The first step in a research process is a formal, researched proposal. A research proposal is a short, yet formal essay that identifies and outlines the main components of your research on the context, conversation, and potential evidence of your developing argument. The purpose of this proposal is to help you identify a specific topic, explore the perspectives of those invested in and discussing that topic, determine whether or not you can find sufficient research data to develop an argument about the topic, and begin to organize your research strategy and rhetorical approach to that argument.
