Plan Your Project
Starting a proposal can feel daunting, but having a clear plan makes it manageable.
From asking the right planning questions to crafting a strong Letter of Intent (LOI) or full proposal. Find tips on gaining departmental support, budgeting, and writing compelling narratives.
Project Planning Questions
A list of questions to think about when planning your proposal project.
Approvals and budgeting
Important information about gaining departmental support and information on budgeting.
Guidelines for Letters of Intent (LOI)
Basic guidelines and tips for writing an LOI.
Guidelines for Proposals
Proposals should have these basic elements, unless the funder specifies otherwise. Here's a guide on creating a compelling narrative within your proposal.
Additional Resources
How to Fail in Grant Writing
Excellent article by accomplished UMass PIs about proven, proposal, writing techniques. By Elizabeth Jakob, Adam Porter, Jeffrey Podos, Barry Braun, Norman Johnson, and Stephen Vessey from the Chronicle of Higher Education, 12/5/10
Strengthen Your Research Plan—Dos and Don'ts
An NIH article on how to simplify and strengthen your research plan.
Explaining Your Science—Tips for Clear Communication
An NIH article on using "plain language" to talk and write about research in a clear, uncomplicated way.