Module 2: Setting up the background and significance for the project Week 3 Supplement 9

SETTING UP YOUR QUESTION How to draft the Background and Significance section of your research proposal

Start Broad; Get Specific 3. Research Question and Hypothesis 2b. Background on methods that would help the reader understand execution and feasibility of study. 2a. Background that logically leads the reader to the main research question and hypothesis 1. Explanation of problem. Why is this area of research is important/signifi cant?

Rule of Thumb An ideal Background and Significance would lead the reader to think to themselves while reading this section “but we don’t know this important piece of the puzzle yet” and discover that your research question addresses that very issue.

Know your audience: Bethel Students Bethel Faculty Present as though your readers are learning material for the first time. Remember, no comprehension = no funding