What is defined as a detailed plan outlining the objectives and methodology of a research study?

The correct answer is a protocol, as it serves as a comprehensive document that specifies the objectives, methodology, and procedures of a research study. A protocol not only outlines the research design and the specific steps that will be taken to conduct the study, but it also details how participants will be recruited, how data will be collected and analyzed, and the ethical considerations that will be observed throughout the study. Essentially, the protocol is the blueprint that guides the entire research process and ensures that the study is conducted systematically and ethically.

Other options like a study proposal, while related, typically function as an initial request for approval or funding and may not have the level of detail about methodology that a protocol includes. A research narrative might describe the background and context of the research but lacks the structured methodology that a protocol provides. A consent form is crucial for ethical compliance as it informs participants about the study and obtains their agreement to participate, but it does not outline the study's objectives and methodology itself. Thus, the protocol is key in delineating the framework necessary for conducting ethical and effective research.