proposaltips.md

10 tips for proposal writing

These are 10 tips from Rob Kennicutt on how to write a winning proposal:

• Address the big picture. Stress why your science is exciting.
• Keep it simple. Describe a coherent program with a few key elements. Balance long-term results with short-term results.
• Provide depth to establish feasibility.
• Where's the Beef? Present a clear path from data to interpretation to theory to result.
• Perform a feasibility study and give its results.
• Establish your credentials and expertise in a subject area. Your track record does count.
• If it is a renewal application, present your current results.
• If it is a new project highlight current publications in the general area. If it is a pilot study in a new field, stress its relationship to other fields.
• Presentation counts. You should have a clear summary and budget.

The layout should augment the presentation of your ideas, not hinder the proposal. Include a schedule or milestone list for larger projects.