The Research Proposal Is Best Thought of As

The research proposal is best thought of as:

A) a general and flexible outline of how the research problem is to be investigated.
B) "Plan A," with the expectation that "Plan B" or even "Plan C" will become necessary as the study unfolds.
C) a detailed and firm contract between the researcher and others who are involved in the research project (participants, supervisors, funding agencies, etc.)
D) a document that is written for others (internal review boards, funding agencies) and is of little value to the researcher.