11: Writing Proposals

Page 316

WRITER’S CHECKLIST

The following checklist covers the basic elements of a proposal. Guidelines established by the recipient of the proposal should take precedence over these general suggestions.

Does the summary provide an overview of

the problem or the opportunity?
the proposed program?
your qualifications and experience?

Does the introduction indicate

the problem or opportunity?
the purpose of the proposal?
the background of the problem or opportunity?
your sources of information?
the scope of the proposal?
the organization of the proposal?
the key terms that you will use in the proposal?
Does the description of the proposed program provide a clear, specific plan of action and justify the tasks you propose performing?

Does the description of qualifications and experience clearly outline

your relevant skills and past work?
the skills and background of the other participants?
your department’s (or organization’s) relevant equipment, facilities, and experience?

Is the budget

complete?
correct?
accompanied by an in-text reference?
Do the appendixes include the relevant supporting materials, such as a task schedule, a description of evaluation techniques, and evidence of other successful projects?