Upvote:3
In a Schengen visa application - you don't apply for a specific period, you apply for a specific itinerary and if you want single, dual or multiple entries.
Of all the Schengen documentation I have seen, it never mentions a ticket, but plenty of places mention a reservation; which makes sense as you may not be granted the visa.
Typical requirements for Schengen (tourist) visa:
Normal requirements - passport current for 6 months past your travel dates, a passport sized photo on a white background, copy of your passport, copy of your residency permit (if you are a permanent resident in the country you are applying).