DON’T be overly broad in hopes of not tying yourself down to a particular question or methodology or trying to appeal to a larger audience. If your readers don’t have a clear sense of what you plan to do, they will not be convinced that you are prepared to conduct the project.
DON’T frame your skillset in a negative light and write about your lack of credentials, i.e. “although I haven’t worked with X data software, I…” Instead, simply focus on the relevant training that you do bring to the table.
DON’T expect to hit all of the important points or have a perfect research proposal on your first draft.
DO be specific and explicit in your question(s), research methodology, and credentials.
DO make sure that your research question(s) and methodology match. If your methodology won’t enable you to answer the central question(s), then one needs to be revised.
DO highlight and speak honestly to the skillset and credentials you already possess, as well as the skills you will be working to develop and strengthen before embarking upon your research project.
DO expect to go through multiple drafts and multiple revision processes. Crafting a clear and cohesive research proposal takes time.