Purpose and Audience

In writing your proposal, remember that your advisor expects the same attention to research, analysis, and style that one would find in a professional proposal.

In addition, while your immediate audience is your advisor, your proposal should be understandable to others who are familiar with your field in general, but not necessarily with the particulars of this project or research area.

With these audiences in mind, consider what they already know, what they need to know, and what there specific interests are in relation to your project.

(This situation is similar to that of a professional engineer whose reports need to be intelligible not only to an immediate supervisor but also to corporate executives.)