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Crafting the perfect thesis acknowledgement: tips and examples.

Crafting the Perfect Thesis Acknowledgement: Tips and Examples

Crafting the perfect thesis acknowledgement is a respectful and important part of completing your academic thesis. It provides an opportunity to express gratitude to those who have supported you throughout your research journey. This article aims to guide you through the essential elements of thesis acknowledgements and offer practical examples to help you write a sincere and structured acknowledgement section.

Key Takeaways

  • Understanding the purpose of acknowledgements in a thesis is crucial; they recognize the support and contributions of individuals and organizations.
  • A well-structured acknowledgement should be genuine, concise, and specific, mentioning each contributor by name and the nature of their assistance.
  • Providing examples from various categories such as mentors, family, classmates, and funding support can serve as a template for crafting personalized acknowledgements.

Essential Elements of Thesis Acknowledgements

Understanding the purpose.

The acknowledgement section of your thesis is not merely a formality; it is a professional tribute to the individuals and entities that have supported your academic journey . It serves as a genuine expression of gratitude , reflecting the assistance and encouragement you've received. When crafting this section, consider the purpose of each acknowledgment, ensuring that your thanks are directed appropriately and thoughtfully.

To effectively recognize the contributions of others, you may want to:

  • Identify key individuals such as advisors, mentors, and family who have provided substantial support.
  • Consider the roles of classmates, research participants, and institutional entities in your work.
  • Acknowledge any financial support or technical assistance that was crucial to your research.

Remember, the acknowledgements section is yours to personalize . While there are formalities to observe, the essence lies in providing a sincere and specific account of the support you've received. This is your opportunity to convey appreciation in a meaningful way, setting the tone for the professional and academic relationships you've built during your thesis endeavor.

Structuring Your Acknowledgement

When you begin to structure your acknowledgement, start with a courteous introduction, expressing your sincere gratitude. Identify each contributor by name , and succinctly state how they supported your thesis journey. It's important to maintain a balance between brevity and meaningfulness, ensuring that each acknowledgment is both concise and heartfelt.

Consider the following structure for your acknowledgement:

  • Formal address or opening
  • Thanks to academic advisors and faculty
  • Acknowledgement of funding sources
  • Gratitude towards research participants
  • Appreciation for family and friends
  • Mention of technical and editorial assistance
  • Closing remarks

Remember to review the Thesis / Dissertation Formatting Manual (2024) for specific guidelines on citing previously published material and obtaining necessary permissions. The structure of your acknowledgement should reflect the unique contributions to your work, as outlined in the ' Acknowledgement for Thesis | Definition & Sample - BachelorPrint'. Lastly, ensure that your acknowledgement aligns with the general recommendations provided in '4. Writing up your Research: Thesis Formatting (MS Word)', which includes a title page, abstract, and table of contents.

Providing Genuine Thanks

In crafting your thesis acknowledgement, the essence of genuine gratitude cannot be overstated. Express your thanks in a personal and meaningful way , ensuring that each contributor feels valued for their unique support . Reflect on the specific ways individuals or organizations have aided your journey, whether through intellectual guidance, emotional support, or logistical assistance.

  • Begin with a heartfelt opening that sets the tone of gratitude.
  • Mention each contributor by name, highlighting their specific input.
  • Conclude with a warm closing that encapsulates your overall appreciation.

Remember, an acknowledgement is more than a mere formality; it's a reflection of your academic integrity and personal character. By being sincere and specific , you honor the collective effort that has shaped your scholarly work.

Reviewing and Finalizing Your Acknowledgement

Once you have expressed your gratitude and acknowledged all the significant contributors to your thesis, it's crucial to review and finalize your acknowledgement. Ensure that your acknowledgement reflects sincerity and professionalism by meticulously checking for any errors or omissions. Here are some steps to consider:

  • Reread your acknowledgement to verify that all names are correctly spelled and titles are accurate.
  • Reflect on the contributions of each individual or entity, making sure you haven't missed anyone who played a pivotal role in your thesis journey .
  • Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain an outside perspective on the tone and content of your acknowledgement.
  • Revise your acknowledgement for clarity, conciseness, and flow, ensuring it reads well and conveys your genuine appreciation.

Remember, the acknowledgement is not just a courtesy, but a meaningful part of your thesis that showcases your professional relationships and gratitude. Before you consider this section complete, take a moment to restate the significance of each contribution, mirroring the care you've invested in your research.

