"An important,
engaging, and substantive book. The authors lead the reader through the proposal maze
logically and clearly."
David Schimel, National Center for Atmospheric Research
Writing a successful science
proposal can seem intimidating and even baffling. What makes one proposal stand out from
the tens of thousands that are submitted each year to government agencies, private
corporations and foundations, and academic committees? This authoritative and readable
book explains every aspect of proposal writing, from conceiving and designing a project to
analyzing data, synthesizing results, and estimating a budget. It is a step-by-step guide
to writing an effective and competitive scientific proposal.
The book starts with a
discussion of the earliest ideas and formulations of a project, then examines the issue of
authorship, different granting agency formats, and ways to ensure a strong scientific
foundation for a proposal. The book offers advice on selecting a strong title, developing
an effective summary, articulating objectives and hypotheses, writing a good introduction,
choosing experimental designs and methods, planning for expected and unexpected results,
and the ethics of research. Guidance on the final phases of a proposal is also provided -
how to list references, track the progress of the proposal, revise, and resubmit. For any
scientist embarking on a thesis or grant application, this book will prove an essential
companion.
Andrew J. Friedland is
professor in the environmental studies program, and Carol L. Folt is professor in the
department of biological sciences, both at Dartmouth College.
171 pages