Writing and presenting a dissertation
proposal requires high self-discipline and commitment.
Three essential pre-writing actions:
 Complete preliminary (exploratory) activities
 Learn to be an informed consumer of research:
• Knowledge of the general areas of your research
• Familiarity with research methodologies and designs
 Enhance your awareness of requirements and expectations:
• Components of a proposal
• Structure of a proposal
• Preparation for presentation
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Review
of the
Literature
Significance
Questions
and/or
Hypotheses
Problem Statement
and Purpose
Sampling
Instrumentation
The Research
Method &
Design
Calendar
Data
Analysis
The
Budget
Data
Collection
Procedures
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Clarify the institutional requirements and expectations
of a dissertation proposal format/structure.

Organize your resources, technology tools, and space.

Create a storing system for all dissertation-related documents.

Create detailed outlines before you start writing.

Have all self-help resources handy.

Select the best time and day to concentrate on your writing.

Create specific files with bibliography/direct quotes and sources.

Be a productive emerging scholar.
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Chapter I: Introduction to the Study
Main focus is on: The context of the research area.
It may include:
Importance/rationale
Statement of the problem
Purpose of the study
Research
questions/hypothesis
Brief overview of methodology
Definition of terms
Significance of the study
Delimitations and limitations
Assumptions
It is an overview of the foundational aspects of your proposal.
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Chapter II: Review of the Literature
Main focus is on:
A critical assessment of the extant literature and previous research related to
your topic of investigation.
It may address:
 The context/historical development of the areas of your research
 Major constructs/variables of pervious related studies
 Analytical review of research: scope, conclusions, limitations
 Substantive and methodological implications
 Theoretical framework (if applicable, discuss main constructs and suitability)
It presents a synthesis of what is known and highlights gaps in the
research, serving as a springboard for further investigation.
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Chapter III: Methodology and Procedures
Main focus is on:
A clear and detailed plan of activities to conduct your investigation.
It may include:
 A re-statement of the purpose of the study
 The research questions and hypothesis (if applicable)
 The research method and design
 Selection and description of population and sample (participants and
organizations)
 Data collection instruments
 Data collection procedures
 Data analysis procedures
Calendar of research activities
It should be so complete that another researcher could take it and
conduct the investigation.
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In summary, the research proposal has 3 essential components
that serve as the foundation for an investigation.
Chapter II
Highlights
Chapter I
what is known
Sets the
and illustrates
what needs to
context for
the study.
Research be investigated
Proposal by additional
research.
Chapter III
Presents a thorough
plan to conduct an
investigation.
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The main purpose is to:
Make a compelling and scholarly argument that your research proposal is
solid, valid, and merits an investigation.
 Become familiar with institutional protocols and etiquette.
 Prepare presentation and materials.
 Ask a trusted peer, professor or mentor to read your drafts and offer
constructive feedback.
 Invite dissertation committee members.
 Confirm proposal date, time, and place.
 Present proposal using appropriate terminology and technology-based aids.
 Be a focused and respectful listener.
 Respond to questions in a scholarly manner.
“Be Professional”
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mnovando@austin.utexas.edu
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