A research proposal outlines the key elements of a proposed research study, including the problem statement, literature review, hypotheses, methodology, and timeline. It provides a basis for evaluation of the proposed project and guidance for the researcher. The main components of a research proposal are an introduction outlining the problem, a literature review, statement of hypotheses, definition of key terms, methodology describing the design, sample, data collection and analysis, timeline, budget, and bibliography. A good proposal is informative, self-sufficient, addresses ethical issues, and presents a sound analysis plan with a realistic budget and timeline.