Organizing a Proposal

In this example, we converted a long letter into a standard proposal format. We are not going to show you the full, final proposal here, but we will describe it, and display a sample module from it.

The original letter, shown below in an abbreviated form, had excellent content and quite good organization, but it was 3 full pages in length (plus an attached brochure and a synopsis of various studies.)

Because the proposal was not modular, it lacked impact and clarity. The apparent length of the "proposal" did not match its true value, and the format lacked professionalism.

This is an excellent example of a common business writing error: being unaware of a basic business communication format that the reader expects. We have more to say about this project, but first, look at the letter on the left and the organization we convert it to, which is described on the right.

(Only the body of the letter is shown here and in an abbreviated form. We have changed some details, including the name of the school.)

Background: A small, private school has been operating out of an old house for the past 12 years. It desperately needs to expand but doesn't have the funds to buy land and build a school. The proposal is to be sent to different foundations and agencies, to get some money for a downpayment on land and building.


Get a Free Price Quote What Our Clients Say Writing Proposals Writing Letters Company Information Our Policies Frequently Asked Questions Free Newsletter: Learn Business Writing Customers' Login Links We Like Other Stuff	Organizing a Proposal In this example, we converted a long letter into a standard proposal format. We are not going to show you the full, final proposal here, but we will describe it, and display a sample module from it. The original letter, shown below in an abbreviated form, had excellent content and quite good organization, but it was 3 full pages in length (plus an attached brochure and a synopsis of various studies.) Because the proposal was not modular, it lacked impact and clarity. The apparent length of the "proposal" did not match its true value, and the format lacked professionalism. This is an excellent example of a common business writing error: being unaware of a basic business communication format that the reader expects. We have more to say about this project, but first, look at the letter on the left and the organization we convert it to, which is described on the right. (Only the body of the letter is shown here and in an abbreviated form. We have changed some details, including the name of the school.) Background: A small, private school has been operating out of an old house for the past 12 years. It desperately needs to expand but doesn't have the funds to buy land and build a school. The proposal is to be sent to different foundations and agencies, to get some money for a downpayment on land and building.
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