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The Acknowledgements Section
By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewers: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | January 2024
Overview: The Acknowledgements
- What (exactly) is the acknowledgements section?
Who should you acknowledge?
- How to write the section
- Practical example
- Free acknowledgements template
- Key takeaways
What is the acknowledgements section?
The acknowledgements section of your thesis or dissertation is where you give thanks to the people who contributed to your project’s success. Generally speaking, this is a relatively brief, less formal section.
With the acknowledgements section, you have the opportunity to show appreciation for the guidance, support, and resources provided by others during your research journey. We’ll unpack the exact contents, order and structure of this section in this post.
Need a helping hand?
Although this is a less “academic” section, acknowledging the right people in the correct order is still important. Typically, you’ll start with the most formal (academic) support received, before moving on to other types of support.
Here’s a suggested order that you can follow when writing up your acknowledgements:
Level 1: Supervisors and academic staff
Start with those who have provided you with academic guidance, including your supervisor, advisors, and other faculty members.
Level 2: Funding bodies or sponsors
If your research was funded, acknowledging these organisations is essential. You don’t need to get into the specifics of the funding, but you should recognise the important role that this made in bringing your project to life.
Level 3: Colleagues and peers
Next you’ll want to mention those who contributed intellectually to your work, including your fellow cohort members and researchers.
Level 4: Family, friends and pets
Last but certainly not least, you should acknowledge your personal (non-academic) support system – those who have provided emotional and moral support. If Fido kept you company during those long nights hunched over the keyboard, you can also thank him here 🙂
As you can see, the order of the acknowledgements goes from the most academic to the least . Importantly, your thesis or dissertation supervisor (sometimes also called an advisor) generally comes first . This is because they are typically the person most involved in shaping your project (or at least, they should be). Plus, they’re oftentimes involved in marking your final work and so a kind word never hurts…
All that said, remember that your acknowledgements section is personal . So, feel free to adjust this order, but do pay close attention to any guidelines or rules provided by your university. If they specify a certain order or set of contents, follow their instructions to the letter.
How to write the acknowledgements section
In terms of style, try to strike a balance between conveying a formal tone and a personal touch . In practical terms, this means that you should use plain, straightforward language (this isn’t the time for heavy academic jargon), but avoid using any slang, nicknames, etc.
As a guide, you’ll typically use some of the following phrases in the acknowledgements section:
I would like to express my appreciation to… for their help with… I’m particularly grateful to… as they provided… I could not have completed this project without… as this allowed me to… Special thanks to… who did… I had the pleasure of working with… who helped me… I’d also like to recognise… who assisted me with…
In terms of positioning, the acknowledgements section is typically in the preliminary matter , most commonly after the abstract and before the table of contents. In terms of length, this section usually spans one to three paragraphs , but there’s no strict word limit (unless your university’s brief states otherwise, of course).
If you’re unsure where to place your acknowledgements or what length to make this section, it’s a good idea to have a look at past dissertations and theses from your university and/or department to get a clearer view of what the norms are.
Practical Example
Alright, let’s look at an example to give you a better idea of what this section looks like in practice.
I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Professor Smith, whose expertise and knowledge were invaluable during this research. My sincere thanks also go to the University Research Fund for their financial support. I am deeply thankful to my colleagues, John and Jane, for their insightful discussions and moral support. Lastly, I must acknowledge my family for their unwavering love and encouragement. Without your support, this project would not have been possible.
As you can see in this example, the section is short and to the point , working from formal support through to personal support. If you’re interested, you can explore a few more examples here .
To simplify the process, we’ve created a free template for the acknowledgements section. If you’re interested, you can download a copy here .
FAQs: Acknowledgements
Can i include some humour in my acknowledgements.
A touch of light humour is okay, but keep it appropriate and professional. Remember that this is still part of an academic document.
Can I acknowledge someone who provided informal or emotional support?
