Concept paper explained! Get a good grade by knowing how to write a good concept paper.

What Is a concept paper?

Just like a research proposal, a concept paper is  document that summarizes a project matters i.e. the interests, understandings or proficiency of an individual author or organization. In essence, it summarizes a research project. It is a brief document whose length depends on program in question. In sum, a concept paper demonstrates the purpose of  a research project.

How to write a concept paper.

Before articulating the steps to writing a concept paper, there is need to highlight the purpose of a concept paper. This is to persuade donors, colleagues, superiors in your area of assignment the relevance of your project. Hence, always ‘speak in their language.’ It means ensuring your capture your readers attention through prose, writing style and professional terms relevant to the project and area of study.

For instance, you can use an intriguing statistic in your introductory sentence that is both in line with what you are proposing as well as factual

You can also develop a title that captures the reader’s attention and draws their desire to read further on

Therefrom, follow the following steps;

                                             i.            Establish your resolve to write

Write about your project goals and express the interlinkage between your goals and the sponsor’s or donor’s line of work.

                                           ii.            Describe the problem

Outline the problem, how you came to know if its existence and how you intend to solve it.

                                         iii.            Outline why the problem is of concern

This is putting your project in its context. Include statistics and current issues to support the importance of your project. Depending on the nature of your project, personal stories are also included. They are all intended to prove the extremity and extent of the problem thus the need for your solution

                                         iv.            Explain your concept and its workings

This is the implementation plan or formula of your solution. How will your solution be introduced to the intended market. For instance awareness raising and capacity building. If your solution involves the invention of a device, then a prototype is needed. If your project involves a further investigation of the problem, then express your investigation plan.

                                           v.            Express the unique nature of your concept

Your project needs to be set apart from existing projects. It should offer better solutions and include better plans if not completely innovative and creative ones.

                                         vi.            Include output measures you will use to assess the success of your project

A project success needs to be measured. Monitoring and evaluation procedures you intend to use to measure the progress of project as well as outcome need to be included.

                                        vii.            Include a timeline and detailed budget

A project has phases. Provide a timeline for each phase as well as detailed preliminary budget.

                                      viii.            Project summary

This is a conclusion to all the information you have detailed in the concept paper in summary form.

Other factors to consider include;

·         Your concept paper should be precise and concise. It should be brief as well as detailed.

·         Use the necessary vocabulary in the right context

·         Use action-oriented language by proving your actions are doable and showcasing confidence

·         Include your contact information