Practical Examples of Thesis Acknowledgements

Acknowledgement for course instructor.

When crafting your thesis acknowledgement, it's essential to express gratitude to those who have played a pivotal role in your academic journey , including your course instructor. Begin with a heartfelt thank you , acknowledging the specific contributions of your instructor. For instance, you might appreciate their insightful lectures , constructive feedback, or the encouragement they provided that spurred your intellectual growth.

Remember to keep your language genuine and concise . A bulleted list can help you structure your thanks effectively:

  • Thank your instructor for their dedication to your learning.
  • Mention the ways they have enriched your understanding of the subject.
  • Acknowledge any personal encouragement or academic advice they have offered.

By following these steps, you ensure that your acknowledgement resonates with sincerity and adequately reflects the importance of your instructor's support.

Acknowledgement for the Mentor

The mentorship you receive during your thesis journey is pivotal to your academic and personal growth. Your mentor's expertise and guidance are the bedrock of your research success. It is essential to acknowledge their contribution with gratitude and respect. Here are some points you might consider including in your acknowledgement for your mentor:

  • Expressing appreciation for their insightful feedback and continuous support.
  • Recognizing the mentor's role in shaping your academic path and research skills.
  • Mentioning specific instances where their guidance was particularly influential.
  • Acknowledging the time and effort they invested in your success.

Remember, a heartfelt and personalized acknowledgement will always resonate more than a generic thank you. Take the time to reflect on the unique aspects of your mentorship experience when crafting this section of your thesis.

Acknowledgement for Family Support

When it comes to acknowledging family support in your thesis, it's essential to convey your gratitude in a manner that reflects the personal and emotional support you've received. Your family's unwavering belief in your academic journey deserves a special mention. They've provided a foundation of encouragement and understanding, often without the expectation of anything in return.

Expressing thanks to your family can be structured in a simple list to ensure each member's contribution is recognized:

  • To my parents, for their wisdom and sacrifices.
  • To my siblings, for their companionship and humor during stressful times.
  • To my partner, for patience and love that gave me strength.

Remember, a heartfelt acknowledgment resonates more than a mere listing of names. It's about capturing the essence of their support, which has been as crucial as any academic guidance. As one source puts it, special thanks are due to family for their patience and understanding during the long hours spent in academic pursuit. In finalizing this section, review it to ensure it genuinely reflects your appreciation and the unique role your family has played in your academic success.

Acknowledgement for Classmates

Your journey through the rigorous academic challenge of thesis writing is often shared with a group of individuals who are in the same boat - your classmates. Their camaraderie and mutual support play a pivotal role in your success . It is essential to acknowledge their contribution, as they provide not just academic support, but also a sense of community during this intense period.

Collaborative efforts with classmates can take various forms, from group study sessions to peer reviews of your work. Here are some ways to express gratitude to your classmates in your thesis acknowledgement:

  • Thank them for specific instances of support, such as providing feedback on a draft or sharing resources.
  • Acknowledge the collective spirit that helped you stay motivated and focused.
  • Mention any classmate who went above and beyond to assist you in your research or writing process.

Remember, a heartfelt acknowledgement can strengthen your bonds and show appreciation for the shared academic journey.

Acknowledgement for Research Participants

When acknowledging research participants , it's essential to express your sincere appreciation for their time and insights. These individuals have played a pivotal role in the advancement of your study, offering valuable data that has likely shaped the outcome of your research. Their willingness to share personal experiences and information is the cornerstone of your project's success.

Begin by thanking them collectively, and if appropriate, mention any groups or communities specifically. It's important to respect the privacy and confidentiality agreements made with participants, so avoid disclosing sensitive information. Here's a simple structure you can follow:

  • Express gratitude for their participation
  • Highlight the importance of their contributions
  • Acknowledge the impact of their data on your research
  • Reiterate your commitment to confidentiality and ethical standards

Remember, without their involvement, the richness of your research would be diminished. As you draft this section, reflect on the tools and resources that aided you in defining your thesis purpose and maintaining research focus , such as worksheets, templates, and action plans. These tools not only facilitate organization but also underscore the significance of each participant's contribution.

Acknowledgement for Funding Support

When acknowledging funding support , it's crucial to express gratitude in a manner that reflects the significance of the financial contribution to your research. Your benefactors have provided more than just funds; they have invested in your academic potential.

