proposal essay definition

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Ultimate guide to writing a proposal essay, carla johnson.

• June 14, 2023
• Essay Topics and Ideas , How to Guides

If you’re a student, it’s likely that you’ve been asked to write a proposal essay at some point. A proposal essay is an academic piece of writing that tries to persuade the reader to do something or take a certain point of view. In this article, we’ll show you the best way to write a proposal essay that gets accepted.

What You'll Learn

What is a proposal essay?

A proposal essay is a type of academic writing in which the writer suggests an idea or solution to a problem and then backs up that suggestion with evidence. The proposal can take many different shapes, but it usually involves pointing out a problem or issue , suggesting a solution or course of action, and giving evidence to back up that solution or action.

Why are proposal essays important?

Proposal essays are important because they give students a chance to look into tough problems and come up with solutions that could change the world. By writing a proposal essay, students learn how to find and analyze information, think critically , and explain their ideas clearly. These skills are useful not only in school, but also in a lot of professional settings.

Thesis statement

In this article , we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide to writing a proposal essay that will help you win over your audience and get your proposal accepted. We’ll cover everything from choosing a topic to formatting your essay , so you can be sure that you’re presenting your ideas in the most persuasive and effective way possible.

Choosing a Topic

Before you can start writing your proposal essay, you need to choose a topic. There are several factors to consider when choosing a topic, including your personal interests, the scope of the project, and the needs of your audience. Here are some tips to help you choose a great proposal essay topic:

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Topic

1. Your Interests: Choose a topic that you are passionate about or interested in. This will make the research and writing process more enjoyable and engaging.

2. Relevance: Choose a topic that is relevant to your audience or community. This will make your proposal more compelling and increase the likelihood of it being accepted.

3. Feasibility: Choose a topic that is feasible within the scope of your project . Make sure you have access to the resources and information needed to effectively research and support your proposal.

Brainstorming Techniques

Once you have considered these factors, it’s time to start brainstorming potential topics. Here are some techniques to help you generate ideas:

1. Mind Mapping: Create a visual map of your ideas, starting with a central topic and branching out into related subtopics.

2. Freewriting: Set a timer for 10-15 minutes and write down everything that comes to mind about a particular topic. Don’t worry about grammar or structure – just let your ideas flow.

3. Listing: Make a list of potential topics and then narrow it down based on the factors mentioned above.

Examples of Proposal Essay Topics

Here are some examples of proposal essay topics to help inspire your brainstorming:

1. Should college athletes be paid?

2. How can we reduce plastic waste in our community?

3. Should schools require students to wear uniforms?

4. How can we improve mental health resources for college students?

5. Should the minimum wage be increased?

6. How can we reduce the gender pay gap ?

7. Should the government provide free healthcare to all citizens?

8. How can we reduce the carbon footprint of our city?

9. Should there be stricter gun control laws?

10. How can we improve public transportation in our city?

Researching Your Topic

Once you have chosen a topic for your proposal essay, it’s time to conduct thorough research . This will involve gathering information from a variety of sources, evaluating their credibility, and organizing your findings in a way that supports your proposal.

Conducting Thorough Research

The first step in researching your topic is to identify credible sources of information. These may include academic journals, books, government reports, and reputable news sources. Use a variety of sources to ensure that you are getting a balanced and well-rounded perspective on your topic.

Evaluating Sources

Not all sources are created equal, so it’s important to evaluate each source for its credibility and relevance to your topic. Consider the following factors when evaluating sources:

1. Authorship: Who wrote the source, and what are their credentials?

2. Currency: How recent isthe information in the source? Is it still relevant?

3. Accuracy: Is the information in the source accurate and supported by evidence?

4. Bias: Does the source have a particular bias or agenda that may affect its credibility?

Taking Notes and Organizing Information

As you conduct your research, it’s important to take detailed notes and organize your information in a way that supports your proposal essay. Some effective note-taking strategies include:

1. Summarizing: Write a brief summary of key points and information from each source.

2. Quoting: Use direct quotes from sources to support your argument.

3. Paraphrasing: Restate information from sources in your own words, making sure to cite the source.

Once you have taken notes, organize them into an outline or mind map to help you structure your essay and ensure that your proposal is well-supported by evidence.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your proposal essay is well-researched, well-supported, and persuasive. In the next section, we’ll discuss how to effectively outline and structure your essay for maximum impact.

Outlining Your Proposal

Once you’ve chosen a topic and conducted thorough research , it’s time to create an outline for your proposal essay. An outline will help you organize your thoughts and ensure that your proposal is well-structured and easy to follow. Here are some tips for creating an effective proposal essay outline:

Creating a Proposal Essay Outline

1. Introduction: Begin with an attention-grabbing introduction that provides context for your proposal and sets the stage for your argument.

2. Background Information: Provide background information on your topic, including any relevant statistics, research, or historical context.

3. Problem Statement: Clearly state the problem or issue that your proposal addresses.

4. Proposed Solution: Present your proposed solution or course of action, providing evidence to support its effectiveness.

5. Implementation: Discuss how your proposed solution would be implemented and what steps would need to be taken to make it a reality.

6. Conclusion: Summarize your proposal and reiterate its importance, urging your audience to take action.

Tips for Effective Outlining

– Use bullet points or numbered lists to clearly organize your ideas.

– Make sure each section of your outline relates back to your thesis statement .

– Keep your outline concise and to the point.

Example Proposal Essay Outline

Here is an example proposal essay outline for a topic on reducing plastic waste in a community:

I. Introduction

– Attention-grabbing opening sentence

– Background information on plastic waste

– Thesis statement

II. Problem Statement

-Description of the problem of plastic waste in the community

– Statistics on the amount of plastic waste generated in the community

– Impact of plastic waste on the environment and health

III. Proposed Solution

– Proposal to ban single-use plastics in the community

– Alternatives to single-use plastics

– Benefits of reducing plastic waste

IV. Implementation

– Steps to implement the proposed ban on single-use plastics

– Timeline for implementation

– Strategies for community education and outreach

V. Conclusion

– Recap of the problem and proposed solution

– Call to action for community members to support the ban on single-use plastics

V. Writing Your Proposal

Now that you have a solid outline for your proposal essay, it’s time to begin writing. Here are some tips for crafting a strong proposal essay:

Crafting a Strong Introduction

Your introduction should grab the reader’s attention and provide context for your proposal. Here are some tips for crafting a strong introduction:

– Start with a hook, such as a surprising statistic, quote, or anecdote.

– Provide background information on your topic to help the reader understand the context of your proposal.

– Clearly state the problem or issue that your proposal addresses.

Writing the Body of Your Proposal

The body of your proposal essay should provide evidence to support your proposed solution. Here are some tips for writing the body of your proposal:

– Use research and statistics to support your proposal.

– Provide examples and case studies to illustrate the effectiveness of your proposed solution.

– Address Potential counterarguments and provide rebuttals to strengthen your argument.

Tips for Persuasive Writing

To make your proposal essay as persuasive as possible, here are some tips to keep in mind:

– Use strong, clear language that conveys your confidence in your proposal.

– Make sure your argument is logical and well-supported by evidence .

– Use emotional appeals sparingly and only when appropriate.

– Use transitional phrases to connect your ideas and ensure a smooth flow of information.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when writing your proposal essay:

– Failing to clearly state the problem or issue you are addressing.

– Presenting a solution that is not feasible or practical .

– Failing to address potential counterarguments or objections to your proposal.

– Overusing emotional appeals or providing insufficient evidence to support your argument.

By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can craft a persuasive and effective proposal essay that will convince your audience to take action.

Refining Your Proposal

Once you’ve written a draft of your proposal essay, it’s important to refine it through careful editing and revision. Here are some tips to help you refine your proposal essay:

Editing and Revising Your Proposal

– Review your essay for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.

– Make sure your writing is clear, concise, and easy to understand.

– Check that your proposal is well-supported by evidence and that your arguments are logical.

– Look for areas where you can improve the flow and organization of your essay .

Peer Review and Feedback

It’s also a good idea to get feedback from others to help you refine your proposal essay. Here are some tips for getting feedback:

– Ask a peer or mentor to review your essay and provide feedback on areas that need improvement.

– Consider joining a writing group or seeking feedback from an online community.

– Take the feedback you receive seriously and use it to improve your essay .

Finalizing Your Proposal

Once you’ve made revisions based on feedback and edited your essay for clarity and accuracy, it’s time to finalize your proposal. Here are some final steps to take:

– Review your essay one last time to ensure it is error-free and well-organized.

– Make sure your essay is formatted correctly, with appropriate headings, margins, and font size.

– Create a bibliography or works cited page to provide proper credit to your sources.

Proposal Essay Examples

To help you understand what makes a successful proposal essay,here are some examples of effective proposal essays:

1. “Implementing a School-Wide Recycling Program” – This proposal essay outlines a plan to implement a recycling program in a high school. It provides a clear problem statement, proposed solution, and implementation plan , as well as statistics and research to support the proposal. The essay also addresses potential objections and provides rebuttals.

2. “Increasing Access to Healthy Food in Low-Income Communities” – This proposal essay proposes a solution to the problem of food insecurity in low-income communities. It provides a clear problem statement, proposed solution, and implementation plan, as well as research to support the proposal. The essay also addresses potential objections and provides rebuttals.

3. “Reducing Gun Violence in the United States” – This proposal essay proposes a solution to the problem of gun violence in the United States. It provides a clear problem statement, proposed solution, and implementation plan, as well as statistics and research to support the proposal. The essay also addresses potential objections and provides rebuttals.

Analysis of What Makes These Proposals Effective

These proposal essays are effective because they:

– Clearly state the problem or issue they are addressing.

– Provide a well-supported proposal or solution.

– Address potential objections and provide rebuttals.

– Use research and statistics to support their proposals.

– Provide a clear implementation plan.

– Use clear and persuasive language.

By analyzing successful proposal essays, you can gain insight into what makes a proposal effective and use thoseinsights to improve your own proposal essay. Remember to carefully research your topic , create a clear and well-supported proposal, and address potential objections to make your proposal as persuasive as possible. With these tips and examples in mind, you’ll be well on your way to writing a winning proposal essay.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. what are the elements of a proposal essay.

A proposal essay typically includes an introduction, background information, a problem statement, a proposed solution, an implementation plan, and a conclusion. It should also be well-supported by evidence and address potential objections.

2. How do I choose a topic for a proposal essay?

When choosing a topic for a proposal essay, consider your personal interests, the relevance of the topic to your audience or community, and the feasibility of the proposal within the scope of your project.

3. What is a proposal essay structure?

A proposal essay typically follows a structure that includes an introduction, background information, a problem statement, a proposed solution, an implementation plan, and a conclusion. Each section should be well-supported by evidence.

Writing a winning proposal essay requires careful research, persuasive writing, and effective organization. By choosing a relevant and feasible topic, conducting thorough research, creating a well-supported proposal, and refining your essay through editing and revision, you can create a persuasive and effective proposal essay that inspires action.

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414 Proposal Essay Topics for Projects, Research, & Proposal Arguments

Writing a proposal essay is an essential skill for students navigating academia and beyond. Whether you are advocating for change, proposing a solution to a problem, or presenting a new idea, your writing should be clear, convincing, and creative.

In this article, our expert team has listed proposal essay topics for school and college students. As a bonus, you will find an effective writing guide and a practical example of a proposal essay.

🔤 What Is a Proposal Essay?

• ⭐ Best Topics in 2024
• 💡 Easy Topics & Prompts

📝 Proposal Argument Topics

• 📊 Project Proposal Ideas
• 🔎 Research Proposal Topics
• 😄 Funny Topics

🧩 Proposal Essay Structure

• ✍️ Writing Guide
• 📃 Proposal Essay Example

🔗 References

A proposal essay is an academic paper in which you propose something and justify your recommendation. Its goal is to convince the recipients to support your proposal and grant your request. Depending on what you are suggesting, there are three main types of proposal essays: proposal argument, research proposal, and topic proposal.

What Is a Proposal Argument Essay?

A proposal argument is an argumentative essay that offers a solution to a problem. It is often addressed to a particular company, non-profit organization, or government agency. It aims to persuade an organization to do something differently or perform a specific task. A proposal argument first describes a problem, then proposes a feasible solution to it, and explains why this particular solution is worth implementing.

What Is a Research Proposal Essay?

A research proposal essay is an academic paper that proposes a study and describes what, why, and how the author plans to investigate. This document should enable the audience to understand the quality and significance of the research and the author’s competence to perform it.

A research proposal usually includes a purpose statement , background and significance of the research topic, and methodology. It is also helpful to describe potential problems the researcher may encounter and how they will be solved.

What Is a Topic Proposal?

A topic proposal essay is a paper that suggests a topic for a major course assignment, such as a term paper. It usually presents your main argument or research question , explains why it is worth exploring, and outlines how you plan to support it. Also, it identifies a few scholarly sources to be used in the future paper.

⭐ 12 Best Proposal Essay Topics in 2024

• The methods of reducing childhood obesity.
• Do awareness campaigns increase funding for cancer research?
• Why should schools add sex education to their curricula?
• The role of government in protecting local businesses.
• How to prevent cybercrime.
• The impact of rap music on teenagers.
• Do high cigarette prices reduce smoking rates?
• The efficiency of using AI technology in education.
• Why should the use of steroids be banned?
• The use of art therapy in combating anxiety.
• How can we combat the global warming?
• The issue of bullying in high school.

💡 Easy Proposal Writing Topics & Prompts

Coming up with a good idea for your proposal essay can be challenging. Therefore, we’ve prepared writing prompts about common problems with possible solutions.

Proposal Essay on Texting and Driving

You can write a proposal suggesting a solution to the problem of driving while using a phone. First, describe the detrimental consequences of such behavior, proving that it’s worth paying attention to.

Then, focus on one solution that you consider to be the best. Check out some possible options:

• Formation of a driver safety culture.
• Implementation of a driver coaching program.
• Use of real-time technology.
• Execution of severe punishment.

Homelessness Proposal Essay

Highlight the issue of homelessness by indicating the root causes of this problem and its social and economic consequences. Then, provide your perspective on how to address it.

Here are some possible solutions to homelessness:

• Rapid rehousing .
• Permanent supportive or shared housing.
• New career opportunities.
• Volunteer initiatives.

Mental Health Proposal Essay

You can focus on the problem of the mental health crisis, manifesting in increasing rates of suicides and overdoses. Explore the causes and consequences of this issue and choose a solution to advocate for.

Consider the following solutions:

• Investments in mental health apps .
• Universal mental health screenings.
• Raising people’s awareness of the problem.
• Expanding access to psychological help.

Study Abroad Proposal Essay

You can focus on one of the issues that students face while studying abroad, such as language barriers, cultural differences, social isolation, financial difficulties, etc. Then, describe a solution to your selected problem.

Here are some possible solutions to international students’ issues:

• Encouraging access to college resources.
• The use of host families.
• Establishing safe spaces on campuses .
• Offering financial support and scholarships.
• Conducting campus-wide cultural sensitivity training.

Abortion Proposal Essay

Your proposal can focus on the problem of supporting and expanding abortion rights. Explain how restricted abortion rights harm women, children, the healthcare system, and the economy. Then, explain how policymakers can address this issue.

Check out some solutions listed below:

• Public and private insurance coverage of abortion.
• Sex education for students.
• Legal protections for abortion.
• Prohibition of violence against abortion providers .

The proposal argument analyzes the problem and offers practical steps for its solution. Below, you’ll find interesting topics for your proposal argument!

Proposal Argument Essay Topics with Solutions

• The use of replanting in combating climate change.
• ABZ Cleaning Services marketing plan proposal.
• Negotiation to stop military conflicts in the world.
• Water disinfection and its efficiency in solving water pollution issues.
• A business proposal for Kohl’s: improving product delivery.
• Universal basic income to combat poverty.
• The use of free education centers in improving people’s knowledge.
• Luckin Coffee business problems-solutions proposal.
• Ensuring refugees’ access to the labor market to protect their rights.
• Decriminalization of homosexuality to protect LGBTQ+ rights .
• Nestlé Inc.’s total quality challenge and solution.
• The use of media in raising awareness of gender inequality.
• Ensuring basic healthcare to protect children’s rights.
• Food prices increase: causes and solutions.
• The use of renewable energy to stop global temperatures rising.
• Well-thought-out strategic plan to combat self-doubt in business.
• Operations management: problem and solution.
• Education about consumer responsibility to stop overconsumption.
• The efficiency of book exchange for the promotion of reading.
• Human resource management: problems and solutions.
• Reduced cost of education to combat education inequality.
• Electronic voting systems to increase citizen participation.
• Truancy: causes, effects, and possible solutions .
• AI technology and its application to help people with disabilities.
• The effectiveness of wetland restoration in combating sanitation insecurity.
• American educational system’s drawbacks and solutions.
• Surveys of employee satisfaction to manage workflow.
• The efficiency of the Arms Trade Treaty in decreasing weapons accessibility.
• Sexual assault problem and solution.
• Improved nutrition and sustainable agriculture to combat health inequality .