Yes, you can thank anyone who offered emotional support, motivation, or even informal advice that helped you during your studies. This can include friends, family members, or a mentor/coach who provided guidance outside of an academic setting.
Should I mention any challenges or difficulties I faced during my research?
While the acknowledgements section is primarily for expressing gratitude, briefly mentioning significant challenges you overcame can highlight the importance of the support you received. That said, you’ll want to keep the focus on the gratitude aspect and avoid delving too deeply into the challenges themselves.
Can I acknowledge the contribution of participants in my research?
Absolutely. If your research involved participants, especially in fields like social sciences or human studies, acknowledging their contribution is not only courteous but also an ethical practice. It shows respect for their participation and contribution to your research.
How do I acknowledge posthumous gratitude, for someone who passed away during my study period?
Acknowledging a deceased individual who played a significant role in your academic journey can be done respectfully. Mention them in the same way you would a living contributor, perhaps adding a note of remembrance.
For example, “I would like to posthumously acknowledge John McAnders for their invaluable advice and support in the early stages of this research.”.
Is there a limit to the number of people I can acknowledge?
How do i acknowledge a group or organisation.
When thanking a group or organization, mention the entity by name and, if applicable, include specific individuals within the organization who were particularly helpful.
For example, “I extend my thanks to The Speakers Foundation for their support, particularly Mr Joe Wilkins, for their guidance.”
Recap: Key Takeaways
Writing the acknowledgements section of your thesis or dissertation is an opportunity to express gratitude to everyone who helped you along the way.
Remember to:
- Acknowledge those people who significantly contributed to your research journey
- Order your thanks from formal support to personal support
- Maintain a balance between formal and personal tones
- Keep it concise
In a nutshell, use this section to reflect your appreciation in a genuinely and professionally way.
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Best Acknowledgement for Dissertation (10 Samples and Guide)
January 15, 2024
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By Mohsin Khurshid
Embark on a journey through the art of crafting heartfelt acknowledgments for your dissertation. Explore examples and a comprehensive guide on acknowledging those who made your project possible. Uncover the best practices in expressing gratitude, from family to mentors.
Table of Contents
- 1.1 Acknowledgement for Dissertation
- 1.2 Dissertation Acknowledgement Sample
- 1.3 Acknowledgement for Dissertation Paper
- 1.4 Acknowledgement Sample for Dissertation
- 1.5 Acknowledgement in Dissertation to Family
- 1.6 Acknowledgement for Masters Dissertation
- 1.7 Undergraduate Dissertation Acknowledgements
- 1.8 Dissertation Acknowledgements Funny
- 1.9 Example of Dissertation Acknowledgement to God
- 1.10 Sample Acknowledgement for Dissertation File
- 2 How to Write Acknowledgement for Dissertation:
- 3 Conclusion
Ten Best Samples of Acknowledgement for Dissertation Project
Discover diverse examples showcasing gratitude in dissertation acknowledgments. Explore samples ranging from traditional expressions to unique acknowledgments for family, masters, and even humorous takes. Find inspiration for your own heartfelt acknowledgment.
Acknowledgement for Dissertation
I express my deep appreciation to my advisor for their unwavering guidance in shaping this dissertation. Their expertise and encouragement were vital throughout the research journey. Gratitude extends to my family, whose unwavering support made this academic endeavor possible.
I also acknowledge the contributions of colleagues and friends, creating a collaborative atmosphere that enriched my work. This acknowledgment is a heartfelt tribute to those who played a pivotal role in the success of this dissertation.
Dissertation Acknowledgement Sample
My sincere gratitude goes to all who contributed to this dissertation. Special thanks to my advisor, whose mentorship was invaluable. The support from family, friends, and colleagues created an uplifting environment. This acknowledgment is a token of appreciation to those who stood by me.
Each contributor, whether big or small, has left an indelible mark on this academic journey, and for that, I am truly thankful.
