Hi,

I'm in the middle of my PhD in Human Science and I'm applying for a research grant for the first time. I'm writing the application now but not sure if I'm drafting fine.

I have had a bit of rough time in my study for the last few weeks (my SV told me that my research has got to go a long way to reach the PhD standard) and I'm just not confident in doing anything these days. Now this application writing, though it is supposed to be very brief, I don't know if I'm doing right!

Am I supposed to include a reference list (citation also)? The length of supporting statement is about 800 words so I am not including any reference, but is it right thing to do?

I'm basically writing a brief explanation of the background and rationale of my research and main methodology within the 800 words. Would this be sufficient?

I also need to explain my expected expenses. As my research is basically to do with interviews and observations in a oversea site, I just put flight costs and hotel charges, and other local traveling costs. Does this sound fine? Or do I need to consider anything else?

I don't have anyone who could ask around me.. would be really helpful if anyone can give me some advice!!

Thanks a lot.

First tip I have is to make sure you have read any guidance on the funding body's website / documentation really thoroughly. There are often little things that they want including, or won't fund, that it's easy to miss. I gather you're applying for funding to cover fieldwork - if so I'd make sure that your application makes it clear what the rationale for the fieldwork is, how it will assist in answering your main research question, show awareness of any ethical issues you will encounter so perhaps rather than summarising your entire project, forefront what you're asking them to fund (obviously don't do this if there are instructions to the contrary). I have usually not included references when it's been a short statement unless they were specifically asked for. If your research is anywhere considered risky you might need to include some risk assessment statement. On expenses check what they will and will not fund; assume economy flights and cheap accommodation are what will be funded in your costings; you might want to include an amount for day-to-day subsistence; and think about whether you will need translation assistance, a guide or anything similar. Final suggestion is to run the draft application past your supervisor s/he may have some helpful suggestions.