Practical Proposal Argument Ideas

• Building buyer personas to find new customers.
• Employee absenteeism and business proposal to address it.
• Companies should make a shorter workweek to reduce unemployment.
• Vertical farming technologies for improved land usage.
• Proposal of employee training in Coca-Cola Company.
• Plasma reactors as a way to create oxygen on Mars.
• Community-based initiatives to encourage social interaction.
• Organizational change proposal for healthcare institutions .
• Entrepreneurship promotion to solve the wealth inequality issue.
• Prioritizing border security to ensure national safety.
• Public health legislation funding proposal .
• Donating to charities to address third-world poverty.
• Nutrition education to reduce obesity rates.
• Business communication: proposal for receiving investment.
• Implementation of Instagram restrictions to protect the self-esteem of teenagers.
• The use of ADAS technologies to reduce the frequency of car accidents.
• Vending machine “Great Coffee”: business proposal.
• Employers should provide flexible hours to help workers with anxiety.
• Expanding the range of services offered by postal providers to save postal service.
• Wok to Walk: marketing plan proposal.
• Work-life balance practices to prevent burnout at work.
• Schools should implement year-round classes to improve student performance.
• Cartier marketing analysis and strategy proposal for the post-pandemic era.
• Application of sunscreen to reduce the risks of skin cancer .
• Installation of sports facilities to encourage the population’s physical activity .
• Leverage buyout proposal for CSL Limited.
• Education about consumer responsibility to solve gun control issues.
• Development of water resource management systems to avoid water scarcity.
• Business ethics: business proposal for CEO.
• The government should launch mHealth apps to make healthcare accessible.

📊 Project Proposal Ideas for College Students

Looking for a project proposal topic to write about? Below, you’ll find the best ideas for your paper!

Project Proposal Title Ideas in Health

• The ban on tobacco to prevent illness and premature death.
• Pressure ulcers: research proposal .
• Recovery groups and their role in stopping substance abuse .
• The efficiency of sex education in solving HIV/AIDS issues.
• Community teaching work plan proposal: tuberculosis in Miami .
• Accessible treatment centers to help people struggling with suicidal behavior .
• Pediatric dentist training to create a positive experience for children.
• Hospital-acquired pressure ulcers treatment proposal .
• Water and sanitation projects to reduce water-borne disease rates.
• The efficiency of regular balance training in preventing injuries.
• Interdisciplinary plan proposal of a local hospital: objective and team organization .
• Free screening for the early identification of breast cancer .
• Workplace wellness initiatives to protect employee mental health.
• Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting: research proposal .
• The use of online apps to improve patient-doctor communication .
• Geriatric care innovations to meet the health demands of the elderly.
• Hypertension prevention plan proposal .
• Machine learning and AI technology in the personalization of healthcare.
• The effectiveness of parental courses to prevent children obesity .
• Patient safety policy proposal .
• Yoga promotion programs to improve mental health.
• E-health platforms for remote monitoring of chronic conditions .
• Capstone project change proposal: new staffing policy .
• Women’s medical literature and its role in preventing maternal deaths.
• Accessible mental health services to decrease depression rates.
• Dementia: health promotion proposal .
• The use of a healthy diet in preventing cancers and diabetes.
• Vaccine access in poor countries to promote immunization .
• A bed alarm budget proposal for healthcare .
• Educational programs for parents to promote oral health at home .

Project Proposal Topics for Business

• The use of verification links to stop online scamming.
• Ocean Beauty Center: business proposal.
• Customer experience technology to deliver positive customer experience.
• Research into competitors to create a better brand presence.
• Service marketing plan proposal.
• The use of Amazon and eBay to pitch and brand your product.
• Instant online help tools to prevent shopping cart abandonment.
• Notes Restore: business plan proposal.
• The efficiency of valuable content in maintaining customer loyalty.
• Unique products to thrive in a competitive market.
• Avlon: market research proposal.
• The use of plain English in preventing product returns and refunds.
• Increasing sales by offering a product at a reduced price.
• Business proposal: a fitness center in Australia.
• Employment of cybersecurity services to protect a corporate website from viruses.
• The use of a recruitment agency to find qualified IT personnel.
• Leisure facility in Sherbury: business proposal.
• Regular developer training to save business during a crisis.
• Optimization of website speed through efficient coding.
• Talent management plan proposal.
• The use of the latest updates to solve unreliable internet connectivity issues.
• Mobile-friendly apps to improve customer support.
• Southwest Airlines human resource recruitment plan proposal.
• Authentic customer reviews to solve customer trust issues.
• The use of multi-factor authentication to maintain payment security.
• Emotional intelligence training proposal.
• Chatbots and their role in solving poor customer support issues.
• Workplace diversity and inclusion for fast business development.
• Utah Symphony and Utah Opera: merger proposal.
• The efficiency of social media influencers in business promotion.

Project Proposal Ideas for STEM Students

• Floating gardens and rafts to grow food during a flood.
• The use of innovative city technologies for solving a city’s design needs.
• Navigating the engineering talent crisis.
• Accessible infrastructure to improve the lives of people with disabilities.
• Chemical dispersants to clean up an oil spill.
• New technologies in retail supply chains.
• The use of heat-absorbing materials to construct solar ovens.
• AI healthcare diagnostics to provide patients with accurate results.
• Uber case study: online technology development.
• The use of monitoring systems to protect endangered species.
• Making technologies more inclusive to help people with autism .
• How can technology be used in healthcare ?
• Aerospace engineering strategies to ensure safe flights.
• Eco-friendly packaging to stop plastic pollution.
• How new heart-scanning technology could save your life .
• Building earthquake-resistant structures to ensure urban safety.
• The use of biodegradable plastics to reduce environmental impact.
• Use of mathematics in a vocational context.
• Building seawalls to protect beach erosion.
• Solar farms for the production of renewable energy.
• Computerized sewerage system in Bedford Town.
• Creating artificial organs to save patients waiting for transplantation .
• Increasing microbial diversity to create a healthy and balanced soil ecosystem.
• Computerized accounting in an enterprise resource planning system.
• Early warning systems to save vulnerable areas from flood.
• The use of vitamin C bath to stop apple oxidization.
• Effective supply chain practices for computer and phone repair shop.
• Integration of damping systems to build earthquake-resistant structures.
• AI technology to design resistant bridges in urban areas.

Project Proposal Topics for Students in Education

• Funding for low-income schools to solve the problem of education access.
• Digital citizenship education proposal in Saudi Arabia.
• Inclusive teaching as a solution to inequalities in education.
• Students’ portfolios as a better alternative to standardized testing.
• Standardized testing: research proposal.
• Incentives for teachers to provide highly professional classes.
• Increasing federal school funding to improve education in low-income areas.
• York College OneCard proposal.
• A peer tutoring program to improve students’ performance.
• Parent-teacher conferences to address a lack of parental involvement.
• Proposal for the New National Constitution of Libya.
• Mentorship programs to cope with ineffective teaching methods.
• Anti-bullying policies to maintain a more positive school climate.
• Proposal to reduce college textbook cost.
• Video chats to address a lack of face-to-face communication in online courses.
• Study skills workshops to cope with students’ poor study habits.
• Virtual simulation curriculum technology proposal.
• Flexible learning environments to help students with anxiety disorder.
• The use of a rewards system to increase school attendance.
• How semester exams affect students’ emotional stability: article proposal.
• Monitoring cameras to ensure school safety and security.
• Anti-cheating measures to solve the issue of academic dishonesty.
• Analysis of student equity plan proposal.
• Additional facilities to accommodate the growing number of students.
• Global education partnerships to make higher education more accessible.
• Education issues: group proposal.
• Innovative classrooms to develop the creativity of students with disabilities.
• Introducing a financial literacy class to improve students’ money management skills.
• Proposal for the creation of K2 and K3-5 reading interventions.
• Launching a community service learning program to promote social responsibility.

Project Proposal Ideas for Students about Environment

• Buying e-books to protect the environment.
• The issue of environmental pollution by Polipaks Group.
• Extensive afforestation campaign to solve the deforestation problem.
• Low consumption levels to avoid adverse ecological consequences.
• Solar energy as an alternative energy source.
• Fines and punishment to reduce illegal dumping.
• Reusing things to stop climate change.
• Business model of renewable energy.
• Reducing single-use plastics on campus.
• Collecting sunlight for energy to stop natural resource depletion.
• Sustainable gas production in the UAE.
• Tree planting programs to protect the environment.
• Eco-friendly transportation methods to reduce carbon emissions.
• Sustainable practices in the Coca-Cola Company.
• Sustainable fashion and its role in reducing clothes consumption.
• High taxes for activities that harm our planet to support eco-friendly behavior.
• Carbon tax in the Australian industries.
• Limiting time on the road to reduce vehicle emissions.
• Supporting green businesses to encourage eco-friendly initiatives.
• Optimizing food production to improve quality, reduce cost, and prevent waste.
• Clean-up programs to remove litter and pollutants from public spaces.
• Green roof technologies to mitigate the urban heat island effect.
• Business plan: New Age Recyclers.
• A carbon offset project to engage businesses in environment protection.
• Education courses for people of any age to reduce their ecological footprint.
• Recycling batteries: market analysis for a new product.
• Replantation of native trees and plants to stop environmental degradation.
• Investing in solar panels to solve the energy consumption problem.
• Stanford University’s Habitat Conservation Plan.
• Choosing recyclables to decrease waste production.

🔎 Research Proposal Essay Topics

If you’re looking for research proposal essay topics, check out the list below! We’ve collected ideas for a proposal in computer science, agriculture, history, and more.

• Career counseling to support high school students.
• Project proposal for counseling centers.
• The effectiveness of advertisement in increasing brand awareness.
• The reliability of criminological analysis in identifying the offender’s personality.
• Research proposal on Ipad from Apple Inc.
• Remote workplaces to save the small business during pandemics.
• New therapeutic approaches to neurodevelopmental disorders .
• Research proposal: stress in the UK (England).
• The effects of socioeconomic status on access to quality education.
• The effectiveness of regular self-analysis in overcoming the psychological trauma of rape.
• Mitigation of supply chain risk in disasters: research proposal.
• Race to the Top program to improve students’ outcomes.
• Effective business communication practices contributing to business growth.
• A research proposal on banks and customer satisfaction.
• Psychological tricks of media to exploit impulsive buying.
• The advantages of using antipsychotics for preventing delirium .
• Congestive heart failure: research proposal .
• Therapies for school students to stop substance abuse.
• Controlling school attendance to improve children’s social skills.
• Research proposal: background of the problem of handoff communication in nursing .
• The impact of urbanization on biodiversity preservation.
• Trade globalization to create more job opportunities around the world.
• Research proposal: Chlamydia Trachomatis .
• Increase the age of smoking to 25 to reduce lung cancer rates .
• Potential effects of stricter laws on corruption and transparency.
• Primary prevention of HIV & AIDS: community teaching work plan proposal .
• The effectiveness of smart home systems in reducing energy consumption.
• Testing AI technologies to improve children’s diagnostics and treatment.
• High-performance work system proposal for workers.
• Including mental health topics in the school curriculum to protect students’ mental health.
• Paid vacations to support nurses’ emotional health.
• Non-profit National Kidney Foundation’s strategy proposal.
• Meditation to treat mental disorders nonchemically during pregnancy.
• Workplace diversity and its role in increasing business productivity.
• Business proposal report for a child day care.
• Face-to-face games to promote healthy child development.
• Investigating the relationship between sleep patterns and mental health in youth.

Proposal Essay Ideas in Computer Science

• New AI approaches to decrease the energy consumption of 5G networks.
• Informatics solution proposal: general solution – EHR .
• Ways to ensure data privacy in machine learning models.
• Exploring new applications of quantum computing.
• DesignIT Company: network consultation proposal.
• AI in art: exploring the boundaries between art and technology.
• Cognitive radio networks for improving future wireless systems.
• Informatics solution proposal for a supply issue .
• Quantum computing to advance medical predictive systems.
• Using NLP for code generation to increase software development productivity.
• Techfite firm’s emerging technology proposal.
• Developing methods to make AI algorithms more transparent to users.
• Investigating novel biometric authentication methods.
• ElekTron Company’s network design proposal.
• Methods to detect and mitigate biases in AI systems.
• Usability in computer interface to ensure effective human-computer interactions.
• Advanced education in computational science.
• 3D object modeling to improve the architecture of large cities.
• The use of one programming language to cut the costs of programming training.
• Computer technologies to be installed at TVU Hotel.
• Constant feedback to minimize algorithmic bias in AI technologies.
• The use of computers to sequence human genes.
• Data science in the energy management field.
• Using machine learning for optimizing traffic flow in a smart city.
• AI-based approaches to the early detection and mitigation of cyber threats.
• The development of an information system to support inventory management.
• The use of AI in automatic data analysis.
• Web-based monitoring to improve healthcare services.
• Scrum methodology to develop Agile software.

Interesting Proposal Essay Topics for Agriculture

• The use of social media to improve agricultural marketing.
• How China’s agricultural reform contributed to its success on economic growth.
• Organic farming to minimize pollution from agriculture.
• Farmer organizations to implement effective agricultural transformation procedures.
• Financial profile of Oman Agriculture Development Company SAOG.
• Increased availability of fertile land to prevent the agricultural land shortage.
• Modern farming technology to solve the issue of inadequate drainage.
• Obstacles and barriers of AIS in agriculture companies.
• The use of antibiotics alternatives in animal agriculture for public health.
• E-commerce platforms to promote farming on social media.
• Al Ain Poultry Farm: management strategy and policy.
• The incorporation of ecological practices into agricultural systems to protect the planet.
• Maintaining ground cover to restore soil health and biodiversity.
• Case study of Holly Farm: problems and solutions.
• Farmers’ collaborations to maintain knowledge and resource sharing.
• New technologies for storage of agricultural products.
• Competitive advantage in farming, car, and restaurant industries.
• Organic materials to recycle nutrients within the agricultural ecosystem.
• Alternative farming methods to provide efficient resource use.
• Political argument on farm subsidies.
• Anti-discrimination policies to expand the rights of women in the agricultural sector.
• Online podcasts to build trustful relationships between farmers and consumers.
• Quillstine Farm’s start-up business plan.
• Conserving genetic variety in crops and livestock for future resilience.
• Increasing investment to address a lack of modern farming equipment.
• Business plan: integrated farming.
• Favoring crop rotation over monoculture farming to save natural habitats.
• Waste management to cut down on agriculture’s environmental footprint.
• State farm: addressing problematic intersections.
• The use of mulch and cover crops to protect soil from wind and water erosion.

Proposal Topics for a History Paper

• World War II lessons to prevent future conflicts.
• The City of Dubai: history, development, and challenges.
• Modern technology to restore the chronology of ancient events.
• The lasting impact of the Silk Road on global trade.
• History of supply chain management.
• The evolution of democracy in Ancient Greece.
• Anti-nationalism programs to prevent an imbalanced view of the past.
• Major historical influences on Karl Marx’s materialist conception of history.
• The impact of colonialism on indigenous cultures.
• The evolution of human rights : from declaration to practice.
• Corporate social responsibility and its historical background.
• The history of urban legends and folklore: transmission and societal impact.
• Environmental change and its impact on historical societies.
• Management and its historical evolution.
• The economic motivations and consequences of colonization.
• The history of entertainment and its social influence.
• Enron Company’s history of rise and fall.
• Disinformation and misinformation campaigns throughout history.
• The evolution of humanitarian aid and international relief efforts.
• Islamic banking: history and economic crises.
• Economic and social impact of pandemics throughout history.
• The evolution of warfare ethics: from ancient codes to modern international law.
• Justice is one of the key themes in human history.
• The history of human-animal relationships and their cultural significance.
• The Marshall Plan for European economic recovery post-WWII.
• History of inclusion in early childhood education.
• The influence of global trade routes on culinary traditions.
• New historical approaches to overcome scientific doubt.
• The history of Saudi Aramco from 1930 to 1940.
• AI technology to indicate fabricated historical documents.

😄 Funny Topics for Proposal Essays

Are you looking for funny proposal topics? Then, we have something for you! Read on to find some of the most outstanding ideas!

• Mobile apps to prevent people from running into objects while they are texting.
• Mindbody app: proposed business plan.
• Mental exercises to increase student productivity at school.
• Pavlov’s dog experiment to teach pets to use the toilet.
• Financial proposal for ‘SILK’ hair protection gel.
• The use of humor to reduce stress and depression.
• Surviving Monday mornings: a comprehensive guide to coffee consumption.
• Goals and features of a proposed school library.
• Online monitoring to stop students’ procrastination.
• Mini lie detector to get away with telling a white lie.
• Business proposal for the Al-Yamamah College and JavaNet.
• New device to ensure your shampoo and conditioner are at the same rate.
• Plants and their role in reviving the space where you are working.
• Marketing proposal for Bikemate.
• The art of organization to protect the house from clutter.
• AI kitchen appliances to ensure food safety.
• Business plan for the proposed Chinese medicine clinic in Kuwait.
• Rap music to make home tasks fun and effective.
• Second hand to save budget from unplanned shopping.
• Zetech Organization’s proposed change: strengths and weaknesses.
• Funny mugs to throw a perfect tea party.
• Online books to not die from boredom in the queue.

Proposal Title Ideas about Animals

• The use of langur pee smell to protect New Delhi from monkeys.
• Animal Foodland organization’s marketing plan.
• Conducting a study on dogs’ understanding of human emotional cues.
• Purchasing cruelty-free cosmetics to protect animals from being killed.
• Woolly Mammoth project – mythical animal.
• Animal adoption programs solve the problem of animal homelessness.
• Spaying and neutering to solve the pet overpopulation issue.
• Traveling by train among animals and plants.
• Taking part in Animal Rescue Team training to help animals in crisis.
• Veterinary care standards to improve conditions for animals in captivity.
• Cosmetic and medical animal testing .
• Establishing training programs to provide certificates of pet ownership.
• Natural habitat rehabilitation to save endangered species.
• Animal-based therapy overview and analysis .
• Creating protected areas to safeguard oceanic biodiversity.
• Responsible tourism to ensure wildlife safety and security.
• Red fluorescent protein transgenic dogs experiment .
• Global cooperation to stop illegal cross-border animal trafficking.
• Education programs to raise awareness of animal conservation.
• Business ethics decision situation in veterinary practice.
• Supporting fur-free fashion to protect wildlife.
• Encouraging TV talk shows to discuss animal issues.
• China Southern Airlines and monkey transportation.

