University of Calgary Assignment Tracker

Paper Proposal

1. Step 1: Look at assignment requirements
   Percent time spent on this step: 5%

   Instructions:

   The assignment sheet or marking schema is the most valuable resource. Don’t quickly skim through it and write the assignment that you think it should be. Look at both the guidelines from the proposal and the final paper.  How can the work you do on the proposal prepare you for the final paper? Set aside at least a half hour to methodically go through this resource. For tips on getting the most from your assignment sheet, you may want to use Reading Your Assignment Sheet.
2. Step 2: Review course materials and themes
   Percent time spent on this step: 10%

   Instructions:

   Choosing a topic can be challenging. Rather that picking a topic and then trying to figure out if it works, start with what you know. Review the materials for the course and your notes.  Use the proposal to further your knowledge about a subject, issue, or idea that has only be partly discussed in class.        
3. Step 3: Develop a topic
   Percent time spent on this step: 5%

   Instructions:

   Some instructors give students a focused topic for their paper. Others allow students to pick something that is relevant to the course. When given free range on a paper, the first topic that comes to mind isn’t always the best. Try working through various brainstorming activities. Some suggestions are available in Developing Ideas.
4. Step 4: Do background research
   Percent time spent on this step: 15%

   Instructions:

   Background research gives you a foundation for your research topic. You should discover definitions of key terms, understand the key issues, and be aware of important dates and events. Encyclopedias and dictionaries are good examples of resources for background information. 
5. Step 5: Develop your research question
   Percent time spent on this step: 5%

   Instructions:

   Many paper proposals will require students to posit a research question or sample thesis. Before you jump into proposal writing, draft a couple of options. As you gather sources on the topic, you can select and refine one that best fits.  For ideas, try working through Developing a Thesis Statement.             
6. Step 6: Review the litereature in the field (a.k.a. read some scholarly sources)
   Percent time spent on this step: 15%

   Instructions:

   Because your goal is to construct a paper based on this material, you will want to read in an engaged manner. It can be useful to document your reaction with the text. Imagine it is a conversation where you pose questions and comments in the margins. Typically you may want to consider responding to topics, such as the author’s intention, the author’s assumption, the author’s method or methodology, the author’s data or source material, the author’s choices or style of presentations, and the author’s contribution to knowledge on the topic.  These notes will lead into the paper. Take the time to paraphrase key ideas, rather than cutting and pasting quotations.
7. Step 7: Outline and draft proposal
   Percent time spent on this step: 30%

   Instructions:

   It can be difficult to figure out an outline for your project. Before you jump into paper writing, it is a good idea to reflect on what you know and how these pieces fit together.  For tips, check out Figuring Out an Outline. Start by writing the material and points with which you are most comfortable. Leave the introduction and conclusion till the end. Start by focusing on your strengths.  Remember to stay motivated through this part of the process. Consider the strategies in Staying Motivated to concentrate on the task.
8. Step 8: Review proposal and double check citations
   Percent time spent on this step: 10%

   Instructions:

   Now that you have written all the sections, it’s time to put it together. Make sure that the pieces fit together. Add topic sentences and other transitions to make it flow. You might want to read your proposal aloud, so you can hear when there is an error.

   Most research proposals require a bibliography. Instructors want to ensure that you can find sources on your topic and that these resources are appropriate. Perfect citations are a great first impression, telling your reader that you have attention to detail. Don’t forget, borrowing ideas from external sources without citing is considered plagiarism and is a serious academic offense. For more information, you may want to review Plagiarism: What is it and How to Avoid It.  There are several citation styles used in various disciplines throughout the university.  The most common in the Arts and Social Sciences are APA, Chicago, and MLA. In the Sciences, the most common styles are APA, CSE, and Vancouver. Always check if your instructor has a preferred style.         
9. Step 9: Read instructor's feedback
   Percent time spent on this step: 5%

   Instructions:

   It may be tempting to forget about your proposal. Read your feedback because it offers insights into the professor’s mind set. The comments may highlight things to avoid for the final paper. The comments may offer ways of refining your topic. Sometime professors even note relevant sources. By reading these comments and talking to your professor, you can get the inside track on your final paper.