Strategy for NIH Funding
Master the Application
Example of Text Without Formatting
The text below from Does It Look Good? in Master the Application in Part 3. illustrates how text can be virtually unreadabale without formatting.
Does It Look Good? Keep in mind that your reviewers have a multitude of applications to evaluate, so they'll appreciate one that's visually appealing and super user friendly. Here's how to do that: Divide into sections. Use headers to create structure and white space. Also, try breaking up text since blocks of uninterrupted text are depressing to look at. See for yourself at Example of Text Without Formatting (this page) in Part 3. Write Your Application. Guide with graphics. Graphics, timelines, and other visual elements help reviewers grasp a lot of information. Be aware, though, that some application parts, i.e., Project Summary/Abstract and Project Narrative, should be text only. Label all materials clearly. Make it easy for reviewers to find information. Edit and proofread. Your presentation—writing and appearance—can make or break your application, so eliminate typos and internal inconsistencies. And, since two or more sets of eyes are better than one, ask other people—including nonscientists—to read your application.
In contrast, here is the formatted text.
Does It Look Good?
Keep in mind that your reviewers have a multitude of applications to evaluate, so they'll appreciate one that's visually appealing and super user friendly. Here's how to do that:
- Divide into sections. Use headers to create structure and white space. Also, try breaking up text since blocks of uninterrupted text are depressing to look at. See for yourself at Example of Text Without Formatting (this page) in Part 3. Write Your Application.
- Guide with graphics. Graphics, timelines, and other visual elements help reviewers grasp a lot of information. Be aware, though, that some application parts, i.e., Project Summary/Abstract and Project Narrative, should be text only.
- Label all materials clearly. Make it easy for reviewers to find information.
- Edit and proofread. Your presentation—writing and appearance—can make or break your application, so eliminate typos and internal inconsistencies. And, since two or more sets of eyes are better than one, ask other people—including nonscientists—to read your application.
Return to Does It Look Good? in Master the Application in Part 3.
Strategy for NIH Funding
Master the Application
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Part 3. Write Your Application
Table of Contents for the Strategy