Writing

C1 Level Course

HOW TO WRITE A PROPOSAL

Writing a proposal is similar to but not exactly the same as crafting a persuasive
essay or producing a report. Here are suggestions for developing a proposal, including
some pertinent to its specific purpose:
1. A proposal should define a problem and describe a solution that will
persuade busy, thrifty, skeptical readers to support it.
2. Employ facts, not opinions, to bolster the argument for approval. Research
similar plans or projects and cite them, emphasizing their successes and/or how
your proposal resolves the weaknesses, omissions, or mistaken priorities
apparent in them.
3. Analyze your plan or project, demonstrating possible outcomes. If possible,
model a small-scale version of the plan or project, report on the results, and
extrapolate how the full-scale plan or project will turn out based on the test.
4. Any discussion of financial or other resources should be conducted carefully
and should present a realistic picture of the expense required.
5. Be meticulous in writing, editing, and design of the proposal. Revise as
necessary to make it clear and concise, ask others to critique and edit it, and
make sure the presentation is attractive and engaging as well as well organized
and helpful.

A proposal should include the following elements:

Executive Summary: State the rationale for putting the proposal into effect, and
summarize the proposal. (This allows a decision maker to quickly get the gist of the
proposal, hence the name.)
Statement of Need: Detail why the plan or project the proposal recommends is
necessary.
Project Description: Explain specifics of the plan or project, and how it will go into
effect and how it will be evaluated.
Budget Analysis: Provide and explain how the plan or project will be financed and
categorize and annotate operating expenses.
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 Writing
C1 Level Course

Organization Details: If the proposal is being submitted to an outside party, provide

information about the beneficiary organization, including its mission, its stakeholders
and who its serves, and the scope of its programs and services.
Conclusion: Summarize the proposal’s main points.