> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://ismms-gs.gitbook.io/graduate-student-handbook/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://ismms-gs.gitbook.io/graduate-student-handbook/chapter-1-1/phd-in-biomedical-sciences-and-neuroscience/thesis-proposal/general-considerations.md).

# General Considerations

The Thesis Proposal consists of the presentation, written and oral, of a research proposal that is based on the thesis work already begun by the candidate. For additional detailed instructions, refer to the [Thesis Proposal webpage](https://gradschool.mssm.edu/phd-thesis-proposal-exam/). 

The thesis proposal should:

* Be based on the student's own work, not that of the research mentor
* Allow the student to organize his/her/their thoughts and plans and place them in perspective 
* Allow the research mentor and the student's Advisory Committee to assess the level of scientific sophistication of the student 
* Provide both the student and the Committee a measure against which to determine subsequent progress. 

The Committee should evaluate the student’s ability to:  

* evaluate and synthesize relevant literature  
* articulate and elaborate on the aims 
* show and evaluate preliminary data 
* discuss experimental design as it applies to work planned.