1. What is the most common mistake grant writers make?

It’s submitting a broad and often unrealistic proposal. Ask an expert from your industry—a teacher, or a colleague—to evaluate your objectives and budget. You should always be able to justify the money you will be spending and how the activities will contribute to a goal. The goal must be achievable and concrete.
Other common errors are laborious and overconvoluted text. The two are often related. If your claims are too broad, then your writing will also tend to be too general and abstract.

2. How do I prove that I have the experience to handle the job?

First of all, research on the topic. Your preliminary data will show that you are well informed and that there is a basis for your claims. If you can’t gather data, then approach small companies that won’t require pilot studies. This will let you get the information you need to apply for a larger grant from another institution.

3. How do I distinguish my role from my mentor’s?

While it’s important to credit your mentor, you should also not be overshadowed by him. Generate new and independent research and show that you are well versed in new strategies. Also while explaining what your mentor has achieved in a particular field, show that you are going to take your research to yet uncharted territory.

4. How do I set a realistic budget?

Find out from those who have done similar work how much a particular experiment or activity will cost. Allot a little for unforeseen delays or obstacles but don’t pad too much.