Proposal Paper Ideas about Sports

• Developing a community-based sports initiative for physical fitness and health.
• How does social media influence sports brands marketing?
• Education on sports ethics to create an inclusive environment in a team.
• Anti-doping programs to reduce the cases of steroid use.
• Sports marketing affected by the internet of things.
• Financial rehabilitation services to help athletes with injuries.
• Creating fitness programs for children to promote a culture of health.
• Leadership in the sports club group.
• Equal pay for female athletes in professional sports to stop discrimination.
• Increasing access to sporting opportunities for people with disabilities.
• Preparing to be an effective follower in sports.
• Detailed protocols to prevent and manage dangerous situations in sports.
• Equipment-sharing programs to make sports activities more affordable.
• Kids and sports: lack of professional sports guides.
• Physical education programs in the schools to promote healthy lifestyles.
• Recovery strategies to prevent burnout and overtraining of athletes.
• Balancing college sports and academic mission.
• Supportive team program to assist athletes in coping with eating disorders .
• Monitoring systems to ensure safe and sustainable workloads.
• Advertising campaign for online sports nutrition store.
• Sports psychologists and their role in helping athletes with mental toughness.
• Sponsorship programs to reduce individual financial pressure in the sports industry.

Creating a well-developed structure is vital for any writing assignment. That’s why we’ve prepared a detailed template with the elements of a good proposal.

✍️ How to Make a Proposal Essay

Whether you are writing a proposal argument or a research proposal, the writing steps will be the same. Below are the steps you should take to complete this assignment.

1. Choose Your Topic

Choosing a good topic is vital in writing a proposal essay. Select the subject you are interested in. This way, you’ll be more willing to invest your time and efforts into this project. In addition, ensure that your topic is narrow, specific, and significant. If your topic is too broad, reading background information can help you limit its scope.

2. Research

Find trustworthy sources with the information you can use to support your proposal. It will help you write the background section and highlight the importance of the problem. In addition, reliable sources will help you provide evidence justifying your chosen solution to the problem.

Developing a detailed outline helps ensure that your paper is logical and cohesive. The outline will let you see how you will link all of the facts to support the thesis statement. Also, it can save you time by identifying any gaps and weaknesses in your argument before you start writing your paper.

4. Draft Your Proposal Essay

When drafting your proposal, remember that it is a type of persuasive writing. It should present a project and encourage the reader to go along with a plan of action outlined in the paper. So, ensure your proposal is convincing, logical, and credible and considers the audience, purpose, and tone.

Start your essay by presenting the purpose and essence of your project. The main body of your proposal essay should contain background information on the problem and persuasive reasons to support your proposal. Finally, the conclusion should underline the significance of the issue and call the audience to action.

5. Revise and Edit

Carefully revise and edit your draft. Consider whether the problem is described concisely, the solution is complete, and your evidence is used appropriately. Also, read your work to find any grammar or spelling mistakes. If you still have doubts about your paper, you can ask your professor or classmate to read it and give their feedback.

📃 Sample of a Proposal Essay

To help you understand how a proposal essay is structured, we’ve prepared a topic proposal example. Check it out!

Equipping Schools with Recycling Bins for Environmental Preservation

The purpose of this proposal is to implement a school-wide recycling program by strategically placing recycling bins across the campus. This initiative will promote zero waste culture, ensure the school’s sustainability, and contribute to environmental preservation.

The school is a perfect place to develop environmental awareness because it has the opportunity to build students’ knowledge and skills necessary to address environmental issues. One way to do so is to teach students to avoid improper waste disposal through recycling.

The proposal involves procuring and placing recycling bins across the school, including classrooms, common areas, and outdoor spaces. In addition, educational campaigns will be held to raise awareness among students, staff, and parents about the significance of waste segregation and recycling. Regular monitoring and evaluation will ensure the program’s effectiveness.

Several problems may arise while implementing this project, including resistance to change and logistical concerns about bin placement. Some may also object to the proposal due to the costs associated with it. However, the resistance to change can be mitigated by educational campaigns. The bin placement problem can be solved by involving staff and students in determining the optimal locations for recycling bins. Finally, financial constraints can be addressed by seeking partnerships with local businesses and community organizations.

Equipping the school with recycling bins is a step toward a sustainable future. By reducing waste and promoting sustainable practices, our school can lead by example and inspire positive changes within the community. This initiative gives a chance to raise environmentally conscious students and contribute to a healthier planet. Let us embrace this program to foster a sustainable school environment.

❓ Proposal Topics FAQ

How to write a proposal for an essay topic.

• Choose a topic.
• Identify your thesis or research question.
• Look for sources that you can use to support your thesis/research question.
• Create a detailed outline.
• Write the first draft.
• Edit the finished paper to fix grammar or spelling mistakes and ensure coherence.

How to write a proposal essay introduction?

Start with an attention-grabbing hook to pique your audience’s curiosity. Then, summarize the details of the problem and outline the purpose of your proposed project. Finally, add a strong thesis statement, summarizing your suggested solution and giving a preview of your supporting arguments.

How to write a proposal argument essay?

• Summarize the details of the problem and present the thesis.
• Give a detailed history of the problem.
• Present your proposal in detail.
• Examine the contrasting viewpoints.
• Sum up the main points of your essay.

What to write a proposal essay on?

Since you advocate for a change or a solution to a problem in your proposal essay, you should choose a topic you care about. You can write a proposal essay on virtually everything, from presenting a solution to climate change to implementing a community-based reading program or raising awareness about the importance of gut microbiota.

• Topic Proposals | University of Hawaii
• Selecting a Research Topic: Overview | MIT Libraries
• Proposals | University of Mary Washington
• Research Proposals | University of New Hampshire
• 10 Major Social Problems That Could Be Fixed with Innovative Solutions | Listverse
• How to Write a Topic Proposal | LUC Writing Center
• The Art of Proposal Writing: Proposal as Genre | Graduate College at Illinois
• Outline for Research Project Proposal | Portland State University
• Tips for Successful Proposal Writing | University of California, Davis
• How to Write a Good Postgraduate Research Proposal | The University of Edinburgh
• Proposal Argument Topic Ideas | Classroom
• What Is a Proposal Argument Essay? | Classroom
• Proposal Argument Essay | Madigan Library at Penn College
• Practical Proposal Essay Topics for Students | YourDictionary
• How to Write a Proposal Essay/Paper | Owlcation
• Guidelines for Proposal and Essay | York University
• The Academic Proposal | University of Toronto
• Writing Process: Creating a Proposal | Openstax
• How to Write a Research Proposal | University of Sheffield
• How To Write a Project Proposal (With Tips and Example) | Indeed

How to Write an Animal Testing Essay: Tips for Argumentative & Persuasive Papers

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Home » How To Write A Proposal – Step By Step Guide [With Template]

How To Write A Proposal – Step By Step Guide [With Template]

Table of Contents

How To Write A Proposal

Writing a Proposal involves several key steps to effectively communicate your ideas and intentions to a target audience. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each step:

Identify the Purpose and Audience

• Clearly define the purpose of your proposal: What problem are you addressing, what solution are you proposing, or what goal are you aiming to achieve?
• Identify your target audience: Who will be reading your proposal? Consider their background, interests, and any specific requirements they may have.

Conduct Research

• Gather relevant information: Conduct thorough research to support your proposal. This may involve studying existing literature, analyzing data, or conducting surveys/interviews to gather necessary facts and evidence.
• Understand the context: Familiarize yourself with the current situation or problem you’re addressing. Identify any relevant trends, challenges, or opportunities that may impact your proposal.

Develop an Outline

• Create a clear and logical structure: Divide your proposal into sections or headings that will guide your readers through the content.
• Introduction: Provide a concise overview of the problem, its significance, and the proposed solution.
• Background/Context: Offer relevant background information and context to help the readers understand the situation.
• Objectives/Goals: Clearly state the objectives or goals of your proposal.
• Methodology/Approach: Describe the approach or methodology you will use to address the problem.
• Timeline/Schedule: Present a detailed timeline or schedule outlining the key milestones or activities.
• Budget/Resources: Specify the financial and other resources required to implement your proposal.
• Evaluation/Success Metrics: Explain how you will measure the success or effectiveness of your proposal.
• Conclusion: Summarize the main points and restate the benefits of your proposal.

Write the Proposal

• Grab attention: Start with a compelling opening statement or a brief story that hooks the reader.
• Clearly state the problem: Clearly define the problem or issue you are addressing and explain its significance.
• Present your proposal: Introduce your proposed solution, project, or idea and explain why it is the best approach.
• State the objectives/goals: Clearly articulate the specific objectives or goals your proposal aims to achieve.
• Provide supporting information: Present evidence, data, or examples to support your claims and justify your proposal.
• Explain the methodology: Describe in detail the approach, methods, or strategies you will use to implement your proposal.
• Address potential concerns: Anticipate and address any potential objections or challenges the readers may have and provide counterarguments or mitigation strategies.
• Recap the main points: Summarize the key points you’ve discussed in the proposal.
• Reinforce the benefits: Emphasize the positive outcomes, benefits, or impact your proposal will have.
• Call to action: Clearly state what action you want the readers to take, such as approving the proposal, providing funding, or collaborating with you.

Review and Revise

• Proofread for clarity and coherence: Check for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
• Ensure a logical flow: Read through your proposal to ensure the ideas are presented in a logical order and are easy to follow.
• Revise and refine: Fine-tune your proposal to make it concise, persuasive, and compelling.

Add Supplementary Materials

• Attach relevant documents: Include any supporting materials that strengthen your proposal, such as research findings, charts, graphs, or testimonials.
• Appendices: Add any additional information that might be useful but not essential to the main body of the proposal.

Formatting and Presentation

• Follow the guidelines: Adhere to any specific formatting guidelines provided by the organization or institution to which you are submitting the proposal.
• Use a professional tone and language: Ensure that your proposal is written in a clear, concise, and professional manner.
• Use headings and subheadings: Organize your proposal with clear headings and subheadings to improve readability.
• Pay attention to design: Use appropriate fonts, font sizes, and formatting styles to make your proposal visually appealing.
• Include a cover page: Create a cover page that includes the title of your proposal, your name or organization, the date, and any other required information.

Seek Feedback

• Share your proposal with trusted colleagues or mentors and ask for their feedback. Consider their suggestions for improvement and incorporate them into your proposal if necessary.

Finalize and Submit

• Make any final revisions based on the feedback received.
• Ensure that all required sections, attachments, and documentation are included.
• Double-check for any formatting, grammar, or spelling errors.
• Submit your proposal within the designated deadline and according to the submission guidelines provided.

Proposal Format

The format of a proposal can vary depending on the specific requirements of the organization or institution you are submitting it to. However, here is a general proposal format that you can follow:

1. Title Page:

• Include the title of your proposal, your name or organization’s name, the date, and any other relevant information specified by the guidelines.

2. Executive Summary:

•  Provide a concise overview of your proposal, highlighting the key points and objectives.
• Summarize the problem, proposed solution, and anticipated benefits.
• Keep it brief and engaging, as this section is often read first and should capture the reader’s attention.

3. Introduction:

• State the problem or issue you are addressing and its significance.
• Provide background information to help the reader understand the context and importance of the problem.
• Clearly state the purpose and objectives of your proposal.

4. Problem Statement:

• Describe the problem in detail, highlighting its impact and consequences.
• Use data, statistics, or examples to support your claims and demonstrate the need for a solution.

5. Proposed Solution or Project Description:

• Explain your proposed solution or project in a clear and detailed manner.
• Describe how your solution addresses the problem and why it is the most effective approach.
• Include information on the methods, strategies, or activities you will undertake to implement your solution.
• Highlight any unique features, innovations, or advantages of your proposal.

6. Methodology:

• Provide a step-by-step explanation of the methodology or approach you will use to implement your proposal.
• Include a timeline or schedule that outlines the key milestones, tasks, and deliverables.
• Clearly describe the resources, personnel, or expertise required for each phase of the project.

7. Evaluation and Success Metrics:

• Explain how you will measure the success or effectiveness of your proposal.
• Identify specific metrics, indicators, or evaluation methods that will be used.
• Describe how you will track progress, gather feedback, and make adjustments as needed.
• Present a detailed budget that outlines the financial resources required for your proposal.
• Include all relevant costs, such as personnel, materials, equipment, and any other expenses.
• Provide a justification for each item in the budget.

9. Conclusion:

•  Summarize the main points of your proposal.
•  Reiterate the benefits and positive outcomes of implementing your proposal.
• Emphasize the value and impact it will have on the organization or community.

10. Appendices:

• Include any additional supporting materials, such as research findings, charts, graphs, or testimonials.
•  Attach any relevant documents that provide further information but are not essential to the main body of the proposal.

Proposal Template

Here’s a basic proposal template that you can use as a starting point for creating your own proposal:

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am writing to submit a proposal for [briefly state the purpose of the proposal and its significance]. This proposal outlines a comprehensive solution to address [describe the problem or issue] and presents an actionable plan to achieve the desired objectives.

Thank you for considering this proposal. I believe that implementing this solution will significantly contribute to [organization’s or community’s goals]. I am available to discuss the proposal in more detail at your convenience. Please feel free to contact me at [your email address or phone number].

Yours sincerely,

Note: This template is a starting point and should be customized to meet the specific requirements and guidelines provided by the organization or institution to which you are submitting the proposal.

Proposal Sample

Here’s a sample proposal to give you an idea of how it could be structured and written:

Subject : Proposal for Implementation of Environmental Education Program

I am pleased to submit this proposal for your consideration, outlining a comprehensive plan for the implementation of an Environmental Education Program. This program aims to address the critical need for environmental awareness and education among the community, with the objective of fostering a sense of responsibility and sustainability.

Executive Summary: Our proposed Environmental Education Program is designed to provide engaging and interactive educational opportunities for individuals of all ages. By combining classroom learning, hands-on activities, and community engagement, we aim to create a long-lasting impact on environmental conservation practices and attitudes.

Introduction: The state of our environment is facing significant challenges, including climate change, habitat loss, and pollution. It is essential to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to understand these issues and take action. This proposal seeks to bridge the gap in environmental education and inspire a sense of environmental stewardship among the community.

Problem Statement: The lack of environmental education programs has resulted in limited awareness and understanding of environmental issues. As a result, individuals are less likely to adopt sustainable practices or actively contribute to conservation efforts. Our program aims to address this gap and empower individuals to become environmentally conscious and responsible citizens.

Proposed Solution or Project Description: Our Environmental Education Program will comprise a range of activities, including workshops, field trips, and community initiatives. We will collaborate with local schools, community centers, and environmental organizations to ensure broad participation and maximum impact. By incorporating interactive learning experiences, such as nature walks, recycling drives, and eco-craft sessions, we aim to make environmental education engaging and enjoyable.

Methodology: Our program will be structured into modules that cover key environmental themes, such as biodiversity, climate change, waste management, and sustainable living. Each module will include a mix of classroom sessions, hands-on activities, and practical field experiences. We will also leverage technology, such as educational apps and online resources, to enhance learning outcomes.

Evaluation and Success Metrics: We will employ a combination of quantitative and qualitative measures to evaluate the effectiveness of the program. Pre- and post-assessments will gauge knowledge gain, while surveys and feedback forms will assess participant satisfaction and behavior change. We will also track the number of community engagement activities and the adoption of sustainable practices as indicators of success.

Budget: Please find attached a detailed budget breakdown for the implementation of the Environmental Education Program. The budget covers personnel costs, materials and supplies, transportation, and outreach expenses. We have ensured cost-effectiveness while maintaining the quality and impact of the program.

Conclusion: By implementing this Environmental Education Program, we have the opportunity to make a significant difference in our community’s environmental consciousness and practices. We are confident that this program will foster a generation of individuals who are passionate about protecting our environment and taking sustainable actions. We look forward to discussing the proposal further and working together to make a positive impact.

Thank you for your time and consideration. Should you have any questions or require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me at [your email address or phone number].

About the author

Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

Academic Proposals

Welcome to the Purdue OWL

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This resource introduces the genre of academic proposals and provides strategies for developing effective graduate-level proposals across multiple contexts.

Introduction

An important part of the work completed in academia is sharing our scholarship with others. Such communication takes place when we present at scholarly conferences, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and publish in books. This OWL resource addresses the steps in writing for a variety of academic proposals.

For samples of academic proposals, click here .

Important considerations for the writing process

First and foremost, you need to consider your future audience carefully in order to determine both how specific your topic can be and how much background information you need to provide in your proposal. While some conferences and journals may be subject-specific, most will require you to address an audience that does not conduct research on the same topics as you. Conference proposal reviewers are often drawn from professional organization members or other attendees, while journal proposals are typically reviewed by the editorial staff, so you need to ensure that your proposal is geared toward the knowledge base and expectations of whichever audience will read your work.

Along those lines, you might want to check whether you are basing your research on specific prior research and terminology that requires further explanation. As a rule, always phrase your proposal clearly and specifically, avoid over-the-top phrasing and jargon, but do not negate your own personal writing style in the process.

If you would like to add a quotation to your proposal, you are not required to provide a citation or footnote of the source, although it is generally preferred to mention the author’s name. Always put quotes in quotation marks and take care to limit yourself to at most one or two quotations in the entire proposal text. Furthermore, you should always proofread your proposal carefully and check whether you have integrated details, such as author’s name, the correct number of words, year of publication, etc. correctly.

