Writing research proposal in educational setting is a very complex process involving variety of elements. Consequently, analyzing the complex elements from introduction to data analysis sections in order to yield convinced research proposal writing through reviewing reputable journal articles is worth-contributing. The objectives of this research are to improve students' ability in generating a research topic from reputable journal articles, developing thesis proposal draft, and writing comprehensive thesis proposal. A classroom action research administered at English Department University of Muhammadiyah Gresik Indonesia is adopted. The results reveal that the implementation of team-based discovery learning may improve students' ability in generating a research topic, developing research proposal draft and writing comprehensive research proposal. Several suggestions are addressed. First, although the syntax of the team based discovery learning is quite similar to the remaining strategies but it will not work more optimally if it is not followed by relevant sets of guiding questions reflecting the detailed content of each reputable journal article in each meeting. Second, learning innovations activities through intensive writing practices and consultations should be taken into account to foster the steps of discovery learning in group discussion process. Finally, the results of commonalities of strategies may be used as a reference to enhance students' ability in writing comprehensive research proposal.