13.6 Revision Checklist for Proposal

As you reread and revise your proposal, watch out for problems such as the following:

• Make sure you use the right format. Remember, the memo format is for internal proposals; the business-letter format is for proposals written from one external organization to another.
• Write a good introduction.
• Make sure to identify exactly what you are proposing to do.
• Make sure that a report—a written document—is somehow involved in the project you are proposing to do.
• Make sure the sections are in a logical, natural order. For example, don’t present the audience with schedules and costs before you’ve gotten them interested in the project.
• Break out the costs section into specifics; include hourly rates and other such details. Don’t just include the final cost.
• For internal projects, don’t omit the section on costs and qualifications: there will be costs, just not direct ones. For example, how much time will you need, will there be printing, binding costs? Include your qualifications if you think your proposal will go to somebody in the organization who doesn’t know you.
• Watch out for generating technobabble. Yes, some of your proposal readers may know the technical side of your project—but others may not. Challenge yourself to bring difficult technical concepts down to a level that non-specialists can understand.
• Proofread and revise for grammar, mechanics and style.