This document is an overview of the sections you'll commonly need in a proposal. With the exception of front and back matter, don't assume that each category has to be in the actual proposal you write, or that the sections have to be in the exact order listed. You may discover that information not mentioned will be included in your particular proposal. Review the following:
Front Matter:
? Cover letter or transmittal letter
? Title page
? Abstract/executive summary
? Table of Contents
Body:
? Thesis
? Background on the problem, opportunity, or situation
? Benefits and feasibility of the proposal
? Description of the proposed work
? Method, procedure, theory
? Schedule
? Costs analysis
? Resources required
? Qualifications
? Conclusion
Back Matter:
? Works Cited
? Appendixes
? Visual Aides
Organization of Proposals
As for the organization of the content of a proposal, remember that the report is essentially a sales or persuasive document. Here are the basic steps to cover:
1. Introduce the proposal, telling the reader its purpose and contents.
2. Present the background-the problem, opportunity, or situation.
3. Get the reader concerned about the problem or excited about the opportunity.
4. State what you propose do about the problem.
5. Tell the reader how to take advantage of the opportunity.
6. Discuss the benefits and advantages of the proposal.
7. Provide a schedule that includes milestones and checkpoints.
8. Briefly list your qualifications for the project.
9. Now, list the costs and resources required for the project.
10. Conclude with a review of reasons and benefits of the proposal.