Filling in Forms
Most funders have application forms though this is not always the case. Unfortunately they are all different and often use different language for the same things. If you wonder what something means you can always look in the Jargon Buster to see if that helps However, having a form to fill can make it easy to provide the information that they want. So here are a few tips for completing them.
Read the guidance notes
Most funders provide guidance notes for their forms. This will set out the sort of information they want in each section. Read the guidance carefully before you start completing the form to make sure you understand what is required.
Write a draft
Start by writing a draft copy even if this means copying the form to complete it. These days many of the forms are available online which makes this process much easier.
Answer the questions
Answer the questions you are asked. This sounds obvious but it is surprising how often we think we have something to say and there is no place on the form to put it. If they haven't asked they probably don't want or need to know.
Be clear and concise
Remember that the funders have a lot of applications to go through so be clear and concise. Funders can be irritated by having to wade through a lot of information that they have not asked for when they are pressed for time. If the form has a question with a space for only a short answer then it probably means your answer should be short.
