Which document outlines specific objectives and expected outcomes of a research project?

A grant proposal is the document that outlines specific objectives and expected outcomes of a research project. It serves as a detailed plan that not only describes the intended research activities but also articulates the goals that the researchers aim to achieve. This includes defining the problem being addressed, the hypotheses being tested, and the significance of the outcomes.

In crafting a grant proposal, researchers must provide a clear rationale for their study, articulate the methodology they will employ, and discuss the expected contributions to the field. This comprehensive overview helps funding agencies assess the viability and importance of the project, making it a critical component of the research funding process.

Other documents, such as a budget report, compliance statement, or research summary, play different roles in the research process. The budget report focuses on the financial aspects of the project, detailing how funds will be allocated. A compliance statement ensures adherence to regulatory or ethical standards, while a research summary typically serves as a brief overview of the completed work rather than outlining future objectives and expected outcomes. Therefore, the grant proposal is uniquely positioned as the document that articulates the project's specific aims and what it seeks to accomplish.