Many  questions have a character limit to them. If there is a limit, it will be noted next to the question in the IRB Application.

The intent is to ensure that clear yet concise information is included in the IRB Application. The following tips should help you use the space you have effectively:

• Do not include citations or references in the Application
• Definitions are generally not needed on the IRB application, especially if included on the approved Dissertation Research Plan (DRP).
• Do not copy and paste from the DRP into the IRB application. Often this does not work properly.
• Be certain to include details as it relates to study procedures and participant interactions. Often researchers give too much detail to research design and not enough on the study details. The point of the IRB Application is to detail the research activities as they related to research participants.
• If you need additional space, note that there is a question at the end of the application to provide additional information and documentation.

Remember that completing a successful IRB Application takes time to ensure that you've communicated your study procedures and activities effectively. We recommend that you set aside an appropriate amount of time to complete the IRB Application and do not expect to fill it out in an hour. You should spell check your responses using the spellcheck icon next to each question and ensure that it is free of significant grammatical errors.

You might find it helpful to have a friend or family member unfamiliar with the details of your research review your IRB Application. Often researchers become so familiar with the study in their own mind that it becomes difficult to see missing details. You are able to create a pdf of your application to assist with this by clicking the 'More' button at the bottom of the IRB form and selecting 'View as PDF' from the dropdown list.