  • Begin by naming the specific funding bodies , grants, or scholarships that supported your work. For example, "This research was supported by the XYZ Scholarship Fund."
  • Mention how the funding has directly impacted your research, such as enabling fieldwork, purchasing equipment, or allowing for full-time dedication to the study.
  • If applicable, outline the broader impact of the funding, such as contributing to the advancement of knowledge in your field or supporting future scholars.

Remember to review the requirements or guidelines provided by your funding bodies as some may have specific stipulations on how their support should be acknowledged. A sincere and thoughtful acknowledgement not only shows your appreciation but also demonstrates your professionalism and attention to detail.

Acknowledgement for Technical Assistance

When acknowledging technical assistance in your thesis, it's important to highlight the specific contributions made by individuals or groups that provided technical support . Your acknowledgement should reflect the significance of their expertise to your research. For instance:

  • Mr. Smith's proficiency with analytical tools greatly facilitated the research process.
  • The guidance in navigating complex data sets was crucial.
  • The dedication to ensuring the accuracy and rigor of findings was invaluable.

Expressing gratitude for technical assistance not only shows your appreciation but also underscores the collaborative nature of academic research. Remember to be specific about the type of assistance received and the impact it had on your work. This can range from data analysis to specialized equipment handling or software troubleshooting.

Incorporate these tips for effective time management to overcome procrastination and make progress on your thesis. Break tasks into smaller chunks, eliminate distractions, set goals, take breaks, and seek support when you're dealing with technical challenges. This proactive approach will help you maintain momentum and express genuine thanks in your acknowledgement.

Acknowledgement for Institutional Support

When it comes to acknowledging institutional support in your thesis, it's important to recognize the broader infrastructure that has facilitated your research. Your institution is not just a backdrop for your academic journey; it is a pivotal enabler of your scholarly pursuits. Expressing gratitude towards your university or college demonstrates an awareness of the collective effort that underpins individual success.

Begin by thanking the institution for specific resources or opportunities provided, such as access to libraries, laboratories, or funding programs. For instance:

  • ABC University for the use of their state-of-the-art laboratories
  • XYZ College for granting special research fellowships
  • The 123 Institute for providing critical data sets

Remember to mention any significant contributions that have directly impacted the success of your research. This acknowledgment seeks to recognize the invaluable support provided by the institution, which often includes administrative staff, facilities management, and academic departments . It's a way to show gratitude and appreciation for the collective support that has been instrumental in reaching this pivotal point in your academic career.

Acknowledgement for Editorial Assistance

When it comes to editorial assistance, your acknowledgement should reflect the meticulous effort and valuable contributions of those who helped refine your thesis. Express your gratitude for their attention to detail and the significant improvement they brought to the quality of your work. Editorial experts not only enhance the clarity and coherence of your manuscript but also ensure adherence to the highest standards of academic integrity .

Remember to mention specific instances where their insights were particularly beneficial. For example:

  • Their suggestions on rephrasing complex sentences
  • Corrections made to ensure accurate referencing
  • Guidance on maintaining a consistent tone throughout the document

By acknowledging the editorial support you received, you highlight the collaborative nature of academic work and the importance of clear communication. It's a gesture that underscores the value of their role in the journey of your scholarly publication .

Acknowledgement of Industry Collaboration

When acknowledging industry collaboration in your thesis, it's important to highlight the practical impact of such partnerships. Your innovative ideas and constructive feedback have enhanced the overall quality of our work. Thank you for being an invaluable partner in this endeavor. The collaboration with industry experts not only brings a wealth of knowledge but also ensures that your research remains relevant and applicable in a real-world context .

In expressing gratitude, consider the following points:

  • The specific contributions and resources provided by the industry partner.
  • The ways in which the collaboration has shaped your research.
  • Any challenges that were overcome through the partnership.

Remember, a well-crafted acknowledgement can serve as a testament to the symbiotic relationship between academia and industry. It's a gesture of appreciation that underscores the mutual benefits of such collaborations. Ensure that your thanks are not just a formality, but a genuine recognition of the value added to your research.

