7. Takeaway Message

This last question is one we could have asked first, because it is the most important, namely what is the takeaway message from your project that you hope to impart on your target audiences? Many proposal writers struggle to identify this up front, which is why we are asking it last, after you have had a chance to think through the other pieces of your project. This will be important to emphasize in your proposal as well, so your reviewers have a clear understanding of your broader impact project's goals.

Examples
A 3D model of a protein

Take away message...

More bacteria are helpful than harmful.

My science is relevant to this audience because...

Members of my audience often believe that all bacteria are the same everywhere and are harmful. They do not fully understand species diversity, what influences this diversity, and the important roles bacteria play in the ocean environment. Without these microorganisms, carbon would be trapped in dead organisms and carbon and other nutrients would not be available to support life on Earth.