Methodology is often a key factor in the evaluation of proposals for any academic genre — but most proposals have such a small word limit that writers find it difficult to adequately include methods while also discussing their argument, background for the study, results, and contributions to knowledge. It's important to make sure that you include some information about the methods used in your study, even if it's just a line or two; if your proposal isn't experimental in nature, this space should instead describe the theory, lens, or approach you are taking to arrive at your conclusions.

Reasons proposals fail/common pitfalls

There are common pitfalls that you might need to improve on for future proposals.

The proposal does not reflect your enthusiasm and persuasiveness, which usually goes hand in hand with hastily written, simply worded proposals. Generally, the better your research has been, the more familiar you are with the subject and the more smoothly your proposal will come together.

Similarly, proposing a topic that is too broad can harm your chances of being accepted to a conference. Be sure to have a clear focus in your proposal. Usually, this can be avoided by more advanced research to determine what has already been done, especially if the proposal is judged by an important scholar in the field. Check the names of keynote speakers and other attendees of note to avoid repeating known information or not focusing your proposal.

Your paper might simply have lacked the clear language that proposals should contain. On this linguistic level, your proposal might have sounded repetitious, have had boring wording, or simply displayed carelessness and a lack of proofreading, all of which can be remedied by more revisions. One key tactic for ensuring you have clear language in your proposal is signposting — you can pick up key phrases from the CFP, as well as use language that indicates different sections in academic work (as in IMRAD sections from the organization and structure page in this resource). This way, reviewers can easily follow your proposal and identify its relatedness to work in the field and the CFP.

Conference proposals

Conference proposals are a common genre in graduate school that invite several considerations for writing depending on the conference and requirements of the call for papers.

Beginning the process

Make sure you read the call for papers carefully to consider the deadline and orient your topic of presentation around the buzzwords and themes listed in the document. You should take special note of the deadline and submit prior to that date, as most conferences use online submission systems that will close on a deadline and will not accept further submissions.

If you have previously spoken on or submitted a proposal on the same topic, you should carefully adjust it specifically for this conference or even completely rewrite the proposal based on your changing and evolving research.

The topic you are proposing should be one that you can cover easily within a time frame of approximately fifteen to twenty minutes. You should stick to the required word limit of the conference call. The organizers have to read a large number of proposals, especially in the case of an international or interdisciplinary conference, and will appreciate your brevity.

Structure and components

Conference proposals differ widely across fields and even among individual conferences in a field. Some just request an abstract, which is written similarly to any other abstract you'd write for a journal article or other publication. Some may request abstracts or full papers that fit into pre-existing sessions created by conference organizers. Some request both an abstract and a further description or proposal, usually in cases where the abstract will be published in the conference program and the proposal helps organizers decide which papers they will accept. 

If the conference you are submitting to requires a proposal or description, there are some common elements you'll usually need to include. These are a statement of the problem or topic, a discussion of your approach to the problem/topic, a discussion of findings or expected findings, and a discussion of key takeaways or relevance to audience members. These elements are typically given in this order and loosely follow the IMRAD structure discussed in the organization and structure page in this resource. 

The proportional size of each of these elements in relation to one another tends to vary by the stage of your research and the relationship of your topic to the field of the conference. If your research is very early on, you may spend almost no time on findings, because you don't have them yet. Similarly, if your topic is a regular feature at conferences in your field, you may not need to spend as much time introducing it or explaining its relevance to the field; however, if you are working on a newer topic or bringing in a topic or problem from another discipline, you may need to spend slightly more space explaining it to reviewers. These decisions should usually be based on an analysis of your audience — what information can reviewers be reasonably expected to know, and what will you have to tell them?

Journal Proposals

Most of the time, when you submit an article to a journal for publication, you'll submit a finished manuscript which contains an abstract, the text of the article, the bibliography, any appendices, and author bios. These can be on any topic that relates to the journal's scope of interest, and they are accepted year-round.

Special issues , however, are planned issues of a journal that center around a specific theme, usually a "hot topic" in the field. The editor or guest editors for the special issue will often solicit proposals with a call for papers (CFP) first, accept a certain number of proposals for further development into article manuscripts, and then accept the final articles for the special issue from that smaller pool. Special issues are typically the only time when you will need to submit a proposal to write a journal article, rather than submitting a completed manuscript.

Journal proposals share many qualities with conference proposals: you need to write for your audience, convey the significance of your work, and condense the various sections of a full study into a small word or page limit. In general, the necessary components of a proposal include:

• Problem or topic statement that defines the subject of your work (often includes research questions)
• Background information (think literature review) that indicates the topic's importance in your field as well as indicates that your research adds something to the scholarship on this topic
• Methodology and methods used in the study (and an indication of why these methods are the correct ones for your research questions)
• Results or findings (which can be tentative or preliminary, if the study has not yet been completed)
• Significance and implications of the study (what will readers learn? why should they care?)

This order is a common one because it loosely follows the IMRAD (introduction, methods, results and discussion) structure often used in academic writing; however, it is not the only possible structure or even always the best structure. You may need to move these elements around depending on the expectations in your field, the word or page limit, or the instructions given in the CFP.

Some of the unique considerations of journal proposals are:

• The CFP may ask you for an abstract, a proposal, or both. If you need to write an abstract, look for more information on the abstract page. If you need to write both an abstract and a proposal, make sure to clarify for yourself what the difference is. Usually the proposal needs to include more information about the significance, methods, and/or background of the study than will fit in the abstract, but often the CFP itself will give you some instructions as to what information the editors are wanting in each piece of writing.
• Journal special issue CFPs, like conference CFPs, often include a list of topics or questions that describe the scope of the special issue. These questions or topics are a good starting place for generating a proposal or tying in your research; ensuring that your work is a good fit for the special issue and articulating why that is in the proposal increases your chances of being accepted.
• Special issues are not less valuable or important than regularly scheduled issues; therefore, your proposal needs to show that your work fits and could readily be accepted in any other issue of the journal. This means following some of the same practices you would if you were preparing to submit a manuscript to a journal: reading the journal's author submission guidelines; reading the last several years of the journal to understand the usual topics, organization, and methods; citing pieces from this journal and other closely related journals in your research.

Book Proposals

While the requirements are very similar to those of conference proposals, proposals for a book ought to address a few other issues.

General considerations

Since these proposals are of greater length, the publisher will require you to delve into greater detail as well—for instance, regarding the organization of the proposed book or article.

Publishers generally require a clear outline of the chapters you are proposing and an explication of their content, which can be several pages long in its entirety.

You will need to incorporate knowledge of relevant literature, use headings and sub-headings that you should not use in conference proposals. Be sure to know who wrote what about your topic and area of interest, even if you are proposing a less scholarly project.

Publishers prefer depth rather than width when it comes to your topic, so you should be as focused as possible and further outline your intended audience.

You should always include information regarding your proposed deadlines for the project and how you will execute this plan, especially in the sciences. Potential investors or publishers need to know that you have a clear and efficient plan to accomplish your proposed goals. Depending on the subject area, this information can also include a proposed budget, materials or machines required to execute this project, and information about its industrial application.

Pre-writing strategies

As John Boswell (cited in: Larsen, Michael. How to Write a Book Proposal. Writers Digest Books , 2004. p. 1) explains, “today fully 90 percent of all nonfiction books sold to trade publishers are acquired on the basis of a proposal alone.” Therefore, editors and agents generally do not accept completed manuscripts for publication, as these “cannot (be) put into the usual channels for making a sale”, since they “lack answers to questions of marketing, competition, and production.” (Lyon, Elizabeth. Nonfiction Book Proposals Anybody Can Write . Perigee Trade, 2002. pp. 6-7.)

In contrast to conference or, to a lesser degree, chapter proposals, a book proposal introduces your qualifications for writing it and compares your work to what others have done or failed to address in the past.

As a result, you should test the idea with your networks and, if possible, acquire other people’s proposals that discuss similar issues or have a similar format before submitting your proposal. Prior to your submission, it is recommended that you write at least part of the manuscript in addition to checking the competition and reading all about the topic.

The following is a list of questions to ask yourself before committing to a book project, but should in no way deter you from taking on a challenging project (adapted from Lyon 27). Depending on your field of study, some of these might be more relevant to you than others, but nonetheless useful to reiterate and pose to yourself.

• Do you have sufficient enthusiasm for a project that may span years?
• Will publication of your book satisfy your long-term career goals?
• Do you have enough material for such a long project and do you have the background knowledge and qualifications required for it?
• Is your book idea better than or different from other books on the subject? Does the idea spark enthusiasm not just in yourself but others in your field, friends, or prospective readers?
• Are you willing to acquire any lacking skills, such as, writing style, specific terminology and knowledge on that field for this project? Will it fit into your career and life at the time or will you not have the time to engage in such extensive research?

Essential elements of a book proposal

Your book proposal should include the following elements:

• Your proposal requires the consideration of the timing and potential for sale as well as its potential for subsidiary rights.
• It needs to include an outline of approximately one paragraph to one page of prose (Larsen 6) as well as one sample chapter to showcase the style and quality of your writing.
• You should also include the resources you need for the completion of the book and a biographical statement (“About the Author”).
• Your proposal must contain your credentials and expertise, preferably from previous publications on similar issues.
• A book proposal also provides you with the opportunity to include information such as a mission statement, a foreword by another authority, or special features—for instance, humor, anecdotes, illustrations, sidebars, etc.
• You must assess your ability to promote the book and know the market that you target in all its statistics.

The following proposal structure, as outlined by Peter E. Dunn for thesis and fellowship proposals, provides a useful guide to composing such a long proposal (Dunn, Peter E. “Proposal Writing.” Center for Instructional Excellence, Purdue University, 2007):

• Literature Review
• Identification of Problem
• Statement of Objectives
• Rationale and Significance
• Methods and Timeline
• Literature Cited

Most proposals for manuscripts range from thirty to fifty pages and, apart from the subject hook, book information (length, title, selling handle), markets for your book, and the section about the author, all the other sections are optional. Always anticipate and answer as many questions by editors as possible, however.

Finally, include the best chapter possible to represent your book's focus and style. Until an agent or editor advises you to do otherwise, follow your book proposal exactly without including something that you might not want to be part of the book or improvise on possible expected recommendations.

Publishers expect to acquire the book's primary rights, so that they can sell it in an adapted or condensed form as well. Mentioning any subsidiary rights, such as translation opportunities, performance and merchandising rights, or first-serial rights, will add to the editor's interest in buying your book. It is enticing to publishers to mention your manuscript's potential to turn into a series of books, although they might still hesitate to buy it right away—at least until the first one has been a successful endeavor.

The sample chapter

Since editors generally expect to see about one-tenth of a book, your sample chapter's length should reflect that in these building blocks of your book. The chapter should reflect your excitement and the freshness of the idea as well as surprise editors, but do not submit part of one or more chapters. Always send a chapter unless your credentials are impeccable due to prior publications on the subject. Do not repeat information in the sample chapter that will be covered by preceding or following ones, as the outline should be designed in such a way as to enable editors to understand the context already.

How to make your proposal stand out

Depending on the subject of your book, it is advisable to include illustrations that exemplify your vision of the book and can be included in the sample chapter. While these can make the book more expensive, it also increases the salability of the project. Further, you might consider including outstanding samples of your published work, such as clips from periodicals, if they are well-respected in the field. Thirdly, cover art can give your potential publisher a feel for your book and its marketability, especially if your topic is creative or related to the arts.

In addition, professionally formatting your materials will give you an edge over sloppy proposals. Proofread the materials carefully, use consistent and carefully organized fonts, spacing, etc., and submit your proposal without staples; rather, submit it in a neat portfolio that allows easy access and reassembling. However, check the submission guidelines first, as most proposals are submitted digitally. Finally, you should try to surprise editors and attract their attention. Your hook, however, should be imaginative but inexpensive (you do not want to bribe them, after all). Make sure your hook draws the editors to your book proposal immediately (Adapted from Larsen 154-60).

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How To Write An Essay Proposal: Helpful Guideline For Students

Many students want to learn how to write an essay proposal when joining college. Most learners can read and write a five-paragraph essay when completing secondary education. However, very few students have experience with writing an essay proposal. A proposal is a typical assignment; students can write it based on an essay prompt. This article explains what an essay proposal is and how to write it.

Table of Contents

What is a proposal essay.

• What Is The Goal Of An Essay Proposal?

Why You Might Need An Essay Proposal

How to write a proposal for an essay, essay proposal example, how to start a proposal essay, how to write proposal: a step-by-step guide, essay proposal format.

• Tips And Hints On How To Write A Proposal Essay

An essay proposal is a paper that describes or proposes an idea or thesis that you intend to write. It outlines the main points you will discuss in the body of the paper while providing supporting evidence for the proposed argument.

A thesis represents the research and its main idea. However, a proposal essay encapsulates the content and purpose of the paper. It aims to convince the educational committee that the topic and approach are sound, hoping to get you the approval to proceed to the actual research.

Some call it a proposal argument that presents a problem that needs fixing or a necessary change. While people mostly write proposals in economics, management, and businesses, scientists, students, and other professionals write them.

What Is The Goal Of An Essay Proposal?

An essay proposal aims to persuade the reader that your topic is worth investigating. It should include a brief overview of the main points you will discuss in the body of the paper and provide supporting evidence for the proposed argument. Here’s what an effective essay proposal does:

• It suggests a change or idea.
• It convinces your readers to adopt a change or view.
• It shows your mastery of a concept in your field
• It presents a case for a change process or idea’s implementation
• It confirms the practicality, applicability, and feasibility of an idea, a program, or a change

Learning how to write essay proposal requires understanding its points. Essentially, this paper should represent a well-explained problem or issue. It proposes a way to solve it and a discussion explaining why your solution is the best.

You need an essay proposal if your teacher or professor assigns you a research paper. This paper outlines the scope and purpose of your project. And this is helpful because it ensures that the involved parties agree about the project and its content. It states to the stakeholder or decision-maker that you understand your project and its scope.

Learning to write a proposal is essential if you want to score a higher grade for a school or college course you’re taking. Also, this skill is vital if you want to write proposals to get business or project funding. Once you acquire this skill, you can write persuasively on a specific topic without struggling to start.

You do most of the work in the pre-writing stages when writing a proposal essay. Here’s what you should do before starting.

Know your readers: This essay aims to convince the audience that you have a worth-pursuing idea. Therefore, know who will read the proposal before you write it. Are you writing for a business person, government officials, or academics? If your readers are business people, justify the proposal by highlighting its potential financial benefits. If it’s for government officials, emphasize the proposal’s popularity. Research: You will have a higher chance of persuading others of the proposal if you have secondary sources supporting your claim. Therefore, talk to experts or read their research before writing your proposal. Pre-write: Take your time to brainstorm ideas before writing the essay. Also, think about ways to organize the views once you have them. Revise: Have a colleague or peer read the paper and provide feedback. After that, incorporate the feedback into your second draft.

Perhaps, you can also read a good essay proposal sample to understand what the readers expect you to include in your paper.

Here’s a good essay proposal example to take a peak at to shape and inspire your ideas, before we get into the details:

Christianity has not often seen eye to eye with women’s issues, particularly reproductive rights. For many years, Christianity in several forms has suggested that abortion is immoral, considering it to be the termination or murder of an unborn child (Stensvold, 2015). Whilst this terminology is helpful for creating an atmosphere of tension between women seeking abortion and their religious views, it needs to be critically examined for the way that it influences women who are practicing Christians and their attitudes towards their own body. The topic of abortion is also important because it has been traditionally seen as immoral, but more and more women (including practicing Christians) are choosing to undergo the procedure. It needs to be reevaluated in terms of modern society and understood for its significance in Christianity. Historically, the Catholic Church has been one of the biggest influencers on abortion (Stensvold, 2015). Despite this, Pope Francis has suggested that priests have the authority to absolve the sin of abortion and that it may not necessarily be one of the biggest issues facing the church (Dias, 2015). The Catholic Church is a big player in the general Christian world, and it is important to critically analyse the effects that it has on other churches. The purpose of this research will be to examine the rules and regulations of a variety of different forms of Christianity and their views on abortion with reference to the Catholic Church as a baseline. Methodology The theoretical perspective of structural functionalism will be used as a basis for conducting a thorough literature review on the topic. By analyzing several different sources which explore different Churches and their views on abortion, structural functionalism will help to place the Catholic Church and others in the context of a changing society. As the structure, norms and morality of the outside world changes, so too do the attitudes of religious believers. The literature review will focus on changing attitudes and beliefs surrounding abortion and so-called reproductive rights to analyse them in context of the Church to understand how both society, and the Catholic Church, influence Christian believers of other Churches. The analysis will include the major denominations in the United Kingdom: Anglican, Baptist, Lutheran, Methodist, Pentecostal, Orthodox, and Presbyterian, as well as brief discussions of non-Trinitarian denominations the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints, Jehovah’s Witnesses, and Quakers. Significance This work is important for several reasons. It will highlight the influence of the Catholic Church on other areas of Christianity, which is important as Catholicism remains the largest denomination. It will also help to highlight the effects of non-religious society on the views of various churches towards sin and absolution, which is important in a rapidly paced, globalized world. It will also help to highlight some of the key differences between denominations of Christianity in the United Kingdom. These three elements will come together to give a full picture on the controversial topic of abortion and the reasoning that many Christians give for its morality or immorality. Understanding this will help guide the ministerial profession into giving good, moral guidance to followers within the Church and to highlight some of the issues that will likely arise in practice.