Embarking on the journey of thesis writing can be daunting, but you don't have to do it alone. Our comprehensive Thesis Action Plan is designed to guide you through every step, ensuring a stress-free and successful completion. From practical examples of thesis acknowledgements to step-by-step instructions, we've got you covered. Don't let anxiety and sleepless nights take over. Visit our website now to claim your special offer and start your path to thesis mastery with confidence!

In crafting the perfect thesis acknowledgement, we must remember that it is more than a mere formality; it is a heartfelt expression of gratitude towards those who have contributed to our academic journey. The acknowledgement section is a unique space within our thesis to extend our sincerest thanks to mentors, family, peers, and institutions that have provided support, guidance, and resources. By following the tips and examples provided in this article, students can ensure that their acknowledgements are not only appropriately structured and sincere but also reflective of the collaborative spirit inherent in academic pursuits. As we conclude, let us acknowledge that the success of a thesis is not a solo achievement but the culmination of a collective effort, and it is this spirit of collaboration and support that the acknowledgement section should encapsulate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of a thesis acknowledgement.

The purpose of a thesis acknowledgement is to express gratitude to individuals, groups, or institutions that have contributed to the completion of your thesis. It's an opportunity to thank those who provided support, guidance, resources, or inspiration throughout your research and writing process.

How should I structure my thesis acknowledgement?

Your thesis acknowledgement should be structured with a polite opening, followed by specific thanks to each contributor. Start with those most closely associated with your research, such as advisors and committee members, then acknowledge other supporters such as peers, family, and funding bodies. Keep it concise and sincere.

Can I include personal acknowledgements in my thesis?

Yes, it is common to include personal acknowledgements in your thesis. You can express gratitude to family members, friends, or anyone else who provided personal support or encouragement. However, maintain a professional tone and keep the focus on how they contributed to your thesis journey.

A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Write a Master's Thesis that Stands Out

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Academia Insider

How to write acknowledgements in a thesis or dissertation

Navigating the intricate process of writing a thesis or dissertation can be challenging.

One crucial, yet often overlooked part is the thesis acknowledgement. It is also the only bit of my thesis that anyone really reads.

This section allows you to express gratitude to those who contributed to your academic journey. From supervisors and professors to family and friends, the acknowledgement section provides a platform to thank all who played a part in your work.

Whether you’re unsure about how to begin or looking for the best ways to acknowledge your mentors, this blog will provide valuable insights and practical advice to help you create an impactful thesis acknowledgement.

What is your thesis acknowledgement?

A thesis acknowledgement is a section in your thesis where you express gratitude to those who helped and supported you during your research and writing process.

thesis acknowledgement family and friends

It typically comprises two parts: professional and personal acknowledgements.
  • Professional acknowledgements include your supervisor, colleagues, other academics, funding bodies, or institutions that significantly contributed to your work.
  • Personal acknowledgements encompass your family and friends who provided emotional support or helped with editing and proofreading.

The acknowledgements section is usually more informal than the rest of your thesis , and it’s acceptable to write in the first person. It’s typically placed at the beginning of your thesis, either before the abstract or the table of contents.

Although the length may vary, it usually doesn’t exceed one page. It’s crucial to plan ahead, listing everyone you wish to thank and consider their specific contribution to your work.

Who to thank in your acknowledgements

In your acknowledgements, you should first thank the members of academia who contributed to your research, including:

  • funding bodies,
  • supervisors,
  • professors,
  • proofreaders,
  • and research participants.

Mention them using their full names and titles.

If an authoritative figure in your field provided feedback, their acknowledgement adds weight to your research.

Despite the circumstances, a brief thank you to your supervisor is necessary.

Personal acknowledgements can include friends, family members, or even pets who provided inspiration or support during the writing process. Always refer to your university’s guidelines on acknowledgements.

Creating an acknowledgement can be slightly subjective, as the order and individuals to be thanked can vary greatly depending on the circumstances of the work and the author’s preferences.

However, generally, this example follows a common structure:

The order can be customized based on the importance of the roles these individuals played in the author’s journey.

Some may prefer to thank family or significant others first, while others might start with professional relationships such as advisors or collaborators.

It’s also crucial to keep in mind that the way of expressing gratitude can differ significantly between cultures and individuals.

How Long Should My Acknowledgements Be?

The length of an acknowledgement section varies depending on the individual and the nature of the project.

Some people prefer to keep their acknowledgements brief and only thank those individuals who made significant contributions to their work.

Others may choose to include a more extensive list of people, such as mentors, colleagues, and friends, who provided support and encouragement throughout the process.

