JKUAT Research Proposal Format: A Student's Guide
Writing a research proposal is one of the most critical steps in your academic journey at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT). Whether you are an undergraduate student in the Department of Construction Management or a postgraduate candidate, understanding the correct proposal format is essential for approval and successful research execution . This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of the JKUAT research proposal format, covering everything from cover page requirements to detailed chapter structures.
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1. Preliminary Pages and Formatting Requirements
1.1 Cover Page
The cover page is the first impression of your proposal. According to JKUAT guidelines, the project document must bear the standard official cover page for JKUAT-originated research proposals . The cover page should include:
The JKUAT Logo
The project title
The author’s name and affiliation
The month and year of document preparation
For proposals, the cover page should be spiral bound with the title and author’s affiliation centered on one page . Full names should be used (initials should be avoided), and titles like “Dr.” should not appear .
1.2 Project Title Guidelines
Your title plays a crucial role in attracting readers and evaluators. JKUAT guidelines specify that titles should be:
Concise but scientifically valid and sufficiently descriptive
12 to 15 words recommended
Free from redundancies such as “a study of…” or “an investigation of…”
Reflective of the contents of the document
Free from abbreviations
Scientific names should be in italics
Important: Once approved, the title cannot be changed or modified without written consent from the Research Office .
1.3 Declaration and Abstract Pages
The declaration page must include both the candidate’s and supervisor’s declarations, duly signed by both parties. Pagination should use roman numerals starting from the declaration page .
The abstract is a brief statement of the problem, purpose, methodology, key findings, and recommendations. For proposals, it should mention objectives, methodologies, proposed activities, and the budget. The abstract should not exceed 1000 words and should be written last .
1.4 Additional Preliminary Pages
Table of Contents: Rubric in title case, single spaced; chapter titles in caps and bold
List of Tables: Labeled by chapters (e.g., first table in chapter 1 = Table 1.1)
List of Figures: First figure in chapter 1 = Figure 1.1
List of Abbreviations/Acronyms: Arranged alphabetically
Definition of Terms: Define terms in the text that are not common
2. General Formatting Guidelines
2.1 Document Formatting Standards
Based on JKUAT Construction Management guidelines, the entire thesis must be typed using:
Font size 12
1.5 line spacing
Standard English (UK)
Third person singular (avoid first person)
For undergraduate projects, the thesis (inclusive of both semesters) should be between 80-100 pages .
2.2 Citation Systems
JKUAT departments primarily use:
APA (American Psychological Association) for Social Sciences, Biology, Earth Science, Education, and Business
Harvard method is also accepted
Important: 80% of references should be less than five years old unless for archival studies . Consistency in citation style is essential
3. Chapter One: Introduction
3.1 Background to the Study
This section should contextualize the research issue globally, regionally, locally, and at the study area level . It must:
Create reader interest by providing a basis for the research issue
Frame the study within the larger scholarly literature context
Highlight specific knowledge gaps leading to the problem statement
3.2 Statement of the Problem
The problem statement points out the precise gap in literature, theory, or practice . According to JKUAT Construction Management guidelines, it must include:
Magnitude (figures and percentages)
Extent (spatial coverage)
Intensity (degree of the problem)
Significance (importance of the problem)
Sensitivity (ecological, cultural, economic, political)
Consequences and mitigation strategy
3.3 Research Objectives
Objectives must be SMARTER: Specific, Measurable, Attainable/Achievable, Realistic, Time-bound, Evaluable, Reportable . Use outcome-based verbs like “identify,” “find out,” “define,” “relate,” “describe” unless using exploratory qualitative research .
3.4 Research Questions and Hypotheses
Questions should stem from objectives creatively and should not elicit yes/no responses . Hypotheses are directional declarations of relationships between variables, stated as alternative (H1) and null (H0) hypotheses .
3.5 Justification and Significance
This section should clearly show the importance of the project by demonstrating anticipated benefits exceed expected expenditure . Mention beneficiaries and how they may benefit from the findings .
3.6 Scope, Limitations, and Assumptions
Scope: Physical coverage, subject coverage, variable coverage
Limitations: Anticipated shortcomings beyond researcher’s control
Assumptions: Statements taken for granted about behavior, conditions, methods, and measurements
3.7 Theoretical and Conceptual Frameworks
Theoretical Framework: A structure derived from existing relevant theories. Mention proponents, cite main points, and demonstrate the link to the study .
Conceptual Framework: The researcher’s own perception showing how variables interact. Should include original visualization, direction of interactions, diagrammatic format, and brief explanation .
4. Chapter Two: Literature Review
4.1 Structure and Content
The literature review should include:
Theoretical Review: Identify 2-3 theories on which the study is hinged; show how they support the current study
Conceptual Framework: Identify variables and demonstrate understanding of what influences what
Review of Related Literature: Cite 3-5 references per key section; each key variable should be 2-3 pages long
Empirical Review: What has been done by other researchers including methodologies used
Research Gaps: Show clearly which gaps exist in knowledge including methodology, theory, and scope
Summary: Capture key knowledge issues, controversies, research gaps, and the actual gap your research will address
5. Chapter Three: Research Methodology
5.1 Research Design
State the design adopted and provide justification citing authority. Link the design to the study topic .
5.2 Target Population and Sampling
Clearly identify and justify the target population
Give figures in numbers and source
Explain the method of deriving a sample category (random sampling, purposive, convenient, snowballing)
Present sample size in a table format
5.3 Research Instruments
Describe each instrument (questionnaire, interview guide, etc.). Ensure instruments link to objectives and research questions .
5.4 Pilot Study and Validity/Reliability
Describe how instruments will be tested for validity and reliability. Explain how validity and reliability will be established .
5.5 Data Collection and Analysis
Explain field data collection methods and techniques
Explain methods for analyzing data based on each objective
Clarify methods of analysis for each research question/hypothesis
Explain how data will be presented (text, tables, figures, graphics)
5.6 Logistical and Ethical Considerations
Logistical: Authorizations, procedures for field access
Ethical: Confidentiality, anonymity, informed consent, protection of human right.
6. Proposal Supervision and Approval Process
Each student is allocated a supervisor and advised to see them at least once a week . Attendance log sheets are provided for recording supervisor feedback . The proposal must be presented in seminars as required by JKUAT statutes .
6.1 Proposal vs. Final Thesis
| Document | Chapters | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Proposal | Chapters 1-3 + References + Appendices | Future tense; spiral bound |
| Final Thesis | Chapters 1-5 + References + Appendices | Past tense; hard bound |
Conclusion
Writing a research proposal for JKUAT requires careful attention to formatting guidelines, proper structure, and adherence to academic standards. Remember that the proposal is a plan for future research and should be written in future tense, while the final thesis is a report in past tense .
Important: The title of the project once approved cannot be changed or modified without the written consent of the Research Office . Furthermore, assessment will take cognizance of originality and relevant conclusions . Students should note that 80% of references should be less than five years old unless for archival studies .
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