Acknowledgement for Dissertation Paper
In expressing gratitude for this dissertation, my heartfelt thanks go to my advisor for their continuous support and guidance. The collaborative efforts of colleagues and friends added depth to the research. Special acknowledgment is due to family, whose unwavering support sustained me.
This dissertation acknowledgment is a tribute to the combined efforts that made this academic endeavor possible.
Acknowledgement Sample for Dissertation
This acknowledgment is a sincere expression of gratitude to my advisor, mentors, and peers who contributed significantly to the completion of this dissertation. Their unwavering support, valuable insights, and encouragement have been pivotal in shaping the project.
I extend special thanks to [Advisor’s Name] for their guidance and patience, which made this journey a rewarding experience. This acknowledgment is a token of appreciation for the collaborative effort that made this dissertation possible.
Acknowledgement in Dissertation to Family
In the completion of this dissertation, my family has been a pillar of support and encouragement. Their unwavering belief in my capabilities and understanding during challenging times were instrumental. This acknowledgment extends heartfelt thanks to [Family Members’ Names] for their constant encouragement and unwavering support. Their role in this academic endeavor goes beyond words, and I am deeply grateful for their presence throughout this journey.
Acknowledgement for Masters Dissertation
Completing this master’s dissertation wouldn’t have been possible without the support and guidance of [Advisor’s Name]. Their mentorship and expertise played a crucial role in shaping this academic work.
I also extend my thanks to [Mention Other Contributors] for their contributions. This acknowledgment is a reflection of the collaborative effort that went into the successful completion of this master’s dissertation.
Undergraduate Dissertation Acknowledgements
Completing my undergraduate dissertation was a journey marked by invaluable support from various corners. I express my deep gratitude to my advisor for their guidance and patience throughout the process. Thanks are also due to [Mention Other Contributors], whose insights enriched my research.
The support from friends and family played a crucial role in navigating the challenges. This acknowledgment is a tribute to the collective effort that made my undergraduate dissertation a reality.
Dissertation Acknowledgements Funny
Embarking on the serious task of dissertation writing, a touch of humor lightens the load. Special thanks to my caffeine companion, coffee, for being a constant ally during those late-night writing sessions. Gratitude to my computer for not crashing during critical moments.
Humorous acknowledgment goes to [Include Something Funny], who brought laughter to the stressful times. This funny dissertation acknowledgment is a lighthearted nod to the quirks and challenges that made the academic journey memorable.
Example of Dissertation Acknowledgement to God
In completing this dissertation, I humbly acknowledge the divine guidance of God. My gratitude extends to the Almighty for providing strength, wisdom, and inspiration throughout this academic journey.
The acknowledgment to God is a heartfelt expression of faith, recognizing the unseen hand that guided me in moments of doubt and challenge. This dissertation stands as a testament to the divine support that made the impossible possible.
Sample Acknowledgement for Dissertation File
As I present this dissertation file, I express my sincere appreciation to all who contributed to its creation. Special thanks to my advisor and mentors for their guidance. This acknowledgment extends to family, friends, and colleagues whose support shaped this document. The acknowledgment for the dissertation file is a recognition of the collaborative effort that turned ideas into written words.
It’s a token of gratitude to those who played a role, big or small, in bringing this document to completion.
How to Write Acknowledgement for Dissertation:
Crafting an effective dissertation acknowledgment involves thoughtful consideration of those who contributed to your academic journey. Begin with a genuine expression of gratitude to those who played significant roles:
1. Primary Advisor:
Start with your primary advisor. Acknowledge their guidance, support, and mentorship.
2. Thesis Committee:
Extend gratitude to other committee members . Recognize their valuable insights and contributions.
3. Academic Mentors:
Acknowledge mentors, professors, or colleagues who provided guidance and support.
4. Fellow Students:
Include fellow students for their camaraderie and shared academic experiences.
5. Family and Friends:
Express appreciation for the unwavering support of family and friends. Acknowledge their understanding and encouragement.
