According to the chapter, what are some common reasons proposals fail, and what strategies are recommended to gain a competitive edge?

Proposals commonly fail when key methodologic decisions lack a clear rationale, when methodologic detail is insufficient, when presentation is poor (e.g., typographical or grammatical errors, poor layout), and when instructions such as page limits are not followed. To gain a competitive edge, the chapter recommends selecting an important problem, knowing your audience, reviewing a successful proposal, creating a strong research team, building a persuasive case, justifying methodologic decisions, paying attention to presentation, and having the proposal critiqued.

The chapter identifies several reasons proposals fail. A major reason is that many proposals do not instill confidence that key decisions have a good rationale; methodologic choices need compelling, evidence-based justification. Insufficient detail and scanty explanation of methodologic choices are also perilous. Presentation problems matter too: in one cited study, 20% of grant applications were criticized for typographical or grammatical errors, poor layout, inconsistencies, or omitted tables. In addition, proposals may be rejected without review if they do not adhere to instructions regarding such matters as font size or page limitations. The chapter also notes that beginning writers may forget they need to present their ideas persuasively, not just describe a good idea and sound methods. To gain a competitive edge, the chapter recommends several strategies. First, select a problem with clinical or theoretical significance and make a persuasive argument that the research could make a noteworthy contribution; casting the proposal in terms of topics of national concern can help. Second, know your audience: for dissertations, understand committee members' expectations; for funding, learn the agency's priorities, examine recently funded projects, study published review criteria, and talk with program staff. Third, review a successful proposal, since examples can be informative. Fourth, create a strong research team with the right mix of competence, using consultants to compensate for gaps, and avoid staffing that is too diluted. Fifth, build a persuasive case with a positive, confident tone, treating the proposal as a marketing opportunity. Sixth, justify methodologic decisions with citations and evidence-based arguments. Seventh, begin with a carefully crafted abstract and end with an upbeat concluding paragraph that summarizes the project's significance and innovativeness. Eighth, adhere precisely to all instructions. Ninth, pay attention to professional presentation. Tenth, have the proposal critiqued by others before formal submission.