WRITING TIPS FOR A GOVERNMENT GRANT PROPOSAL

 

General
Follow the guidelines exactly (even when they make little sense).

Fill in all the blanks.

Double check all computations.

Repeat anything asked for.
Style
The writing style must reflect what the funding source wants and what the reviewers are looking for.
  1. Determine the following about the proposal reviewers:
    1. level of expertise;
    2. familiarity with your proposal area; and
    3. the amount of time given to the evaluation of the proposal.
  1. The proposal must be readable and skimmable.
To enhance readability:
  1. Begin each section with a strong motivating "lead" sentence.
  2. Use an active voice and describe emotions and feelings.
  3. Cite dialogue.
  4. Use humor (in a nonoffensive way).
  5. Ask the funding source a question and answer it.
To produce an easily skimmable proposal:
  1. Use active verbs.
  2. Use words the reviewers expect.
  3. Use shorter words (as opposed to long, complex words) whenever possible.
  4. Use short sentences.
  5. Use contractions.
  6. Use short paragraphs (from five to seven lines).
  7. Underline.
  8. Use bullets, stars, etc.
  9. Use different type faces.
  1. Change margins and spacing.
  2. Use bold headings.
  3. Use pictures.
  4. Use charts and graphs.
  5. Use handwriting where appropriate.