Common English Mistakes in Grant Proposals by German Speakers

This page focuses on errors typically made by native German speakers from Germany when writing a Grant Proposal in English.

Mistake Example #1

Incorrect word order in subordinate clauses

The proposed research project aims to develop a new method for renewable energy storage, which is crucial for sustainable development. We believe that, iIf the project is funded,we believe that it will significantly contribute to the reduction of carbon emissions. The innovative approach, wthichat we have developed, allows for more efficient energy storage and retrieval. It is essential that, when the project is implemented, the environmental impact is minimizedwhen the project is implemented.

Text corrected by:
Camille, Maryland, USA

"I have reordered some of the subordinate clauses so that the language flows more naturally. "

The proposed research project aims to develop a new method for renewable energy storage, which is crucial for sustainable development. If the project is funded, we believe that it will significantly contribute to the reduction of carbon emissions. The innovative approach that we have developed allows for more efficient energy storage and retrieval. It is essential that the environmental impact is minimized when the project is implemented.

The proposed research project aims to develop a new method for renewable energy storage, which is crucial for sustainable development. We believe that, if the project is funded, it will significantly contribute to the reduction of carbon emissions. The innovative approach, which we have developed, allows for more efficient energy storage and retrieval. It is essential that, when the project is implemented, the environmental impact is minimized.

Mistake Example #2

Capitalizing all nouns (following German grammar rules)

The Pproposed Pproject aims to Ddevelop a Nnew Mmethod for the Ddetection of Ccancer Ccells using Aadvanced Iimaging Ttechniques. Our Tteam at the University of Heidelberg has conducted Ppreliminary Rresearch that indicates a Ssignificant Iimprovement in Aaccuracy and Eefficiency. We are Sseeking Ffunding to further Eexplore this Ttechnology and its Ppotential Bbenefits for the Mmedical Ccommunity.

Text corrected by:
Jennifer, Detroit, Michigan USA

"Sounds great! I just fixed some issues with capitalization."

The proposed project aims to develop a new method for the detection of cancer cells using advanced imaging techniques. Our team at the University of Heidelberg has conducted preliminary research that indicates a significant improvement in accuracy and efficiency. We are seeking funding to further explore this technology and its potential benefits for the medical community.

The Proposed Project aims to Develop a New Method for the Detection of Cancer Cells using Advanced Imaging Techniques. Our Team at the University of Heidelberg has conducted Preliminary Research that indicates a Significant Improvement in Accuracy and Efficiency. We are Seeking Funding to further Explore this Technology and its Potential Benefits for the Medical Community.

Mistake Example #3

Overuse of passive voice

The research projtectam willbe proposeda project to investigate the effectsofw renewable energy sources onaffect urban environments. It isThey believed thatimplementing solar and wind technologies can significantly improvements in air quality and energy efficiencycan be achieved through the implementation of solar and wind technologies. Theteam will share their findingswill be shared with local governments to enscourage the widespread adoption of sustainable practicesare adopted widely.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This needed some tweaking to reduce the use of passive voice."

The research team will propose a project to investigate how renewable energy sources affect urban environments. They believe that implementing solar and wind technologies can significantly improve air quality and energy efficiency. The team will share their findings with local governments to encourage the widespread adoption of sustainable practices.

The research project will be proposed to investigate the effects of renewable energy sources on urban environments. It is believed that significant improvements in air quality and energy efficiency can be achieved through the implementation of solar and wind technologies. The findings will be shared with local governments to ensure that sustainable practices are adopted widely.