In general, it is recommended to keep your acknowledgements concise and focused on those who had a direct impact on the project

. Including a heartfelt thank you to these individuals is a meaningful way to show appreciation for their efforts.

However, it is important not to get carried away and turn the acknowledgement page into a long list of names. Remember that the focus should be on quality rather than quantity, as the acknowledgement section should not overshadow the main content of the project. 

Where Should My Acknowledgements Go?

The placement of your acknowledgements can vary, but it’s typically located in the first part of your thesis.

Mine is right after the abstract and before the introduction of my PhD thesis. 

You can place it right before your dissertation abstract or before the table of contents. However, the exact positioning may depend on the guidelines and requirements provided by your university.

Always ensure to check your university’s formatting requirements to be sure you’ve chosen the correct location for your acknowledgements section. 

Thesis acknowledgement examples

Here is my PhD thesis acknowledgement.

thesis acknowledgement family and friends

Here are some sentence starters that you can use for inspiration:

1. “This thesis acknowledgement is a tribute to all the people who made my academic journey worthwhile.” 2. “I would like to thank my supervisor, whose unwavering support has been instrumental in the completion of this thesis.” 3. “In this acknowledgement section, I extend my deepest gratitude to all who have walked with me on this challenging but fulfilling journey.” 4. “Firstly, I would like to express my sincere thanks to the academic staff who provided their invaluable expertise and guidance.” 5. “My thesis would not have been possible without the endless help and support from my colleagues.” 6. “Special thanks go to my family, whose constant encouragement fueled my perseverance during the completion of this dissertation.” 7. “In the professional acknowledgements, I would like to acknowledge the significant contributions made by my research participants.” 8. “I would also like to thank the funding bodies, whose financial support made this research possible.” 9. “Through this acknowledgment, I express my heartfelt gratitude to my friends who have been my pillars of strength.” 10. “The completion of this thesis or dissertation is the culmination of efforts from various individuals whom I would like to express my sincere appreciation.” 11. “This thesis acknowledgement section is an opportunity to give thanks to those who made this journey less daunting.” 12. “I would like to express my gratitude to my editor, whose meticulous proofreading greatly improved my thesis.” 13. “Without their dedication, this thesis would not have been possible.” 14. “I express my sincere gratitude to all those whose names appear in this acknowledgement for their invaluable input.” 15. “In this acknowledgement for my thesis, I extend my appreciation to all those who have been part of this journey.”

Top tips to write acknowledgements

  • Plan Ahead : Make a list of the people you want to acknowledge and their specific contributions to your work.
  • Follow University Guidelines : Check your university’s formatting and content guidelines to ensure your acknowledgements adhere to them.
  • Use First Person : Unlike the rest of your thesis, the acknowledgements can be written in the first person.
  • Keep it Brief : The acknowledgement section should generally not exceed one page. Be concise and precise in expressing your gratitude.
  • Maintain Professional-Personal Order : Start with professional acknowledgements (e.g., supervisors, colleagues, funders) before moving on to personal ones (e.g., friends, family).
  • Be Specific : Highlight the specific contributions each person or organization made to your thesis.
  • Use Full Names and Titles : When acknowledging academic contributors, use their full names and appropriate titles.
  • Use Informal Language : Acknowledgements can be written in a more informal style, but avoid colloquial language.
  • Proofread : Ensure your acknowledgements are free of spelling and grammar errors.
  • Be Genuine and Sincere : The acknowledgements section should sincerely reflect your gratitude to the people who helped you in your academic journey.

Wrapping up – writing your acknowledgements section

As we reach the conclusion of this informative journey into the art of writing acknowledgements for a thesis or dissertation, it’s clear that this often-overlooked section carries significant emotional and professional weight.

A dissertation acknowledgements page is more than just a list of names; it’s a chance to express genuine gratitude and give due credit to all who have contributed to your academic journey. 

Remember, writing this section of your thesis isn’t an obligatory chore but a genuine opportunity to thank those who supported you.

From the tireless members of your thesis committee to the friends and family who offered emotional support, it’s a platform to acknowledge all the people who helped.

From mentors who provided expert guidance, colleagues who offered invaluable insights, to the institutions that funded your research – everyone deserves a heartfelt note of thanks.