Besides indicating your action plan, the proposal should have a theoretical positioning and a relationship to past work in your field. The readers will be more likely to approve your ideas or suggestions if your essay proposal is concise, clear, and engaging.

In most fields, a captivating and persuasive proposal is essential for success. Several proposal types include thesis proposals, book proposals, and science proposals. However, they have similar basic guidelines. Here’s how you can start your proposal.

• Topic rationale: Demonstrate why the topic is essential in your discipline. Also, include the objective limitations without promising something you can’t deliver.
• Review past works: Review published works that relate to your topic. Also, explain how your essay builds on the previous studies while exploring new territory.
• Outline your methodology or approach: Compose an essay proposal outline with the necessary resources, costs, and time for the work.

Different disciplines have varying standards for essay proposals. However, most essay proposals emphasize a specific focus of the study question. Also, they include headings, lists, and visuals, that make reading and cross-referencing easy. Additionally, use a concrete and precise style showing the feasibility of your idea.

Once you have the basic guidelines for writing your essay proposal, the next step is learning the steps to follow when doing it. A good format will help the academic committee comprehend your application’s seriousness or intent. The school, class, or institution you’re submitting the proposal to will determine your proposal’s format. Here’s a general step-by-step guide for writing a proposal.

Introduction: Start by introducing the issue you want to address to the committee. Present a firm introduction to enrapture the readers from the beginning. Background: The background should provide details of the issue while setting the stage, highlighting past studies on the topic or subject. Address stark facts to show the reason to address the problem immediately. Ideally, start the background with facts instead of your opinion. Significance: Explain what makes your study significant. Provide evidence from reports, studies, and other literature supporting your argument and showing the need to investigate your chosen topic for a proposal essay. Research hypotheses or questions: This section should explain your study goals. The hypotheses or questions should guide your analysis. Emphasize the need to solve the problem and how it affects your readers if this doesn’t happen immediately. Use credible facts and sources to support your hypotheses. Study design: Explain how you plan to conduct your study. Also, address the methodology to use in addressing the issue. In this section, show the readers how you will address the problem, why you choose to do it in a specific way, and the possible outcome. Conclusion: The conclusion should summarize the information you’ve provided in the other sections. Also, explain how the study will address the focus problem. You can conclude the proposal with one or two paragraphs describing how the study will address the issue. Essentially, the conclusion should morrow the introduction while wrapping up the overall message. This section should also address the consequences of the failure to undertake your proposal. Also, leave readers with something to think about and thank them for their consideration. Bibliography: This section is optional and lists the literature you read supporting your proposal’s content. Continue with the text if you don’t want to add a bibliography.

If some content doesn’t fit in your proposal, add an appendix. However, your proposal shouldn’t be too long because it can scare off some readers. Therefore, make it concise and clear by proofreading and editing. Also, ask somebody to proofread and critique your work to ensure an engaging and attractive presentation. Seeking help can also make your proposal more organized and helpful.

A basic format or outline will help you organize your proposal. College professors and teachers have expectations. Therefore, check your educator’s or supervisor’s requirements before writing your proposal. Here’s the basic format for an essay proposal.

• Introduction: The introduction summarizes the main points while establishing your paper’s purpose. For instance, when proposing a new approach to a topic, the opening can start with a brief description and then present an argument telling the audience why your method is the best.
• Body: The body of a proposal should present an argument supporting the main idea. Include evidence backing up the claim to compose a well-supported essay. And this evidence can be quotes, statistics, or real-life examples. Include sufficient evidence to support the argument.
• Conclusion: The conclusion should summarize the argument you presented in the essay. Also, motivate the readers to take action based on your discussion. Most importantly, remind the readers why your topic is essential and its possible impact.

Ensure that each section comes out clearly in your paper. Also, ensure that your ideas flow logically from the introduction to the conclusion.

Tips And Hints On How To Write A Proposal Essay

Your proposal should be eye-catching and captivating. Here are tips to help improve your paper. They should be a great essay homework help and assistance to you!

• Please do your research: Before beginning to write your proposal essay, it is essential to do your research. And this will help you better understand the topic at hand and will allow you to formulate a more well-rounded argument. It is also essential to be familiar with the opposing side of the debate, as this will enable you to anticipate counterarguments and refute them accordingly.
• Keep it concise: When writing a proposal essay, it is vital to keep the paper brief and to the point. The goal is not to provide a complete overview of the topic but to present a clear and concise argument for the proposed solution. Be sure to edit the paper carefully before submitting it, as a well-written and well-argued proposal is more likely to be successful than a poorly written one.
• Make a clear argument: It’s essential to ensure that your view is clear and easy to follow. Remember that the goal is to persuade the reader of the viability of your proposed solution, so be sure to present your argument logically and straightforwardly.
• Write convincingly: Present evidence and facts to make your solution more convincing and efficient than what exists. Apart from making your plan awesome, ensure that readers see you as the person that can do it efficiently.
• Explain the plan: Your proposal should have a step-by-step plan with details to make the process easy to understand.
• Show your anticipation: Present an implementation plan, showing the complete process and how it will solve the problem.
• Present your desired results: Ensure that readers see and understand your desired results. Focus on defining everything in your proposal.
• Necessary resources: Explain what you need to complete the project. And this can include tangible resources, like computers, money, and paper. Also, you require intangible resources like time to complete the project.
• Preparation mode: Ensure that your readers see that you know what you plan to do. Looking more prepared will improve the approval chances for your proposal.

In addition to these tips, edit your proposal essay carefully before submitting it. Ensure it’s free of grammatical, spelling, and punctuation errors. Additionally, read a sample to know what to include in your proposal.

Get Homework Help Today!

Do you need help writing a custom proposal? If so, we can help you if you contact us saying, “Please write my essay proposal.” We have knowledgeable and trustworthy writers with a proven track record of helping any student that needs help with research, writing, editing, or wishes to buy homework online.

Whether in college, university, or high school, we can help you write a winning proposal. We will deliver an excellent piece regardless of your proposal’s structure, subject, or level. We offer secure and helpful online services that cater to the needs of learners at various academic levels and disciplines. Our services are perfect for any learner that wants to present a perfect and successful proposal. Contact us to get the correct proposal that will help you excel academically.

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Jun 21, 2023

Proposal Essay Examples: Convincing Ideas for Your Research Paper or Essay

Dive into the power of persuasive writing through captivating proposal essay examples. Explore ideas that inspire, enrich your work, and unlock impactful proposal crafting. Prepare to elevate your writing and leave a lasting impression!

Writing a compelling proposal essay often presents a challenge for many students. A large proportion can't distinguish a research paper proposal from a proposal essay, and even more find difficulty in creating persuasive ideas for their essays. If this situation resonates with you, rest assured you're not alone.

In this extensive guide, we aim to simplify the process of writing a proposal essay. We provide a host of resources such as examples of proposal essays, a carefully constructed outline template, and proven writing techniques. Our guide, honed through years of experience in academic writing, is specifically designed to help you achieve high grades in your proposal essay assignment.

Embark on this journey with us to uncover the nuances of crafting an excellent proposal essay. Armed with the correct resources and guidance, you will transition from uncertainty to confidence, ready to produce an impressive proposal essay. Let's start delving into the craft of writing an engaging proposal essay.

What is a Proposal Essay?

An essay proposal is a document that outlines the content and purpose of your proposed essay. Whereas a thesis conveys the central concept of your study, an essay proposal summarizes the intent and substance of a specific essay.

A proposal essay also serves as a detailed plan of action addressing a particular problem. The writer identifies a problem, suggests a solution, and provides evidence to persuade the reader to agree with the proposed solution or idea. In essence, your role as a writer is to convince the reader that your concept is exceptional and that they should support its execution.

These essays function as a strategic tool, enabling you to sell an idea, belief, or yourself in a manner that not only piques the reader's interest but also convinces them of your capability to bring the proposed plan to fruition. Although proposal essays are frequently associated with business and economics disciplines, they extend beyond these fields.

Proposal essays fundamentally promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills among students. They allow you to venture beyond the structured academic syllabus and engage with real-world issues that require innovative solutions. Writing a proposal essay, therefore, is an opportunity to demonstrate your analytical acumen and your capacity to think creatively.

How to Write a Proposal Essay

Writing a compelling proposal essay requires careful planning, thorough research, and meticulous execution. Here are the steps to ensure your proposal essay stands out:

1. Understand Your Audience: Begin by identifying your target audience. Who are they, and what is their role in the context of your proposal? What are their needs, concerns, or interests? Understanding your audience's perspectives helps in tailoring your message, increasing the chances of your proposal being accepted.

2. Research Thoroughly: Deep and broad research is crucial. Even if you're well-versed with the topic, there is always more to learn. Look at what experts in the field have said and how your proposal aligns or diverges from their views. This research will not only fortify your arguments but also make your essay more credible and authoritative.

3. Create a Detailed Plan: Once you've completed your research, start to structure your essay. Begin with an introduction where you present the problem or issue. Then, propose your solution in the body paragraphs, where each paragraph should focus on a single point or argument, supported by evidence. Finally, wrap up your proposal in the conclusion by summarizing your key points and reinforcing the significance of your solution.

4. Write Your First Draft: Start writing your essay based on the plan you have created. Be clear and concise, avoid jargon, and make sure your arguments are logically constructed and easy to follow.

5. Revise and Edit: After completing your first draft, it's important to revisit it with a critical eye. Look for areas where your argument can be strengthened, check for coherence and flow, correct grammatical errors, and ensure your language is clear and precise. It may be helpful to have others review your work for a fresh perspective.

6. Proofread: Once you're satisfied with the content of your essay, proofread it one final time to catch any minor mistakes or inconsistencies. Remember, a polished essay demonstrates your diligence and commitment to quality.

By following these steps, you can create a persuasive, well-structured proposal essay that effectively communicates your idea and its value.

Structure of a Proposal Essay

Writing a proposal essay requires a specific structure that enables you to present your idea clearly and persuasively. Here's an overview of the necessary elements:

1. Introduction: Your introduction sets the stage for your proposal. It should include a captivating hook that draws readers in, and a clear thesis statement that summarizes your proposal. For Example: A feasible approach to decreasing the alarming mortality rate among young mothers is by equipping parents with necessary skills to support their teenage daughters who become pregnant.

2. Problem Statement: After the introduction, delve deeper into the problem your proposal aims to solve. Describe its nature, roots, and implications. Clarify why it's critical to address this problem, how it affects your readers, and what benefits solving it would bring.

3. Proposal Statement: In this section, elucidate your proposal in detail. Describe the solution you've come up with, highlighting both its benefits and potential drawbacks. Ensure you present your idea as the optimal solution to the problem at hand.

4. Implementation Plan: Next, explain how you plan to execute your proposal. This should be a clear and comprehensive guide demonstrating the practicability of your solution. Identify potential obstacles that might arise during implementation and include steps to overcome them. Discuss why your approach is unique and why previous attempts to solve the problem have failed.

5. Expected Outcome: Here, discuss the positive results you expect from the implementation of your proposal. Provide a clear, concise picture of the improvements and advantages your solution will bring. 6. Evaluation: In this section, provide an estimate of the resources, including time, money, and expertise, necessary to implement your proposal. Discuss its feasibility within the current situation and address possible objections or criticisms from those who might disagree with your proposal.

7. Timeline and Required Resources: Clearly specify the resources required to implement your proposal, such as manpower, funds, and equipment. Include a timeline if possible, giving a chronological order of the steps to be taken.

8. Conclusion: Summarize the key points of your essay and reaffirm the significance of your proposal. This is your final opportunity to convince your readers, so end with a powerful call to action.

Avoid introducing new ideas in the conclusion, as it can confuse readers and may unnecessarily elongate your essay. Stick to wrapping up what you've already presented and reemphasizing its importance.

Proposal Essay Examples 

In the following section, we present a collection of Proposal Essay Examples. These essays serve as excellent references for those looking to understand the structure and content of a compelling proposal.

 Each one addresses a unique and important topic, provides an insightful problem statement, proposes thoughtful solutions, and concludes by summarizing the main points. These examples illustrate the effective strategies used in proposal writing to engage readers and convincingly present an argument. 

Let's delve into these intriguing examples to inspire and enhance your proposal writing skills.

1. Reducing Plastic Waste: A Proposal for Action

Introduction:

With the escalating global environmental crisis, the specter of plastic waste looms large. Forecasts from the United Nations indicate that, failing to reduce plastic waste, we'll have more plastic than fish in the oceans by 2050. This proposal aims to present tangible solutions to this predicament.

Problem Statement:

The unchecked production and disposal of plastic products significantly contribute to plastic waste, endangering the environment and marine life. Given the lifespan of plastic waste—lasting centuries—it's crucial to devise an effective solution to curb plastic production.

Suggested measures to combat plastic waste include:

Government-imposed ban on single-use plastic items, such as straws, cups, and cutlery.

Government incentives encouraging the use of reusable products.

Awareness campaigns conducted by the government and NGOs about the environmental impact of plastic waste.

Investments in improved waste management systems for the proper handling of plastic waste.

Conclusion:

Reducing plastic waste is an urgent priority. By implementing the proposed measures, we can alleviate the issue, protect our environment and marine life, and build a more sustainable future.

2. Dangers of Texting While Driving

Despite countless warnings and campaigns, texting while driving remains a widespread, dangerous habit. This essay investigates the perils of this behavior and proposes measures to mitigate it.

Texting while driving constitutes a severe distraction, often leading to road accidents. Studies even rank it as more dangerous than drunk driving, as it considerably delays a driver's reaction time.

To address this peril, the following steps are suggested:

Launching educational programs and campaigns to inform drivers about the risks of texting while driving.

Implementing stricter penalties for drivers caught in the act.

Promoting technologies that restrict texting while driving.

Texting while driving is a lethal habit that warrants immediate attention. By raising awareness, enforcing stricter rules, and employing technology, we can significantly cut down road accidents due to distracted driving.

3. The Causes of Homelessness

Homelessness, affecting millions worldwide, is a complex and pressing social issue. This essay explores the causes behind homelessness and suggests viable solutions.

Causes of Homelessness:

Poverty, mental illness, addiction, and family breakdowns constitute the four primary triggers of homelessness.

To alleviate homelessness, the following steps are suggested:

Stimulate the supply of affordable housing by offering financial incentives to developers and reducing zoning restrictions.

Facilitate access to mental health services, addiction treatment, and support services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

Alleviate poverty by raising the minimum wage, providing job training, and enhancing access to education and healthcare.

Addressing homelessness calls for a comprehensive and coordinated effort. By implementing the proposed measures, we can significantly reduce homelessness, emphasizing our collective responsibility to extend support to those grappling with this issue.

Final Words

In conclusion, crafting a persuasive proposal essay involves thoughtful planning, in-depth research, and adept writing techniques. With Jenni.ai's cutting-edge AI tools at your disposal, this process becomes simpler, enabling you to create standout proposal essays. Take this opportunity to enhance your writing skills and leave an enduring impression on your audience. Experience the transformative capabilities of Jenni.ai today!

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6.3 Glance at Genre: Features of Proposals

Learning outcomes.

By the end of this section, you will be able to:

• Discuss the roles of purpose and audience in writing a proposal.
• Define key features and characteristics of proposals.

As you think about the problem for your proposal, it is important to understand the rhetorical situation, or the circumstance in which a writer communicates with an audience of readers, including your purpose, audience expectations, and the key elements of the proposal genre. The rhetorical situation and its relationship to writing your proposal is discussed more fully in Writing Process: Creating a Proposal .

Defining Your Purpose

Your purpose is your reason for writing. The broad purpose for most academic and real-world proposals is to offer a solution to a problem. You, the writer, are tasked with identifying a problem and recommending a solution. You may need to write a proposal for a research project in a sociology class, or you may need to write a business proposal for a marketing class or a business you’ve started. Many topics are suitable for a proposal in a college writing class. For example, some problems are local and can be acted on directly, such as improving access to mental health services on your campus, offering a new food delivery option to campus buildings, designating quiet study spaces in your library, or bringing a farmer’s market to your campus. Others are large-scale, research-oriented proposals such as reducing automobile emissions, providing broadband Internet access nationwide, or reforming immigration policies in the United States. Read your assignment carefully, and be sure you know the requirements and the amount of flexibility you have.

Tuning in to Audience Expectations

The audience for your writing consists of the people who will read it or who could read it. Are you writing for your instructor? For your classmates? For students or administrators on your campus or people in your community? Think about the action they can take to solve the problem. For example, if the problem you’re presenting is a lack of diverse food options on your campus, a proposal to other students would perhaps ask students to join you in calling for change in dining options, whereas a proposal to administrators would request specific changes.

Whoever your readers are, they expect you to do the following:

• Address a specific, well-defined problem. As the writer, ensure that your readers know what the problem is and why it needs to be solved. Some problems are well-known, whereas others need to be explained.
• Have an idea of what they already know. It is up to you as the writer to learn as much as possible about your audience. You need to know how receptive your audience may be to your suggestions and what they know about the problem you’re proposing to solve. Their knowledge—or lack thereof—will require you to adjust your writing as needed. If readers are new to the problem, they expect you to provide the necessary background information. If they are knowledgeable about the problem, they expect you to cover background information quickly.
• Provide reliable information. in the form of specific facts, statistics, and examples. Whether you present your own research or information from sources, readers expect you to have done your homework and present trustworthy information about the problem and the solution.
• Structure your proposal in a logical way. Open with an introduction that tells readers the subject of the proposal, and follow with a logical structure.
• Adopt an objective stance. Writing objectively means adopting a position and tone that are neutral and free from bias, personal feelings, and emotional language. In doing so, you show respect for your readers’ knowledge and intelligence, and you build credibility and trust, or ethos , with your readers.
• Tell them what you want them to do in response to your proposal. Do you want them to engage other members of the community? Build something? Contact their legislators? Although they may not do what you want, they are unlikely to act at all if you don’t tell them what you would like them to do.

