Since there is a finite amount of time available before the Discovery Grant (DG) deadline (November 2, since November 1st is on a Sunday), it is important to sketch out a timeline for yourself that incorporates all of the necessary steps to complete your proposal with a minimum of personal stress. Note that I say minimum of stress — be prepared that this will be a stressful process.

By now (September 15th) you should have an idea of what your research project will entail and hopefully will have even begun fleshing out your outline. Here are some tasks to include in your timeline:

• literature search and review (to make sure that you are up-to-date)
• convert your research outline into a research proposal
• port your proposal content into the NSERC proscribed outline (more on this tomorrow)
• complete your 5 page CV attachment using the required format
• fill in the form-fillable portions of form 101 (proposal) and form 100 (cv)
• ask your colleagues to review the scientific aspects of your proposal
• do a proposal swap with a colleague submitting in the same competition
• edit, edit, edit (use a professional editor if you can *I couldn’t resist a small plug*)
• generate and input a budget
• write the plain language summary
• upload your research contributions
• assemble entire proposal package
• edit/review entire package
• get the paper signatures required by your institution (be sure to find out the internal deadline for this activity)
• fix any last minute stuff
• click submit
• enjoy a celebratory beverage of choice

You have roughly 6 weeks. Go!