Sample acknowledgements in a thesis often include both professional acknowledgements first, followed by personal ones, ensuring that all contributors are recognized appropriately. Always remember to use full names and titles for professional acknowledgements, and express your gratitude sincerely.

The acknowledgement page isn’t a place for long tales, jokes or anecdotes; instead, keep your acknowledgements concise, specific, and heartfelt.

As shown in the thesis acknowledgement examples, you should reflect on the people and organizations that significantly contributed to your research or writing, whether in a substantial technical manner or through support and guidance throughout the process. 

Studentship that allowed you to pursue your research, faculty who guided your studies, even friends who provided distractions when they were most needed – all these contributors deserve your thanks. Remember, it’s okay to use their first names for those who’ve been part of your personal journey, but for professional acknowledgments, full names and titles are recommended. 

As a PhD student, your acknowledgements should reflect your journey – the struggles, the triumphs, and most importantly, the people who have helped you along the way. Whether you include a list of names in alphabetical order, or you decide to group people or organizations, remember to be genuine, concise, and respectful. 

Whether it’s a thesis dedication to a mentor, expressing gratitude to your parents, thanking your friends for their love and encouragement, or even including certain political aspects that influenced your research, the acknowledgments section is yours to personalize. 

Writing a thesis or dissertation is a monumental task, and the people who support you through it are worth acknowledging. Keep this guide in mind when you write your thesis acknowledgements, and don’t forget to thank those who’ve been there for you – for in the journey of research and writing, no one truly walks alone. 

The last sentence may be a heartfelt statement, “I would like to express my gratitude to all those who walked with me throughout my research journey – your support was my strength, and this achievement is as much yours as it is mine.”

thesis acknowledgement family and friends

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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  • Acknowledgements for PhD Thesis and Dissertations – Explained
  • Doing a PhD

The Purpose of Acknowledgements

The acknowledgement section of a thesis or dissertation is where you recognise and thank those who supported you during your PhD. This can be but is not limited to individuals, institutions or organisations.

Although your acknowledgements will not be used to evaluate your work, it is still an important section of your thesis. This is because it can have a positive (or negative for that matter) influence the perception of your reader before they even reach the main body of your work.

Who Should I Acknowledge?

Acknowledgements for a PhD thesis will typically fall into one of two categories – professional or personal.

Within these categories, who you thank will ultimately be your decision. However, it’s imperative that you pay special attention to the ‘professional’ group. This is because not thanking someone who has played an important role in your studies, whether it be intentional or accidental, will more often than not be seen as a dismissal of their efforts. Not only would this be unfair if they genuinely helped you, but from a certain political aspect, it could also jeopardise any opportunities for future collaborations .

Professional Acknowledgements

This may include, but is not limited to:

  • Funding bodies/sponsorship providers
  • Supervisors
  • Research group and lab assistants
  • Research participants
  • Proofreaders

Personal Acknowledgements

  • Key family members and friends
  • Individuals who inspired you or directly influenced your academic journey
  • Anyone else who has provided personal support that you would like to mention

It should be noted that certain universities have policies which state only those who have directly supported your work, such as supervisors and professors, should be included in your acknowledgements. Therefore, we strongly recommend that you read your university guidelines before writing this section of your thesis.

How to Write Acknowledgements for PhD Thesis

When producing this section, your writing style can be more informal compared to the rest of your thesis. This includes writing in first person and using more emotive language. Although in most cases you will have complete freedom in how you write this section of your thesis, it is still highly advisable to keep it professional. As mentioned earlier, this is largely because it will be one of the first things your assessors will read, and so it will help set the tone for the rest of your work.

In terms of its structure, acknowledgements are expected to be ordered in a manner that first recognises the most formal support before moving onto the less formal support. In most cases, this follows the same order that we have outlined in the ‘Who Should I Thank’ section.

When thanking professionals, always write out their full name and provide their title. This is because although you may be on a first-name basis with them, those who read your thesis will not. By providing full names and titles, not only do you help ensure clarity, but it could also indirectly contribute to the credibility of your thesis should the individual you’re thanking be well known within your field.

If you intend to include a list of people from one institution or organisation, it is best to list their names in alphabetical order. The exception to this is when a particular individual has been of significant assistance; here, it would be advisable to list them.

How Long Should My Acknowledgements Be?