6. Institutions or Funding Sources:
If applicable, acknowledge any institutions, organizations, or funding sources that supported your research.
7. Colleagues or Collaborators:
Recognize any collaborators or colleagues who contributed to the project.
8. Professional Contacts:
If relevant, include professionals in the field who provided assistance or insights.
When structuring your acknowledgment, consider starting with the most influential contributors, such as your primary advisor and committee members. Progress to those who played supporting roles, ensuring that each acknowledgment is sincere and specific. Use warm and appreciative language, keeping the acknowledgment concise and focused on those directly related to the dissertation.
In crafting your dissertation acknowledgments, draw inspiration from these examples. Express gratitude thoughtfully to create a meaningful acknowledgment section that reflects the collaborative spirit of your academic journey.
Acknowledgement for PhD Thesis (5 Samples and Guide)
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Acknowledgements For Thesis Examples: Just Copy & Edit!
Writing acknowledgements for your thesis is an opportunity to express gratitude to those who have supported your academic journey.
This section, often overlooked, is where you can personally thank everyone from advisors and peers to family members who’ve provided both professional and emotional support.
This article provides structured examples and essential tips to help you craft meaningful acknowledgements, ensuring you appropriately recognise the contributions of all who aided your research and writing process.
How To Write Thesis Acknowledgements
What is an acknowledgement.
What is a thesis acknowledgement, and why do people write them?
The acknowledgement section of your thesis or dissertation is an integral part of academic tradition. Here, you have the unique opportunity to thank those who have significantly contributed to your research project.
This section typically appears right after the abstract and before the table of contents in your thesis , placing it prominently at the beginning of your document.
In a thesis acknowledgement , you extend your sincere thanks to everyone who played an important role in your academic journey. These could include you:
- Family members
- Funders, or
- Supervisor.
Writing this section allows you to reflect on the collaborative nature of academic work and ensures that everyone who contributed feels appreciated.
Whether it’s the direct help from your research team or the moral support from loved ones, acknowledging these contributions shows your gratitude and recognises their importance in your successful completion of the thesis.
How To Write Acknowledgement Section For Thesis Or Dissertation?
Writing the acknowledgement section in your thesis or dissertation can feel like a breath of fresh air after the rigorous academic writing you’ve been steeped in.
Here’s a step-by-step approach that ensures you acknowledge all who contributed.
Step One: Start with Professional Acknowledgements
Your first move should be to thank your supervisor or dissertation advisor. This person likely had the most direct impact on your research and might also be involved in evaluating your thesis.
Mention any other academic staff who supported you. These could be anyone really, but usually include:
- librarians,
- lab technicians, or
Step Two: Acknowledge Academic Peers and Collaborators
Next, consider your peers, fellow researchers, or any collaborative partners.
If someone from your research team or another student contributed significantly, mention them by name and describe their input.
A typical line could be, “I like to acknowledge John Smith for his insightful contributions to the data analysis phase of this project.”
Step Three: Mention Funding Sources and Research Participants
If your research was funded by a grant or scholarship, acknowledging these sources is crucial.
You don’t need to delve into the specifics of the financials but do mention the organisation and how it supported your work.
If your project involved participants who contributed data or other valuable information, they should also be recognised here.
Step Four: Include Personal Acknowledgements
After the more formal citations, you can get a bit more personal. Thank friends and family who offered emotional support or even practical help, like proofreading drafts of your paper.
If you feel it’s fitting, you can also thank those who provided less tangible forms of support, such as inspiration or encouragement during challenging times.
Here, a more informal tone is acceptable. You might say, “I am immensely grateful to my family for their unwavering belief in my abilities and endless patience.”
Step Five: Consider Any Unusual Helpers
In some cases, people include acknowledgements of their pets for companionship or even places that offered a conducive environment for writing.
This should be brief but can add a charming touch to your acknowledgements, reflecting your personality.
