The Secret Of Writing A Dissertation Proposal Background

The Dissertation Proposal Background: How To Compose It Properly

Perhaps the most important part of the entire dissertation process is the proposal itself. With an approved and signed off on the proposal, in fact, research cannot even begin. While most universities have a specific process to follow, there are vast similarities among all that will help any graduate student move along the path to success

• Problem to be studied - The first step and perhaps the most critical is to decide on a problem that is to be researched. As dissertations are designed to add to existing research, not merely summarize it, a new problem should be introduced that is both interesting to the researcher, and to the academic community. Such issues will get the attention of the dissertation committee and increase the likelihood that the proposal will be approved on the first attempt.


• Use the Forms provided by the University or Research Institution - As mentioned, each university will likely have a slightly different format that must be followed. It is essential that the graduate student learn what forms must completed, permissions granted, and what information is required related to the proposal in order for it to be approved. These forms are critically important because they form part of the entire student researcher file, and they form the basis for the actual study that will be conducted in the future.


• Define the Population - Most dissertation topics will involve researching a special population, so this must be defined within the proposal itself. Universities will want to know who you intend to study, how you will garner participants, and how issues of confidentiality and ethics will be addressed throughout the process. Assuming you cover these bases, you will be well on your way to approval as the university or research institution wants to ensure that their interests are protected as well.


• Backgrounds of the Problem - Finally, use the proposal process to not define the problem to be studied, but to give the dissertation committee a complete background of the problem itself. Define why the problem is important; the populations that it affects and give any other special information that you feel warrants completing a dissertation on this topic in the first place.

Following these steps will not ensure that your proposal passes on the first attempt, but they will certainly position you for a successful start. The proposal, once approved, gives you permission to begin your research in earnest, so prepare to dive in and enjoy the journey.