Exploring the Genre

A formal proposal may include the components addressed in Analytical Report: Writing from Facts . If you’re writing a business proposal (a document that proposes a transaction between a business and a client and also spells out deliverables, a schedule, costs, and payment), you can find a full discussion in OpenStax’s forthcoming Business Communications text.

The following are key terms and characteristics of problem-solution proposals:

• Abstract or executive summary : paragraph that summarizes the problem and recommended solution. The purpose is to present information in the most concise and economical way possible for your readers.
• Audience: readers of a proposal or any piece of writing.
• Bias : a preconceived opinion about something, such as a subject, an idea, a person, or a group of people. As a reader, be attentive to potential bias in sources; as a writer, be attentive to bias in yourself.
• Body : main part of a proposal; appears between the introduction and the conclusion and recommendation. The body of a proposal consists of paragraphs that discuss the problem and present a solution or solutions.
• Citation of sources: references in the text of a proposal to sources the writer has used as evidence. The sources are also listed, with full bibliographic information, at the end of the proposal. Citing sources is essential to avoid plagiarism .
• Conclusion and recommendation : last part of a proposal. The conclusion restates the problem and recommends a solution. This paragraph often issues a call to action.
• Critical thinking : ability to look beneath the surface of words and images to analyze, interpret, and evaluate.
• Ethos : also known as ethical appeal; the sense that the writer or other authority is trustworthy and credible.
• Evidence : statements of fact, statistics, examples, and expert opinion or knowledge that support the writer’s points.
• Facts : statements whose truth can be proven or verified.
• Introduction : first part of a proposal, in which the writer introduces the problem to be addressed. Often, the thesis appears at the end of the introduction.
• Objections : questions or opposition readers may have about a proposed solution. These also are known as counterclaims .
• Objective stance : writing that is free from bias, personal feelings, and emotional language. An objective stance is especially important in a proposal.
• Problem : central topic to be discussed in a proposal.
• Purpose : reason for writing the proposal, usually to examine a problem and propose a solution.
• Solution or solutions: proposed resolution or resolutions to the problem, the central topic of a proposal.
• Statistics : factual statements that include numbers and often serve as evidence in a proposal.
• Synthesis : making connections between ideas and combining them to arrive at an original conclusion. Synthesizing draws from others’ opinions and ideas, facts, statistics, and the writer’s information based on research or original thought.
• Thesis : the main idea you will convey in your proposal and to which all paragraphs in the paper should relate.
• Topic sentence : a sentence that states the main idea of each paragraph.

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Proposal Essay Examples

A proposal essay is a description of a future project. It pursues two purposes: to convince the reader that the research or business deserves attention and to test the plan’s viability. Because while writing this essay, you may encounter unsurpassable problems that will require you to change the topic.

How to write a paper proposal and what to include in it? The answer largely depends on the topic and the tutor’s requirements. But in any case, it should comprise a literature overview, the methods to be used, and the predicted results.

This website section features proposal essay examples for different study levels and disciplines. Feel free to use them for reference or inspiration.

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7.6: Proposal Arguments

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Proposal arguments attempt to push for action of some kind. They answer the question "What should be done about it?"

In order to build up to a proposal, an argument needs to incorporate elements of definition argument, evaluation argument, and causal argument. First, we will need to define a problem or a situation that calls for action. Then we need to make an evaluation argument to convince readers that the problem is bad enough to be worth addressing. This will create a sense of urgency within the argument and inspire the audience to seek and adopt proposed action. In most cases, it will need to make causal arguments about the roots of the problem and the good effects of the proposed solution. 

Below are some elements of proposal arguments. Together, these elements can help us create a sense of urgency about the need for action and confidence in your proposal as a solution.

Common elements of proposal arguments

Background on the problem, opportunity, or situation .

Often just after the introduction, the background section discusses what has brought about the need for the proposal—what problem, what opportunity exists for improving things, what the basic situation is. For example, management of a chain of daycare centers may need to ensure that all employees know CPR because of new state mandates requiring it, or an owner of pine timberland in eastern Oregon may want to make sure the land can produce saleable timber without destroying the environment.

While the named audience of the proposal may know the problem very well, writing the background section is useful in demonstrating our particular view of the problem. If we cannot assume readers know the problem, we will need to spend more time convincing them that the problem or opportunity exists and that it should be addressed.  For a larger audience not familiar with the problem, this section can give detailed context.

Description of the proposed solution

Here we define the nature of what we are proposing so readers can see what is involved in the proposed action. For example, if we write an essay proposing to donate food scraps from restaurants to pig farms, we will need to define what will be considered food scraps. In another example, if we argue that organic produce is inherently healthier for consumers than non-organic produce, and we propose governmental subsidies to reduce the cost of organic produce, we will need to define “organic” and describe how much the government subsidies will be and which products or consumers will be eligible. See  7.2: Definition Arguments for strategies that can help us elaborate on our proposed solution so readers can envision it clearly.

If we have not already covered the proposal's methods in the description, we may want to add this. How will we go about completing the proposed work? For example, in the above example about food scraps, we would want to describe and how the leftover food will be stored and delivered to the pig farms. Describing the methods shows the audience we have a sound, thoughtful approach to the project. It serves to demonstrate that we have the knowledge of the field to complete the project.

Feasibility of the project

A proposal argument needs to convince readers that the project can actually be accomplished. How can enough time, money, and will be found to make it happen?  Have similar proposals been carried out successully in the past? For example, we might observe that according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Rutgers University runs a program that sends a ton of food scraps a day from its dining halls to a local farm. 1  If we describe how other efforts overcame obstacles, we will persuade readers that if they can succeed, this proposal can as well.

Benefits of the proposal

Most proposals discuss the advantages or benefits that will come from the solution proposed. Describing the benefits helps you win the audience to your side, so readers become more invested in adopting your proposed solution. In the food scraps example, we might emphasize that the Rutgers program, rather than costing more, led to $100,000 a year in savings because the dining halls no longer needed to pay to have the food scraps hauled away.  We could calculate the predicted savings for our new proposed program as well.

In order to predict the positive effects of the proposal and show how implementing it will lead to good results, we will want to use causal arguments. The strategies in  7.5: Causal Arguments will be helpful here. This is a good time to refer back to the problem we identified early in the essay and show how the proposal will resolve that original problem.

Sample annotated proposal argument 

The sample essay "Why We Should Open Our Borders" by student Laurent Wenjun Jiang can serve as an example. Annotations point out how Jiang uses several proposal argument strategies.    

• Sample proposal essay "Why We Should Open Our Borders" in PDF with margin notes
• Sample proposal essay "Why We Should Open Our Borders" accessible version with notes in parentheses

Practice Exercise \(\PageIndex{1}\)

Find a proposal argument that you strongly support.  Browse news and opinion websites, or try The Conversation . Once you have chosen a proposal, read it closely and look for the elements discussed in this section.  Do you find enough discussion of the background, methods, feasibility, and benefits of the proposal? Discuss at least one way in which you think the proposal could be revised to be even more convincing.

Works Cited

1 "Fact Sheet About the Food Scraps Diversion Program at Rutgers University." Environmental Protection Agency, U.S . October 2009,  https://www.epa.gov/sustainable-mana...ers-university . Accessed 12/10/2021.

Attributions

Parts of this section on proposal arguments are original content by Anna Mills and Darya Myers.  Parts were adapted from Technical Writing, which was derived in turn by Annemarie Hamlin, Chris Rubio, and Michele DeSilva, Central Oregon Community College, from Online Technical Writing by David McMurrey – CC BY 4.0 .

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Argument Essay Guidelines

Note to instructors: These guidelines provide possible choices for instructors assigning argument essays. They include options for proposal arguments, definition arguments, and causal arguments. You are encouraged to adopt, adapt, or remix these guidelines to suit your goals for your class. 

Due Dates  

• Rough Draft:  
• Peer Review:  
• Final Draft:  

This assignment will help you learn to create an effective argument (i.e., convey your meaning persuasively) using evidence, sound reasoning, and awareness of rhetorical principles. 

Skills: This assignment will help you practice skills essential to success in and beyond this course:

• Support claims effectively using varied forms of evidence.
• Analyze how style, audience, social context, and purpose shape your writing in electronic and print spaces.

Knowledge: This assignment will help you become familiar with the following important knowledge:

• Demonstrate an understanding of the rhetorical situation. 
• Apply elements of rhetoric and argumentation in writing. 

You may choose to write a proposal argument , a definition argument , or a causal argument . Directions for each type of argument are provided below. No matter what type of argument you choose to write, the following apply:

• Topic : Seek approval from your instructor on your topic before beginning this assignment.   Audience: Select a primary audience who you think should care about your argument. Use appropriate language, organization, and examples to suit your audience. Note that your secondary audience is your classmates and instructor.
• Purpose and significance : The culprits or consequences shouldn't be so obvious that no argument is necessary. Consider the following questions as you establish the purpose and significance of your argument: Why is the argument important? Why is it controversial? What is at stake?
• Counterarguments : Take alternative viewpoints seriously. Your goal should be to choose the strongest support for your argument, but remember that real-world problems are rarely simple, so avoid taking an all-or-nothing position. Take opposing viewpoints into consideration and make concessions and offer counterarguments as appropriate.
• Research : If directed to incorporate research by your instructor, include information from at least three credible sources. Integrate source information effectively by using lead-in phrases; summarizing, paraphrasing, and quoting as appropriate; and citing correctly, both within the body of your essay and on the Works Cited page.
• Length and format : Your essay should be 4–5 pages long, double-spaced. 

Formatting requirements: Follow MLA format. Use black Calibri or Times New Roman font in size 12. Double-space the entire document. Use 1-inch margins on all sides. 

Option 1: Proposal Argument 

Write a practical proposal that in which you recommend a solution to a problem that you perceive in the world. Choose an important topic that matters to you and that you believe will matter to others; craft a proposal in which you argue for positive change. 

In general, a proposal argument essay should have three main sections:  

• A description of the problem  
• Your proposed solution
• Justification for the solution you are proposing

(You may [and should] include additional sections or subsections as needed.)  

Example of a proposal argument thesis statement : Our school should require all incoming freshmen to take a philosophy class so they can learn to understand and analyze multiple perspectives.  

Examples of questions you might consider:  

• Should students be required to take philosophy classes?
• Should new and expecting parents be given the option of enrolling in parenting classes at no cost to them?  
• Should the county install cameras on all traffic lights?  
• Should the school cut down a forested acre of land to build a new parking lot?
• Should public schools teach both English and Spanish beginning in kindergarten?  

Option 2:  Definition Argument 

Construct a definition argument based on your definition of a controversial term: argue that an object or concept qualifies as a certain term, which you define based on specific criteria. Choose an important term that matters to you and that you believe will matter to others; base your argument on your own definition of that term.

Example of a definition argument thesis statement: Caffeine is a drug because it has predictable, measurable effects on the user’s central nervous system.    Potential words for definition: animal, animal cruelty, art, beautiful, cheating, disease, drug, evil, food, hate crime, healthy, natural, poison, role model, sport    You may choose a word not on the list. However, be sure to 1) check with your instructor, and 2) choose something that can be reasonably debated. 

• Is caffeine a drug?
• Is alcoholism a disease?
• Are human beings animals?
• Is refined sugar a poison?
• Is kayaking a sport?  

Examples of definition argument thesis statements:  

• Caffeine is a drug because it causes physiological changes and is addictive.  
• Kayaking is a sport because it requires physical exertion and can be done competitively. 

Option 3: Causal Argument 

Construct a causal argument in which you argue that a specific cause or causes led to a specific outcome, or that a specific action will result in a specific consequence. (Do NOT argue that a person or group should or should not take an action; this would be a proposal rather than a causal argument.)  

Example of a causal argument thesis statement: Regular journaling leads to improved academic outcomes for incoming freshmen by helping them cope with stress, improve their writing skills, and develop their ability to concentrate for sustained periods of time. 

• Does journaling lead to benefits for students?  
• Do stimulants cause psychosis?
• Does advertising cause men and women to have unrealistic ideals of physical attractiveness?
• What causes, has caused, or will cause unemployment rates to rise or lower? (For an issue like this, it would be a good idea to consider a specific place and time—for example, in the state of Georgia from 2018-2019.)
• Why or how do people become addicted to a specific substance (sugar, illicit drugs, alcohol, etc.)? 

Criteria for success 

The argument essay should adhere to the following guidelines: .

• The essay meets requirements for the type of argument it is intended to convey (definition argument, proposal argument, or causal argument).
• The essay is based on a clearly stated, arguable thesis statement.
• The thesis is appropriately developed and supported: the writer has provided evidence, examples, and analysis as appropriate.
• The essay is cohesive/stays on topic.
• The writing is clear and coherent/makes sense.
• The tone and language are appropriate for the audience and purpose.
• The essay has an interesting, relevant title.
• The writer has gone through the entire writing process, revising substantially and thoughtfully.
• The writing adheres to grammar and punctuation rules. 

The argument essay should adhere to all formatting criteria: 

• MLA format, in the essay and on the Works Cited page
• Essay length: 800-1200 words
• Font: Size 12, Times New Roman font throughout
• Double-spaced lines
• 1-inch margins on all sides 

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Writing a Proposal Solution Essay Tips

An essay with solutions can be a difficult and challenging task to complete. Tutors when proposing a solution essay as an assignment, want to check student’s critical thinking and ability to solve issues. A problem-solution essay is a type of argument, it’s an essay where students analyze and write about a topic by identifying and explaining a problem proposing one or more solutions to the problem, and trying to convince the reader to take a specific approach. We gathered a few tips for you to ease your problem-solving writing process. Let’s take a look at them.

Create a Problem-Solution Pattern

Create a problem-solution pattern that will divide your writing process into two parts – one will represent the problem and another – the solution, and focus on trying to change the reader’s opinion or behavior. Begin with a little brainstorming, collecting your thoughts and ideas, organizing them, and planning them out into a problem-solution essay outline or a map according to the reader’s mind.

• Spot a good topic
• Specify the problem. Engage the target audience in the problem by assuring that the problem is important and needs to be solved
• Define the solution proposal
• Offer on the best solution
• Explain that the solution you offer is the best
• Oppose objections

Writing an Excellent Essay

Choosing a good topic is an important part of the writing process. Choosing one might seem not an easy thing to do but try to think about situations or people that bother or irritate you. If you’ve thought about a solution for that you may use it as a topic for your essay. Consider also groups (family, friends, college students, hobby and sports clubs, library, hometown community, culture, or language groups, etc.) that you think you belong to and the problems they have; generate a list of the problems and think of solutions that didn’t work or those that could be improved.

When structuring a persuasive solution essay follow the basic essay structure that includes an introductory paragraph with a hook, body paragraphs that analyze data, and a conclusion.

Introduction

In the introduction, it’s essential to define the issue first and present your solution or hint at the solution in a thesis. Try to explain the problem in detail if it happens to be unfamiliar, or create a bright image of the issue in case it is well-known. Mention those who should be concerned about it. The goal is to prove that the problem is very important before the stage of proposing a solution. Here are some tips for you to create an introduction to your essay: portray a realistic story about the issue, give a specific example of a problem from your personal experience, and state facts and information about the problem to make it more vivid for the target audience, specific case, you may use information from TV, books, movies, etc., how people were affected by the problem, and emphasize why it needs to be solved and worth dealing with. After the reader understands the problem the thesis statement proposes the solution and summarizes the solution. Ask a thesis question and propose a valid solution idea you think is the most suitable clearly in one solution sentence that would lead to the body of the essay.

The body of your paper will conclude with three or more paragraphs in which you need to explain the solution of the problem and how it will be solved in detail. Arriving at the solution depends on the way of thinking. Every individual does it differently according to the level of knowledge of the problem, attitude towards the problem, and even profession or field of study. That is why it is crucial to do good topic research. Examine the problem in detail further. Do not jump to conclusions without considering the details. Deciding on the best solution is an important part of writing your paper. Think of the solution that could be achieved effortlessly. Name a person, if necessary, who will be in charge, and provide some confirmation about how your solution will work (opinions of experts, cases when it has worked before, facts, arguments). If it requires some steps or actions to be taken, explain them putting them into a problem-solution order. Try to prove that the solution you offer will solve the problem in the best possible way; and that it is reasonable, cost-effective, sustainable, reliable, and better than other solutions. Analyze alternative solutions by explaining in detail their processes and results, and identify the fragility of the alternative solutions. Oppose objections with clear pieces of evidence. The final sentence of each paragraph should have a suggestion – a description of other solutions that didn’t work, or a further review of the problem.

When writing a conclusion of one or more problem solution paragraphs, mention the negative sides of other solutions, try to back up your argument with facts, and convince the reader that your solution is the best by describing benefits and how the situation will be changed if the plan is supported.

To convince the target audience you need to find an area of agreement with the audience. Try to distinguish your audience for your paper by asking some questions, such as: Who represents your target audience? What do they understand about the issue? What values do they have regarding the issue? What values do you have regarding the issue? What values, principles, and needs do you share? What motivates the audience and how effectively it can be appealed to in your paper?

As with any other essay, every sentence of a solution essay is valuable and all of them should be connected. Edit your writing attentively. Check if an accurate description of a situation was provided which is helpful for the readers to comprehend the issue. Reading the paper aloud might help to spot mistakes and phrases that don’t sound too well. Ask a friend to take a look at your work for possible mistakes, spelling, or any other errors that you’ve missed.