Step Six: Review for Order and Tone
Revisit the order of your acknowledgements after drafting them.
The typical hierarchy goes from the most formal to the least, but your personal style and the nature of your project might influence this.
Ensure the tone remains respectful and professional but also warm where appropriate.
Step Seven: Conform to Your University’s Guidelines
Before finalising, check your university’s guidelines for the thesis format. Some institutions have specific requirements for the acknowledgements section concerning its placement or maximum length.
This step ensures your thesis complies with all formal requirements and respects academic protocols.
Step Eight: Proofread and Edit
Finally, proofread your acknowledgements carefully. Errors here, although less critical than in your main academic text, can still distract or give a poor impression.
You might ask a friend or family member to read through this section—they might remind you of someone you’ve overlooked!
The acknowledgement section, while less formal, is a significant part of your thesis. It not only allows you to thank those who supported you but also shows your ability to appreciate and recognise the contributions of others.
It’s your opportunity to reflect on the collaborative efforts that have shaped your academic endeavour.
Acknowledgements For Thesis Example
If you want something that you can use right away, here’s a template for writing a thesis acknowledgement.
This template encapsulates all the steps and recommendations you might need to craft a heartfelt and professional section in your dissertation:
Acknowledgements
I would like to express my deepest gratitude to my supervisor, [SUPERVISOR NAME], for her unwavering guidance and expert advice throughout the course of this research. Her insights and dedication have been pivotal to the success of this project.
I am also grateful to the members of the faculty, [FACULTY MEMBER NAME] and [FACULTY MEMBER NAME], whose expertise in my area of study greatly enriched my work. My thanks extend as well to the library staff at [UNIVERSITY NAME] and the laboratory technicians, especially [NAME], for their invaluable assistance.
Special thanks are due to my colleagues and fellow researchers, particularly [NAME] and [NAME], for their collaboration and the critical role they played in data collection and analysis. Their perspectives and rigor helped shape many of the project’s most crucial phases.
I acknowledge the financial support I received from [NAME OF GRANT OR SCHOLARSHIP], which was essential in facilitating my research. I am also thankful to all the participants who willingly shared their experiences and data, contributing immeasurably to the findings of this study.
On a more personal note, I would also like to thank my family for their love and encouragement. To my parents, [NAME(S)], thank you for your endless patience and support. My siblings, [NAME(S)], provided not just relief from the stresses of academic life, but also eagerly participated in brainstorming sessions. I am immensely grateful for every moment of comfort and motivation that they provided.
I would like to thank my dog, [NAME] who was always by my side during those long nights of writing and revising. His presence brought a sense of calm and companionship that was more helpful than he might realise.
As I conclude this section, I reflect on the journey that was made easier through the support and encouragement from each individual mentioned, and many unmentioned. Each of you played an important role in making not just this thesis, but my entire educational experience at [UNIVERSITY NAME] both possible and memorable.
This template follows a structured yet personal approach, allowing for the expression of sincere gratitude while adhering to academic norms.
It’s important to adapt this template to fit the specifics of your situation, the contributions of each individual you wish to thank, and any guidelines provided by your university.
Remember, this section not only recognises the support you’ve received but also reflects your appreciation for the collaborative effort involved in your academic achievements.
Thesis Acknowledgements Examples Explored
In crafting your thesis acknowledgements, you celebrate the collaborative spirit of your academic journey.
This guide ensures that you eloquently express gratitude to those who’ve shaped your scholarly pursuits—from mentors and colleagues to family and friends.
By following these structured steps and adapting them to your personal and institutional requirements, you create an acknowledgements section that not only meets formal standards but also reflects your heartfelt appreciation for the support you’ve received.
Dr Andrew Stapleton has a Masters and PhD in Chemistry from the UK and Australia. He has many years of research experience and has worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Associate at a number of Universities. Although having secured funding for his own research, he left academia to help others with his YouTube channel all about the inner workings of academia and how to make it work for you.
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