Step1
Decide if he or she is "the one". How will you know? Being in love and being ready to spend the rest of your life with someone are not always one and the same. If you can imagine yourself with this person in 50 years from now, you're likely ready to take the next step. Honestly, if you're reading this article, you've probably already decided to do so. Congratulations!
Step2
Decide whether this will be a surprise. Think about her in this - does she like surprises? React well to them? Most women enjoy some element of surprise in proposals, but some are very uncomfortable if they are nearly blindsided by a proposal they didn't expect. Have you discussed marriage with her before? If not, it might be best to open that dialogue before you pop the question. Whatever you decide, make sure it's the right decision for both of you. Planning a surprise proposal can be more nerve-racking, but it can also be more rewarding - and it completely depends on your situation!
Step3
Buy the ring, keeping her in mind throughout the process. There are thousands of designs out there and it's important you do your best choosing one you think she'd choose for herself (perhaps she has chosen for herself already and let you in on the secret - count your blessings if this is the case!). Does she wear elaborate, ornate jewelry and clothing? Is her personal living space intricately designed or is it more simplisticly designed? Keep her personal sense of style in mind while browsing and you can't go wrong. Well, actually you can go wrong - but she can always get it changed down the road if need be!
Step4
Ask her parents if, and only if, she's close with them. Of course, asking her parents, no matter what the situation, is likely to bring them closer to you, but be careful not to alienate her and her feelings in this situation. Asking her estranged father or mother for permission to marry her is unlikely to please her and she's your main concern. If she is close with them - go ahead and ask!
Step5
You've got a ring, an idea about what you'll do for a proposal, and possibly even her parents' permission. Next up? Decide if it will be a private event or a public affair. Does she prefer parties and family gatherings to nights spent watching movies with just you? Does she prefer being outdoors to being inside? Is she close with her family? Would she want them to be present? What is her tolerance for being the center of attention? You may both love attending basketball games, but if she wouldn't sing karaoke in a crowded bar or restaurant, it's unlikely she'll want you to propose in a public place. Think about your own comfort levels here as well - after all, this event is about you too!
Step6
Pick a date. Perhaps choosing one that is in some way special to you will best suit your idea for the proposal (anniversaries are frequently chosen), but be careful not to select a day on which something else monumental is happening in her/your lives. For example, if she's graduating from college on this day, she'll likely want to focus her energy celebrating this achievement. It can be tempting to "double up" on a day of importance, but think carefully about this before you decide it's what's best. After all, you want this day to be about the two of you deciding to be together forever.
Step7
Propose! You've planned well and now it's time to execute. Practice the event in your mind a few times and make sure you're prepared - it will make the actual event run much more smoothly.
Step8
Good luck in your future lives spent together!
Novice 