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12 Type 4: Proposal Argument

Proposal arguments.

Proposal arguments attempt to push for action of some kind. They answer the question “What should be done about it?”

In order to build up to a proposal, an argument needs to incorporate elements of definition argument, evaluation argument, and causal argument. First, we will need to define a problem or a situation that calls for action. Then we need to make an evaluation argument to convince readers that the problem is bad enough to be worth addressing. This will create a sense of urgency within the argument and inspire the audience to seek and adopt proposed action. In most cases, it will need to make causal arguments about the roots of the problem and the good effects of the proposed solution.

Below are some elements of proposal arguments. Together, these elements can help us create a sense of urgency about the need for action and confidence in your proposal as a solution.

Common elements of proposal arguments

Background on the problem, opportunity, or situation.

Often just after the introduction, the background section discusses what has brought about the need for the proposal—what problem, what opportunity exists for improving things, what the basic situation is. For example, management of a chain of daycare centers may need to ensure that all employees know CPR because of new state mandates requiring it, or an owner of pine timberland in eastern Oregon may want to make sure the land can produce saleable timber without destroying the environment.

While the named audience of the proposal may know the problem very well, writing the background section is useful in demonstrating our particular view of the problem. If we cannot assume readers know the problem, we will need to spend more time convincing them that the problem or opportunity exists and that it should be addressed.  For a larger audience not familiar with the problem, this section can give detailed context.

Description of the proposed solution

Here we define the nature of what we are proposing so readers can see what is involved in the proposed action. For example, if we write an essay proposing to donate food scraps from restaurants to pig farms, we will need to define what will be considered food scraps. In another example, if we argue that organic produce is inherently healthier for consumers than non-organic produce, and we propose governmental subsidies to reduce the cost of organic produce, we will need to define “organic” and describe how much the government subsidies will be and which products or consumers will be eligible. See  7.2: Definition Arguments for strategies that can help us elaborate on our proposed solution so readers can envision it clearly.

If we have not already covered the proposal’s methods in the description, we may want to add this. How will we go about completing the proposed work? For example, in the above example about food scraps, we would want to describe and how the leftover food will be stored and delivered to the pig farms. Describing the methods shows the audience we have a sound, thoughtful approach to the project. It serves to demonstrate that we have the knowledge of the field to complete the project.

Feasibility of the project

A proposal argument needs to convince readers that the project can actually be accomplished. How can enough time, money, and will be found to make it happen?  Have similar proposals been carried out successully in the past? For example, we might observe that according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Rutgers University runs a program that sends a ton of food scraps a day from its dining halls to a local farm. 1  If we describe how other efforts overcame obstacles, we will persuade readers that if they can succeed, this proposal can as well.

Benefits of the proposal

Most proposals discuss the advantages or benefits that will come from the solution proposed. Describing the benefits helps you win the audience to your side, so readers become more invested in adopting your proposed solution. In the food scraps example, we might emphasize that the Rutgers program, rather than costing more, led to $100,000 a year in savings because the dining halls no longer needed to pay to have the food scraps hauled away.  We could calculate the predicted savings for our new proposed program as well.

In order to predict the positive effects of the proposal and show how implementing it will lead to good results, we will want to use causal arguments. The strategies in  7.5: Causal Arguments will be helpful here. This is a good time to refer back to the problem we identified early in the essay and show how the proposal will resolve that original problem.

Sample annotated proposal argument

The sample essay “Why We Should Open Our Borders” by student Laurent Wenjun Jiang can serve as an example. Annotations point out how Jiang uses several proposal argument strategies.  

• Sample proposal essay “Why We Should Open Our Borders” in PDF with margin notes
• Sample proposal essay “Why We Should Open Our Borders” accessible version with notes in parentheses

Find a proposal argument that you strongly support.  Browse news and opinion websites, or try The Conversation . Once you have chosen a proposal, read it closely and look for the elements discussed in this section.  Do you find enough discussion of the background, methods, feasibility, and benefits of the proposal? Discuss at least one way in which you think the proposal could be revised to be even more convincing.

Works Cited

1 “Fact Sheet About the Food Scraps Diversion Program at Rutgers University.” Environmental Protection Agency, U.S . October 2009,  https://www.epa.gov/sustainable-mana…ers-university . Accessed 12/10/2021.

Attributions

Parts of this section on proposal arguments are original content by Anna Mills and Darya Myers.  Parts were adapted from Technical Writing, which was derived in turn by Annemarie Hamlin, Chris Rubio, and Michele DeSilva, Central Oregon Community College, from Online Technical Writing by David McMurrey – CC BY 4.0 .

Screen-Reader Accessible Annotated Proposal Argument

Format note: This version is accessible to screen reader users.  For a more traditional visual format, see the PDF version of “Why We Should Open Our Borders” above.

Laurent Wenjun Jiang

Prof. Natalie Peterkin

July 25, 2020

Why We Should Open Our Borders

Refugees, inequalities, economic instabilities…the fact that we are bombarded by news on those topics every day is proof that we live in a world with lots of problems, and many of us suffer as a consequence. Nations have tried a variety of solutions, but the reality has not improved. Yet there exists a single easy measure that could solve almost all of the problems mentioned above: an open-border policy. The current border and immigration practices, including border controls and detention centers, are unjustified and counterproductive. (Note: The first body paragraph gives background on the problem, opportunity, or situation.) This paper discusses the refugee problem, the history of open-border policy, the refutations for the current border policies on philosophical and moral grounds, and the arguments why this open-border policy will work economically.

Refugees are a problem of worldwide concern. Recently the biggest wave of refugees came from Syria, which witnessed an eight-year-long civil war. In an interview, a Syrian refugee expresses deep sorrows regarding the loss of her home: “My brothers, sisters, uncles, neighbors, streets, the bread ovens, schools, children going to schools …we miss all of that, everything in Syria is precious to us” she says, with tears hovering in her eyes (Firpo). She also exposes the terrible living conditions there: “[W]e didn’t run away, Syria has become uninhabitable. Not even animals could live there. No power, no running water, no safety, and no security. You don’t know who to fight…even when you lock yourself away, you’re not safe…I was most scared of seeing my children die right in front of me” (Firpo). (Note: Moving refugee testimonies serve as evidence supporting the claim that their situation is one of great urgency.) As heart-breaking as it sounds, we should also know that this is only the tip of the iceberg: Gerhard Hoffstaedter, an anthropologist at the University of Queensland, states that there are around 70 million displaced people in developing countries, which is the highest recorded number since the 1950s, causing the United Nations to call this world issue “a crisis.” The leading nations in the world do not offer enough support to displaced people living in abject conditions. Refugees at the U.S.-Mexico border and in Southeast Asia and Australia are constantly kept in detention centers. Many nations do not comply with the provisions signed in the 1951 Refugee Convention and the succeeding 1967 Protocol; they treat the refugees only as those in passive need of simply humanitarian aids (Hoffstaedter). In this crisis, it is our common responsibility as members of an international community to help those who are in need.

Historically, the large-scale control of the mobility of people is a relatively new phenomenon worldwide. (Note: This body paragraph starts with a definition argument to show that the current trend is new. This argument later becomes support for the idea that open borders are possible.) In the modern era, border signifies “ever more restrictive immigration policies” at the same time grants “greater freedom of mobility to capital and commodities”, as defined in the editorial “Why No Borders.” This creates a contradictory ideology that could cause potential harm to those who need to migrate (Anderson, et al.). John Maynard Keynes dates the beginning of this process only back to World War I in the early 20th century. However, this trend did not become widespread until after World War II. According to a historical outline created by Christof Van Mol and Helga de Valk, due to the booming in the industrial production in northwestern Europe in the 1950s, the local workers were increasingly educated and gradually became whitecollar employers, leaving vacancies in blue-collar occupations (Mol and Valk).

Thus, those countries started recruiting immigrants from other parts of Europe and even North Africa: for example, Germany and France started seasonal working programs to attract immigrants (Mol and Valk). Because of the lack of job opportunities in the other parts of Europe and North Africa and the need for workers in the industrializing countries in Northern and Western Europe, “international migration was generally viewed positively because of its economic benefits, from the perspective of both the sending and the receiving countries” (Mol and Valk). This early migration pattern within Europe provides the basic model for the European Union that builds on the fundamental ideology of the free movements of goods and human resources. In recent days, the European Union has become one of the biggest multinational organizations, which can also serve as a successful example of this open-border ideology, at least on a regional scale.

Borders do not satisfy the needs of contemporary societies. From both philosophical and moral perspectives, restrictive border policies are not justified. First of all, borders divide and subjugate people. The editorial “Why No Borders” describes the border as being“thoroughly ideological” (Anderson, et al.). The authors argue that because border policies try to categorize people into “desirable and non-desirable” according to their skills, race, or social status, etc., they thus create an interplay between “subjects and subjectivities,” placing people into “new types of power relationship” (Anderson, et al.). This is what is identified as the ultimate cause of the divisions and inequalities between people.

Some fear that competition from immigrants would cause a reduction in the wages of local workers (Caplan). (Note: In this body paragraph, the author attempts to disprove the counterargument about a downside of open borders for local workers.) This is not an uncalled-for worry, but it is also a misunderstanding of the nature of the open-border policy. Nick Srnicek reasons that this kind of competition has already existed under the current trend of globalization, where workers in developed countries are already competing against those in developing countries that have cheaper labor. He argues, “Workers in rich countries are already losing, as companies eliminate good jobs and move their factories and offices elsewhere” (Srnicek). The border serves companies by making workers in the developing world stay where wages are low. Thus, “companies can freely exploit” cheap labor. In this sense, workers on both sides will be better off under an open-border policy (Srnicek). A recent study from the University of Wisconsin-Madison investigating the economic implications of immigration between rich and poor countries concluded that the benefits of an open-border policy far outweigh the cons and that “the real wage effects are small” (Kennan).

Although an open border could lead to minor reductions in the wages of local workers in developed countries, there is a simple solution. Since the labor market follows the economic law of supply, work supply and wages are inversely related, meaning that the lower the supply of labor, the more wages rise. (Note: This paragraph could be seen as a limit and a rebuttal because the open border would need to be combined with changes to labor laws in order to avoid a possible bad effect.) Nick Srnicek proposes, “a shortening of the workweek…would reduce the amount of work supplied, spread the work out more equally among everyone and give more power to workers … more free time to everyone” (Srnicek). Thus, although the open-border policy is not perfect, its downside is easy to address. (Note: The author does not investigate how much time, money, and will an open border policy would need; the argument remains mostly theoretical because it doesn’t address feasibility.)

As an expatriate myself, I can truly relate to this type of thinking. Due to a variety of the political, economic, and social limitations that I came across in my home country, I was not able to achieve self-actualization. In pursuit of a better education and a more free living environment, I went abroad and finally arrived in this country a few years ago. It was not until then that I gained a vision of my future. Now I am working in hopes that one day the vision could become reality. Sometimes I cannot help wondering what could happen if I was not so lucky to be where I am today. But at the same time, I am also conscious of the fact that there are also millions of people out there who cannot even conceive of what it is like to actualize their lives. (Note: The conclusion humanizes the possible benefits of the proposed solution.) I am sure that one of the mothers who escaped her war-torn home country with her family has the sole hope to witness her children growing up in a happy and free place, just like any mother in the world. I am sure that there is one little girl whose family fled her country in desperation who once studied so hard in school, dreaming of becoming the greatest scientist in the world. I am also sure that there is a young boy who survived persecutions and wishes to become a politician one day to make the world a better place for the downtrodden. Because of borders, these children can only dream of the things that many of us take for granted every day. We, as human beings, might be losing a great mother, great scientist, great politician, or just a great person who simply wishes for a better world. But everything could be otherwise. Change requires nothing but a minimal effort. With open borders, we can help people achieve their dreams.

Hoffstaedter, Gerhard. “There Are 70 Million Refugees in the World. Here Are 5 Solutions to the Problem.” The Conversation , 24 Mar. 2020, theconversation.com/there-are-70-million-refugees-in-the-world-here-are-5- solutions-to-the-problem-118920.

Anderson, Sharma. “Editorial: Why No Borders?” Refuge , vol. 26, no. 2, 2009, pp.5+. Centre for Refugee Studies, York University. Accessed July 26, 2020.

D, D. “Keynes, J. M., The economic consequences of the peace.” Ekonomisk tidskrift, vol. 22, no. 1, Basil Blackwell Ltd., etc, Jan. 1920, p. 15–. Accessed July 26, 2020.

Srnicek, Nick. “The US$100 Trillion Case for Open Borders.” The Conversation , 18 Feb. 2020, theconversation.com/the-us-100-trillion-case-for-open-borders-72595.

Caplan, Bryan. “Why Should We Restrict Immigration?” Cato Journal , vol. 32, no. 1, 2012, pp. 5-24. ProQuest , https://libris.mtsac.edu/login?url=https://search- proquest-com.libris.mtsac.edu/docview/921128626?accountid=12611.Accessed July 26, 2020.

Kennan, John. “Open Borders in the European Union and Beyond: Migration Flows and Labor Market Implications.” NBER Working Paper Series, 2017,  www.nber.org/papers/w23048.pdf.

Firpo, Matthew K., director. Refuge . 2016. The Refuge Project, www.refugeproject.co/watch.

Van Mol, Cristof, and Helga de Valk. “Migration and Immigrants in Europe: A Historical and Demographic Perspective.” Integration Processes and Policies in Europe , edited by Blanca Garcés-Mascareñas and Rinus Penninx, 2016, IMISCOE Research Series, pp. 33-55.

Attribution

This sample essay was written by Laurent Wenjun Jiang and edited and annotated by Natalie Peterkin. Licensed CC BY-NC 4.0 .

Chapter Attribution

This chapter is from “Forming a Research-Based Argument” in in How Arguments Work: A Guide to Writing and Analyzing Texts in College by Anna Mills under a CC BY-NC 4.0 license.

Upping Your Argument and Research Game Copyright © 2022 by Liona Burnham is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Home — Essay Types — Proposal Essay

Proposal Essay Examples

Exploring proposal essay topics opens up a realm of possibilities for addressing various issues and challenges, ranging from practical business plans to cutting-edge engineering solutions. These topics serve as the foundation for constructing well-reasoned proposals, demonstrating the thoughtfulness and ingenuity of the writer. Whether you are delving into Economics, Business Management, Engineering, or any other field, proposal essay topics provide the canvas upon which your innovative ideas can be sketched and evaluated.

Proposal Essay Ideas and Topics

The realm of proposal essays is vast and encompasses a multitude of ideas and topics across various disciplines. Here are a few proposal essay ideas and topics, along with some proposal essay examples, to inspire your own academic exploration:

• Environmental Sustainability : Propose initiatives to combat climate change and promote sustainable practices in urban areas.
• Education Reform: Offer innovative solutions to enhance the quality of primary and secondary education, addressing challenges such as remote learning and educational inequality.
• Healthcare Access: Propose policies to improve access to healthcare services, especially in underserved communities.
• Business Strategies: Suggest strategies for small businesses to thrive in the digital age, adapting to evolving market trends and consumer behaviors.
• Technological Advancements: Explore proposals for ethical and sustainable technological advancements, focusing on areas like renewable energy sources or artificial intelligence ethics.

Proposal Argument Essay Topics

Proposal argument essay topics encompass a wide range of issues and ideas that can be explored and debated. These topics typically revolve around proposing a solution or course of action to address a specific problem or challenge. Here are some proposal argument essay topics to consider:

• Implementing Stricter Gun Control Laws to Reduce Gun Violence
• Promoting Sustainable Agriculture and Reducing Food Waste
• Reforming the Criminal Justice System to Focus on Rehabilitation
• Addressing the Student Loan Debt Crisis with Debt Forgiveness Programs
• Combating Climate Change through Renewable Energy Initiatives
• Improving Mental Health Support and Services in Schools
• The Impact of Technological Advancements
• Promoting Gender Equality in the Workplace through Pay Equity Measures
• Enhancing Cybersecurity Measures to Protect Personal Data
• Combating Childhood Obesity through Healthier School Lunch Programs

When considering a topic for your proposal argument essay, it's essential to choose one that aligns with your interests and allows you to present persuasive arguments supported by compelling evidence and reasoning.

Topic Proposal Essay Example

You might explore the benefits of implementing community policing programs as a solution to improve trust, transparency, and cooperation between the police and the community—a topic proposal essay example that addresses real-world issues and proposes practical solutions for positive change.

These proposal argument essay topics cover a wide range of social, political, environmental, and economic issues, providing ample opportunities for in-depth research and critical analysis. Select a topic that resonates with your passion and enables you to construct a convincing argument for your proposed solution.

In conclusion, a proposal essay is a valuable genre of academic writing that allows students to delve into critical issues, propose solutions, and support their ideas with sound research and evidence. It serves as a platform for innovative thinking and problem-solving across various academic disciplines.

What is a Proposal Essay

A proposal essay is a type of academic writing where the author presents a problem and proposes a solution or course of action to address that problem. This type of essay is often assigned in college courses, and its primary goal is to persuade the reader or audience that the proposed solution is viable, effective, and well-reasoned. To better understand how to craft a proposal essay, it can be helpful to explore proposal essay examples , which you can find on our essays base.

Proposal essays can cover a wide range of topics, from social and environmental issues to business and policy proposals. They are a valuable exercise in critical thinking, research, and persuasive writing, as they require the author to analyze a problem, develop a well-considered solution, and present it convincingly to an audience. These essays are commonly assigned in college courses to assess students’ ability to think critically and propose practical solutions to real-world problems.

