [Web log message]. Retrieved from
http://scienceblogs.com/pharyngula/2007/01/the_unfortunate_prerequisites.php
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Pierson, A. (2000). Perceptions of high school faculty of the educational programs held at
libraries. (ERIC Document Reproduction No. ED ### ###)
Rusch, F., Conley, R., & McCaughrin, W. (1993). Benefit-cost analysis of supported
employment in Illinois. Journal of Rehabilitation, 59(2), 31-36.
Silick, T.J., & Schutte, N. S. (2006). Emotional intelligence and self-esteem mediate between
perceived early parental love and adult happiness. E-Journal of Applied Psychology, 2(2),
38-48. Retrieved from http://ojs.lib.swin.edu.au/index.php/ejap
Skrtic, T. M. (1996). Research methods. Menomonie, WI: Plenum Press.
Van Nuys, D. (Producer). (2007, December 19). Shrink rap radio [Audio podcast]. Retrieved
from http://www.shrinkrapradio.com/
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Appendix A: Cover Letter
Include here a copy of the cover letter which would accompany your grant proposal to the
funding agency.
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Appendix B: Type the Title of the Appendix Here
Include other appendices as needed. Examples might include: project evaluation tools, need
assessment, survey results, foundation’s request for proposal, etc. Each new appendix will begin
on a new page and have a letter and title.
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Appendix C: An Introduction to APA Style and Research Paper FAQs.
You’ll find helpful resources for producing your paper at the URLs below
APA Style for UW-Stout Master’s Theses
http://libguides.uwstout.edu/apa_thesis
Research Paper Frequently Asked Questions
http://www.uwstout.edu/grad/faq_paper.html
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Appendix D: How to Complete a Research Project
Complete a Research Project? Yes; you can do it!
So now you’re in graduate school and expected to engage in a culminating research project and
write a paper; you’re beginning to panic. We all know that stepping out of our comfort zone
initiates a growth process and also increases our stress level. So how do you mitigate the amount
of stress associated with the research project process? Here are some tips:



Find comfort in knowing you’re not alone and that scores of people just like you have
successfully completed a research project/paper.
Surround yourself with supportive colleagues – classmates, faculty members, an adviser
with whom you connect. You need a cadre of people to act as sounding boards, editors,
word processing & statistical consultants, etc.
If you’re uncomfortable asking questions, conquer your fear; people become
knowledgeable by asking questions – it’s what a graduate student is supposed to do. After
all, if you knew all the answers you wouldn’t be in school!
Enough of the “warm, fuzzy” stuff; it’s time to get busy on that project!
______________________________________________________________
Where do you start? First of all, understand WHY you’re writing this paper.
Why Complete a Research Project and Write A Research Paper?
The point of this piece of formalized instruction is to help you to understand how:






knowledge is created
to find sources of “scholarly” information
o (Contrary to popular opinion, it’s not all free and available “on the web.” In
fact, access to many of the most reliable sources of information are available
only in electronic databases purchased – for large sums of money - by
libraries for the use of faculty, students & staff at that institution)
to evaluate the reliability of information, i.e., whether items reported as facts have
actually been proven to be true
to analyze and interpret literature
to effectively express important ideas utilizing your insight and ability to analyze
to contribute to a body of knowledge through research and presentation
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How to Begin the Project? Read, Question, Take Notes and Record Citations
1. As you progress through your coursework reading assignments including those in your
textbook, start paying attention to the topics that pique your interest.
2. Begin to identify principal authors and reference works about that topic either by
checking out the in-text citations, the references/bibliography section of the text you’re
reading or by using library tools to identify relevant materials. Make friends with a
Reference Librarian! S/he can be helpful in directing you to relevant materials.
3. As you begin retrieving documents; read the abstracts, they will help you weed out the
articles that are only peripherally related to your interest area.
4. Record the questions that come to you while reading. Read with a critical eye – don’t be
afraid to question the points the researcher is making, the methodology, etc.
5. Notice how the paper is written. If you find a particularly good article in terms of style
and structure, use it as a model for your own paper
6. After you’ve finished reading the article, make summary notes (in your own words
including agreements/disagreements you might have with the author) and record
citations!
7. Narrow your focus down to one question. A typical research project answers one very
narrowly focused question
How to Begin the Paper
1. Create an outline
2. Utilize writing guides to help focus your writing and develop your ability to produce an
effective paper
Numerous research paper writing guides are available. A hepful and practical guide that
includes writing tips for all sections of the research paper, including tips for writing a
quality literature review see:
Brightwell, G. (1998). Writing up Research: The Guidebook. Retrieved
February 8, 2010 from Asian Institute of Technology, Language Center website:
http://www.ait.ac.th/education/LanguageCenter/ait-writing-services/guidebook/index.htm
NOTES:
1. The guide referenced above should be used to assist you in writing your paper. As it
does not use APA formatting style for references, it should not be used in lieu of the
UW-Stout Thesis template for formatting your research paper.
2. For instruction in formatting your paper according to UW-Stout guidelines see the
research paper template at : www.uwstout.edu/grad/research.html
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Appendix E: Crediting Sources - Quoting, Paraphrasing and Plagiarism
Building an accurate knowledge base is a labor-intensive, relatively slow process
that relies on the ethics of each researcher involved. In this electronic era it is easy,
accidently or purposefully, to cut and paste from the work of others and attribute those
ideas to one’s self.
In order to avoid that, every researcher needs to be confident in the methods used
to cite resources, i.e., giving credit to those who helped formulate the ideas outlined in a
paper. Following are excerpts from the American Psychological Association (APA)
Publication Manual
( 6th ed.) regarding the use of references.
Direct Quotations
Credit direct quotations of online material by giving the author, year, and page
number in parentheses. Many electronic sources do not provide page numbers. If
paragraph numbers are visible, use them in place of page numbers. Use the abbreviation
para (p.171).
If the document includes headings and neither paragraph nor page numbers are
visible, cite the heading and the number of the paragraph following it to direct the reader
to the location of the quoted material (p.172).
In some cases in which no page or paragraph numbers are visible, headings may
be too unwieldy to cite in full. Instead, use a short title enclosed in quotation marks for
the parenthetical citation (p. 172).
Paraphrasing
When paraphrasing or referring to an idea contained in another work, you are
encouraged to provide a page or paragraph number, especially when it would help an
interested reader locate the relevant passage in a long of complex text (p. 171).
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Plagiarism
Authors do not present the work of another as if it were their own work. Whether
paraphrasing, quoting an author directly, or describing an idea that influenced your work,
you must credit the source. To avoid charges of plagiarism, take careful notes as you
research to keep track of your sources and cite those sources…(p. 170) .
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