Clarify the objective of the project and explain the idea you are proposing. Briefly discuss the previous work that has been done in this field and identify the lacunae that exist without sounding critical of other researchers. Clearly state how much of the previous work you have used and specify the points where your approach diverges to address the gaps you have found. Whether the project deals with a novel way of imparting knowledge of fundamental concepts or an effective method of training teachers, provide information that proves it is innovative in approach and a significant improvement over existing practices.
Describe the methodology you plan to follow, and the tools, equipment, manpower and other resources you will use in executing the project. Provide details of how you plan to collect statistical data and evaluate the effectiveness and impact of your work. Give details of the time frame over which the project will be implemented. Describe any trial runs that have been conducted to study the feasibility of the project. This will indicate your commitment and passion, and more importantly, it will provide a glimpse of the methodology you plan to adopt and the promise the project holds.
Quote relevant references to back your statements. When the bibliography contains details of similar work done by other people, there is a good chance that your proposal will be sent to some of these for review. If you include references that are not directly related to your field of work, your proposal may reach some reviewer who may not have the relevant experience to judge the merit of your proposal.
Include a one-page project summary that gives a brief and clear description of the aim of the project, the methods to be adopted, the outcome expected and the target audience profile. The summary is the document that appears at the beginning of the proposal and is often used to select reviewers. Write this project summary after you complete writing the entire proposal. This will help you sum up the essence of the project. Highlight sections on Intellectual Merit and Broader Impact of the proposed activity. Proposals without these headings will not be reviewed.
Prepare a budget plan considering all the resources you require implementing the project. Include expenses for supplies, travel and computer services. Remember that there is no chance of receiving funding in excess of what your proposal requests, although there is every possibility of the budget being slashed. Therefore, ensure you cover all your requirements while calculating the budget. Ask for the help of your department's business manager in preparing this part of the proposal.
Read the guidelines provided in the Program Solicitation or Announcement and understand the prescribed format. Make sure the font size, line spacing and number of pages are in keeping with these requirements. Study the Grant Proposal Guide available on the NSF website for more details. Besides formatting details, check your proposal to confirm it meets requirements with respect to the objectives of the program, limits on the budget and text restrictions.