Proposal and personal narrative essays are distinct in their purpose, structure, and content. A proposal essay aims to persuade the reader to accept a proposed solution to a problem or support a specific course of action. It typically includes an introduction presenting the issue, a statement of the proposed solution, evidence supporting the proposal, and a conclusion summarizing the argument. On the other hand, a personal narrative essay recounts a personal experience or event and reflects on its significance. It often involves vivid storytelling, introspection, and conveying emotions to engage the reader and convey a deeper understanding of the narrator’s journey.

How to Write Proposal Essay and Tips for Success

Navigating the world of proposal essays can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a vast array of potential topics. The key to success lies in understanding how to craft a proposal essay that not only captures the attention of your professor and audience but also persuades them to take action. When writing a proposal essay , consider these essential steps and tips to create a compelling and persuasive piece of academic writing.

Much like a research outline, a proposal essay delves into an event or argument, providing compelling reasons for why a particular action should be taken or why a certain social event may not be beneficial. The structure of your proposal will largely depend on your chosen topic and objectives. For instance, financial reports may necessitate the inclusion of statistical data, while fashion studies may require a different approach to essay writing. When learning how to write a proposal essay , it’s crucial to tailor your approach to your specific subject matter. The overarching goal is to present a clear and convincing piece of evidence right from the introduction.

By incorporating insights and exploring proposal essay examples , you can confidently craft compelling proposals that leave a lasting impact.

How to Write Proposal Essay Introduction

The introduction of a proposal essay plays a crucial role in engaging the reader and setting the stage for the proposal’s main arguments. It typically begins with a hook or attention-grabbing statement to draw the reader in. Here’s a proposal essay introduction example :

“Imagine a community where families struggle to put food on the table, where children go to bed hungry each night. This is the harsh reality faced by many residents in our town. In this proposal essay, we will address the pressing issue of food insecurity in our community and present a viable solution that can make a significant difference—the establishment of a community food bank. This proposal aims to not only alleviate hunger but also foster a sense of unity and support among our residents. In the following sections, we will explore the reasons behind food insecurity, the benefits of the proposed food bank, and the steps needed for its successful implementation.”

This introduction effectively grabs the reader’s attention by highlighting a pressing issue and presenting the proposed solution, setting the stage for the essay’s main arguments and supporting evidence.

Structuring Your Proposal Essay

At its core, a proposal essay is similar to a research outline, where you will discuss an event or argument and provide compelling reasons for why a particular action should be taken or why a certain social event may not be beneficial. The structure of your proposal will largely depend on your chosen topic and objectives. For instance, financial reports may necessitate the inclusion of statistical data, while fashion studies may require a different approach to essay writing. Regardless of the topic, the overarching goal is to present a clear and convincing piece of evidence right from the introduction.

• Introduction with a hook sentence. 
• Thesis statement . 
• Three body paragraphs where you set your objectives by explaining your proposal with the statistical data, surveys, and other facts. 
• Conclusion . It must be kept brief as you work on your topic. The major part should be taken from your proposal’s justification. 
• A literature review.

To craft a proposal essay, consider these essential elements:

• A captivating introduction : Grab the reader’s attention from the outset by highlighting the significance of your topic and why it warrants consideration.
• A well-defined problem statement: Clearly articulate the issue or challenge that your proposal aims to address.
• A compelling solution: Propose a well-thought-out solution to the identified problem, ensuring its feasibility and effectiveness.
• Supporting evidence: Substantiate your proposal with relevant data, research findings, or expert opinions.
• A persuasive conclusion: Reiterate the significance of your proposal and its potential impact, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

7 Most Common Proposal Essay Mistakes to Avoid

Addressing these common mistakes will significantly improve the quality and effectiveness of your proposal essay.

Examples of a Proposal Essays

To further enhance your understanding, let’s delve into a few examples of proposal essays :

• Example 1 : Advocating for a Greener Campus

Propose the implementation of sustainable practices on campus, such as energy-efficient lighting, recycling programs, and composting initiatives.

• Example 2: Addressing the Issue of Homelessness

Advocate for the establishment of a community shelter or propose a volunteer program to assist the homeless population.

• Example 3 : Promoting Healthy Eating Habits

Suggest the introduction of healthier food options in school cafeterias or advocate for nutrition education programs.

Remember : Tailor your proposal essay to the specific requirements of your assignment and ensure it aligns with your chosen topic.

How to Write a Proposal Argument Essay

Writing a proposal argument essay involves a structured approach to presenting your ideas, arguments, and proposed solutions to a specific issue or problem. Here are the key steps to follow when learning how to write a proposal argument essay :

• Choose a Relevant Topic
• Research Extensively
• Identify Your Audience
• Craft a Strong Thesis Statement
• Outline Your Essay
• Write a Compelling Introduction
• Present Your Arguments
• Address Counterarguments
• Propose Solutions
• Conclude Effectively
• Revise and Edit
• Cite Sources
• Seek Feedback

Remember that a well-written proposal argument essay presents a clear problem, provides compelling evidence, and offers practical solutions while considering the needs and perspectives of the audience.

Key Differences Between Proposal Argument Essays and Proposal Essays

The key difference between proposal argument essays and proposal essays is that proposal argument essays argue for why their proposal is the best one, while proposal essays do not. Proposal argument essays are also typically more persuasive than proposal essays.

Proposal argument essay examples :

• An essay that proposes a new law to reduce gun violence.
• An essay that proposes a new program to help homeless people find housing.
• An essay that proposes a new marketing strategy for a business.

Proposal essay examples:

• An essay that proposes a new curriculum for a school.
• An essay that proposes a new event for a community.
• An essay that proposes a new product or service for a company.

Which Type of Essay Should You Write?

The type of essay that you should write depends on your assignment and your audience. If you are writing an essay for a class, your professor will likely tell you which type of essay to write. If you are writing an essay for a professional audience, you should choose the type of essay that will be most effective in persuading your audience to support your proposal.

Both proposal argument essays and proposal essays can be effective ways to communicate your ideas and persuade others to support your cause. When choosing which type of essay to write, it is important to consider your assignment, your audience, and the purpose of your essay.

General Essay Proposal Examples

Proposal essay writing checklist.

Instead of offering a classic structure template that won’t relate to your course topic, you must follow our free checklist that will provide you with much better assistance as you compare your paper to what we have: 

• Your objectives are included in the first sentence in the introduction. (It should also be reflected in your hook sentence and the title of your proposal.)
• You provide a background of a problem in the introduction.
• Your proposal has a brief literature review that will be used as the supporting data.
• Your proposal essay explains why your objectives will be met. (It’s the heart of your proposal. Use an explanatory tone as you apply analysis.)
• Your tone is persuading by turning to quotes and the evidence.
• Your conclusion is brief and simply re-states your thesis ideas.

Take your time to explore various proposal essay examples to see how much scope you should use when discussing some argument. Keep your tone unbiased when you provide information that represents what’s being common sense. Refer to your course and talk things out with your academic advisor to ensure that your proposal essay’s theme has been fully understood.

Explore also analytical essay writing tips. They are dissecting the intricacies of this essay type. Analytical essays differ from proposals in their approach to analysis and argumentation. While both essays types require critical thinking, analytical essays emphasize interpretation and examination over persuasion and advocacy.

Transforming Traditional Business: An Electronic Business Proposal

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Community Service Project: Improving Education for Low-Income Families

Introduction Education is a fundamental right that every individual should have access to, yet many low-income families struggle to provide adequate education for their children. The purpose of this community service project proposal essay is to address this issue and provide a solution that will…

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What is a proposal essay?

It is an idea with a list of facts that help the readers see why a particular suggestion is good or bad. The proposal essay topics are limitless. They can deal with education and propound the benefits of distance learning or turn to technology and research the woes of video games. Good proposal essay examples should provide evidence and a list of arguments.

How to write a proposal essay?

A good paper proposal example should include a brief explanation of why you have chosen the topic with a clear thesis statement. The key is to introduce your idea and explain why you think it matters. Check out our essay proposal example to see how it turns to trusted evidence and lists reliable references or similar research on the subject.

What is the primary purpose of a proposal essay?

The primary purpose of a proposal essay is to advocate for a specific idea, solution, or change and provide convincing arguments and evidence to persuade the reader of its feasibility and importance.

How should I choose a proposal essay topic?

Choose a proposal essay topic that you are passionate about and that addresses a real problem or issue. Consider topics that interest you and are relevant to your audience or community.

What is the difference between a proposal essay and a research paper?

While both involve research and writing, a proposal essay focuses on advocating for a specific idea or solution, whereas a research paper typically presents findings and analysis of existing research on a broader topic.

Are proposal essays used outside of academic settings?

Yes, proposal essays are used in various professional and real-world settings, such as business proposals, grant applications, and policy recommendations, in addition to academic assignments.

The most popular topics for Proposal Essay

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What Is a Proposal Argument Essay?

Arin bodden.

A proposal argument is one of the most common and effective forms of argumentation. Done well, it can influence the opinion of even the most opposed audience member. While there are a variety of methods in constructing this type of argument, the audience, purpose, and basic components remain the same and must always be included. A proposal argument defines a problem and suggests a remedy, solution or course of action for a specified audience; additionally, this style of argument examines various sides of the issue so that the audience is well-informed.

Explore this article

• Audience & Purpose
• When writing a proposal argument
• Description of Problem
• Is a description
• Proposed Solution
• In a proposal argument
• Justification for Solution
• You can have an excellent solution

1 Audience & Purpose

2 when writing a proposal argument.

When writing a proposal argument, define your audience and your purpose. The tone and structure of your argument can vary widely depending on these factors; for example, a proposal argument to invoke limits on welfare would look very different if you are writing it to a senator as opposed to welfare recipients. Knowing your purpose makes the paper’s effectiveness easier to ascertain. If your purpose is to persuade your school’s president that core classes should not be required, use that purpose to evaluate whether or not the argument is successful.

3 Description of Problem

4 is a description.

One of the core elements of a proposal argument is a description of the existing problem. This description can include extensive historical or social context, a review of the surrounding issues and a clear and complete discussion of the significance of the problem. Keep your audience in mind so that this description shows how the problem applies directly to them and their lives, values and cares. Use concrete details, vivid examples and compelling facts to show how the problem has immediacy in the lives of your readers. This description is the key to setting up your argument for success.

5 Proposed Solution

6 in a proposal argument.

In a proposal argument, you go beyond explaining the problem; you also present a solution that is well-considered and will resonate with your audience. The solution most likely will take research so you can back it up with facts. Use this section of your essay to set out your proposal in detail, showing any kinds of costs associated, how the solution will work in a step-by-step fashion, the difficulties and successes anticipated in undertaking the solution and how this proposal will solve the problem you laid out. This is the section to explore the solution in a manner that causes your audience to buy into your ideas.

7 Justification for Solution

8 you can have an excellent solution.

You can have an excellent solution, but in order to convince your audience to accept it, you must justify how the solution you set out will impact your selected audience and work for them. This area is not a place for emotional appeals; rather, it is a place for solid facts and concrete conclusions that prove the efficacy of your argument to your audience.

• 1 Kean University: Proposal Essays
• 2 Miracosta College: Proposal Arguments

About the Author

Based in the Pacific Northwest, Arin Bodden started writing professionally in 2003. Her writing has been featured in "Northwest Boulevard" and "Mermaids." She received the Huston Medal in English in 2005. Bodden has a Master of Arts in English from Eastern Washington University. She currently teaches English composition and technical writing at the university level.

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Why Is Car Insurance So Expensive?

Soaring premiums have become a prominent driver of inflation, and insurers say that more increases could be on the way. How did it get like this?

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By Emily Flitter

If your car broke down two years ago, it probably became a bigger problem than you bargained for.

A confluence of forces were to blame: The Covid pandemic disrupted supply chains, pushing used car prices to record highs and making spare parts hard to get; out-of-practice drivers emerging from lockdowns caused more severe wrecks; and technological advancements like motion sensors made even the simplest parts, like a fender or a rim, expensive to replace .

Things have since improved for car owners — except when it comes to insurance bills. Car insurers are still raising prices steeply: The price of motor vehicle insurance rose more than 22 percent in the year through April, the fastest pace since the 1970s, according to a report the Bureau of Labor Statistics on Wednesday. According to calculations by the Insurance Information Institute, a trade group, the average 12-month premium for car insurance was $1,280 in 2023, the industry’s most recent figures.

That has made car insurance a prominent factor preventing overall inflation from cooling more quickly, which could force the Federal Reserve to keep interest rates higher for longer even as the prices for many other essential goods and services have slowed.

Geico recently reported a big jump in quarterly profit on higher premiums and lower customer claims. The share prices of other big auto insurers, like Allstate and Progressive, have beaten the rise in the overall market this year.

That has attracted scrutiny from economists . A key reason car insurance costs are rising so fast right now has to do with how the industry is regulated.

How does insurance regulation work?

Insurers are regulated by the states, not the federal government. In all 50 states, insurance companies must follow specific rules about how and when they can raise the price on their policies.

Each state’s laws are broadly similar, and require insurers to ask regulators for permission to raise prices. Insurers have to make a case — with data to back it up — that the increase is necessary and that they will not make too large a profit on the re-priced policies. This application, known in the business as a “rate filing,” involves complicated paperwork that may take weeks or months to resolve.

The data has to include an analysis of loss trends from the past couple of years, as well as projections for replacement costs and profits. If insurers are deemed to profit too heavily, regulators can make them return money to customers.

The threat of returning money is not an idle one. At the height of pandemic lockdowns in 2020, when many cars sat idle, insurers returned almost $13 billion to customers through dividends, refund checks and premium reductions for policy renewals, according to the insurance ratings agency AM Best.

California was one of the most active states: Insurers there returned $3.2 billion to customers in 2020.

Ricardo Lara, the state’s insurance commissioner, “directed the department to do a very close analysis to make sure that drivers weren’t overcharged,” said Michael Soller, a spokesman for the California Department of Insurance. But starting in late 2021, the state became the poster child for a new problem: an epic backlog of insurers’ requests to raise prices.

How a massive paperwork jam explains rising prices.

When the pandemic shut down most economic activity, it messed up insurers’ ability to use the past to predict the future. For months, they were frozen. They did not submit new rate filings to regulators for a spell — until they did, all at once, in the second half of 2021.

The prices of cars and parts were jumping and drivers were back on the roads and crashing left and right after a hiatus behind the wheel.

“You went from this period of incredible profitability to incredible losses in the blink of an eye,” said Tim Zawacki, an analyst who focuses on insurance at S&P Global Market Intelligence. No companies were willing to stick their necks out by offering lower premiums in the hope of winning new business, he said.

“Everyone was together in significantly pushing for rate increases.”

In California, the most populous U.S. state, insurers were getting creamed by expensive claims.

But the state’s regulator did not start approving insurers’ requests to raise rates until near the end of 2022. The backlog grew so large that the average wait time for approvals was longer — by several months — than the six-month policies that insurers wanted to sell.

“When state regulators delay or prevent companies from accurately pricing insurance, insurers may not be able to absorb the costs,” said Neil Alldredge, the president of the National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies, a trade group that represents many home and auto insurers. The squeeze can lead insurers to leave some states or stop some business lines, he added. “Inefficient regulatory environments in states like California, New Jersey and New York, combined with inflation and increased catastrophic losses, have left consumers with fewer choices of insurers and higher costs,” he said.

California is still the slowest state in the continental United States for auto insurance rate filings, taking an average of 219 days to approve a price proposal for a personal auto policy, according to S&P data provided by Mr. Zawacki.

“We fight for consumers by analyzing all of the data, not just what insurance companies spoon-feed us,” Mr. Soller, the California Department of Insurance spokesman, said.

The S&P analysis showed that New Jersey, the 11th-most populous state, had the sixth-longest wait time, while New York, with the fourth-largest population, had the 7th-longest wait times.

“The department performs a comprehensive review of requests to amend rates or rating systems to ensure compliance with New Jersey law,” said Dawn Thomas, a spokeswoman for the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance.

Ms. Thomas said the regulator needed to ensure that each proposed premium increase was “reasonable, adequate, and not unfairly discriminatory,” and that sometimes the insurers’ requests needed to be challenged or denied.

A spokeswoman for New York’s regulator declined to comment.

When will the jam clear?

Shortly before the pandemic, the umbrella organization for state insurance regulators, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, formed a team of data scientists to help regulators deal with their rate filings, which has gotten more complicated in recent years.

The data team became fully operational in 2021 and its mission is now to help speed up the review process: 37 states have signed up to use it.

This month, during a call with analysts to discuss Allstate’s earnings, company representatives said they had recently reopened their California auto insurance business after getting permission to charge higher rates. The company still wanted to raise prices in other states.

In New York and New Jersey, for example, “even with the rate approvals that we got late last year, we still don’t feel like we’re at the appropriate rate level to want to grow in those two states,” said Mario Rizzo, the president of Allstate’s property-casualty business.

How much higher will premiums go?

In 2021, insurers’ personal auto businesses started recording losses. According to David Blades, an analyst for AM Best, the industry lost $4 billion in 2021, $33 billion in 2022 and roughly $17 billion last year.

According to Dale Porfilio, the chief insurance officer at the Insurance Information Institute, the trade group, many companies still need to raise prices to make up for those bad years.

Last year, insurers raised auto premiums by 14 percent, the biggest increase in over 15 years. Mr. Porfilio’s best guess is that premiums this year will rise another 13 percent.

“It’s going to take time for every company to get their rates to where they want to be,” he said.

Emily Flitter writes about finance and how it impacts society. More about Emily Flitter