Proposal Definition A proposal is a written plan or suggestion. There are different types of proposals, such as grant proposals, research or book proposals. Purpose In a business environment, proposals are written to initiate a professional relationship between the writer and a potentially interested party (a prospective donor, buyer or client ) and gain their (financial) support. The proposal provides information about the project and explains its relevance and purpose for both the writer and the prospective donor/buyer/client, which might also be an organisation or company. Structure and layout Think of a suitable title, and provide a short introduction. State your objective clearly. In the main part of your proposal, emphasise the importance of the project and give details of how it will be implemented. Refer to the prospective or desired outcome (results). Use brief paragraphs for each idea, divide your proposal into sections and give them headings. A grant proposal could, for example, be structured as follows: ■■ Abstract: Provide a brief summary of the project (approximately half a page) – if required. ■■ Statement of need: Outline what the problem is and stress that it can be solved with the grant money. ■■ Project description: Explain how exactly the problem can be solved and emphasise the advantages of your suggested approach. ■■ Goals: Describe the desired outcome. ■■ Action plan: Describe who will do what and how. ■■ Evaluation and results: If required, detail the criteria necessary for monitoring the project and measuring its progress. Style and register The language used in your proposal should be formal. When writing, think of the purpose of your proposal (to persuade) and your target audience (the potential donor/client). You can use ‘I’, but avoid overusing it. Useful expressions The purpose / aim of this proposal is to present / discuss / suggest … I suggest … as it would result in … Consideration should be given to … It would be advisable to … … on the grounds that it … … owing to the fact that … The problem of … can be addressed through … To collect/select/identify …, I would strongly recommend … More steps also need to be taken to … The obvious conclusion to be drawn from these facts is that … I hope/believe/trust you will consider this proposal favourably and that … … the proposal will be given / will receive due consideration. 186 W Writing guide Nur zu Prüfzwecken – Eigentum des Verlags öbv
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