Do British universities expect the research PhD applicant to know research methods before they write application proposal? Do British universities expect the research PhD applicant to know research methods before they write application proposal?

I studied research methods in the masters but it has been sometime now. Do I have to revisit research methods or can I present the proposal as if I have not studied research methods before?
British universities have recently begun to adopt the MRes (Master's of/by Research) as the preferred pathway for new PhD candidates who may not have a full set of research skills.

This typically involves some taught causes, as well as hand-holding through some preliminary research which may then form the basis of your PhD.

It offers you a couple of advantages: it adds a qualification that you'll have earnt after one year, so  you'll get early rewards. And you can decide after a year whether academic research is for you; and whether or not you can work with that department. If so, you've made progress in your research already. If not, then you can leave amicably with a Master's degree and a new network of academic contacts.

It offers the university an advantage too: it gives an additional point at which the candidate's abilities can be assessed.