What is the main purpose of a proposal in technical writing?

The primary purpose of a proposal in technical writing is to suggest a plan and seek approval or funding. Proposals are designed to persuade the audience—often stakeholders, decision-makers, or investors—about the feasibility and benefits of a specific course of action or project. This involves outlining the objectives, methodology, and anticipated outcomes, alongside any required resources or budget considerations.

Proposals typically focus on presenting a clear rationale for the project, including the needs it addresses, the potential impact, and the timeline for implementation. This persuasive element is what sets proposals apart from other types of technical documents, which may focus more on analysis, reporting, or summarization. Hence, while other options may describe components of technical writing, they do not encapsulate the primary function of a proposal, which is fundamentally about advocating for a specific course of action and gaining the necessary support to move forward.