Acknowledgements vary considerably in length. Some are a single paragraph whilst some continue for up to three pages. The length of your acknowledgement page will mostly depend on the number of individuals you want to recognise.

As a general rule, try to keep your acknowledgements section to a single page. Although there are no word limits, creating a lengthy acknowledgements section dilutes the gratitude you’re trying to express, especially to those who have supported you the most.

Where Should My Acknowledgements Go?

In the vast majority of cases, your acknowledgements should appear directly after your abstract and before your table of contents.

However, we highly advise you to check your university guidelines as a few universities set out their own specific order which they will expect you to follow.

Phrases to Help You Get Started

Dissertation acknowledgements example for researchers and PhD students

We appreciate how difficult it can be to truly show how grateful you are to those who have supported you over the years, especially in words.

To help you get started, we’ve provided you with a few examples of sentences that you can complete or draw ideas from.

  • I am deeply grateful to XXX…
  • I would like to express my sincere gratitude to XXX…
  • I would like to offer my special thanks to XXX…
  • I would like to extend my sincere thanks to XXX…
  • …for their assistance at every stage of the research project.
  • …for their insightful comments and suggestions.
  • …for their contribution to XXX.
  • …for their unwavering support and belief in me.

Thesis Acknowledgement Examples

Below are three PhD thesis acknowledgment samples from which you can draw inspiration. It should be noted that the following have been extracted from theses which are freely available in the public domain. Irrespective of this, references to any individual, department or university have been removed for the sake of privacy.

First and foremost I am extremely grateful to my supervisors, Prof. XXX and Dr. XXX for their invaluable advice, continuous support, and patience during my PhD study. Their immense knowledge and plentiful experience have encouraged me in all the time of my academic research and daily life. I would also like to thank Dr. XXX and Dr. XXX for their technical support on my study. I would like to thank all the members in the XXX. It is their kind help and support that have made my study and life in the UK a wonderful time. Finally, I would like to express my gratitude to my parents, my wife and my children. Without their tremendous understanding and encouragement in the past few years, it would be impossible for me to complete my study.

I would like to thank my supervisors Dr. XXX and Dr. XXX for all their help and advice with this PhD. I would also like to thank my sisters, whom without this would have not been possible. I also appreciate all the support I received from the rest of my family. Lastly, I would like to thank the XXX for the studentship that allowed me to conduct this thesis.

I would like to thank my esteemed supervisor – Dr. XXX for his invaluable supervision, support and tutelage during the course of my PhD degree. My gratitude extends to the Faculty of XXX for the funding opportunity to undertake my studies at the Department of XXX, University of XXX. Additionally, I would like to express gratitude to Dr. XXX for her treasured support which was really influential in shaping my experiment methods and critiquing my results. I also thank Dr. XXX, Dr. XXX, Dr. XXX for their mentorship. I would like to thank my friends, lab mates, colleagues and research team – XXX, XXX, XXX, XXX for a cherished time spent together in the lab, and in social settings. My appreciation also goes out to my family and friends for their encouragement and support all through my studies.

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Dissertation acknowledgments [with examples]

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What are dissertation acknowledgements?

What to consider when writing your dissertation acknowledgments, who to thank in your dissertation acknowledgments, what (and what not) to write in your dissertation acknowledgments, good examples of dissertation acknowledgments, a final word on writing dissertation acknowledgments: have fun, frequently asked questions about dissertation acknowledgments, related articles.

While you may be the sole author of your dissertation, there are lots of people who help you through the process—from your formal dissertation advisors to the friends who may have cooked meals so that you could finish your last chapter . Dissertation acknowledgments are a chance to thank everyone who had a hand in the completion of your project.

Dissertation acknowledgments are a brief statement of your gratitude to advisors, professors, peers, family, and friends for their help and expertise.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

  • the most important things to consider when you’re writing your dissertation acknowledgments
  • who to thank in your dissertation acknowledgments
  • what (and what not) to write in your dissertation acknowledgments
  • short examples of dissertation acknowledgments

Once you’re at the stage where you’re writing your dissertation acknowledgments, you may be tempted to kick back and relax. After all, the hard part of writing the dissertation itself is over and a list of thanks should be simple to churn out.

However, the acknowledgments are an important part of your overall work and are something that most people who read your dissertation, including prospective employers, will look at.

Tip: The best dissertation acknowledgements are concise, sincere, and memorable.

Approach this part of the process, brief as it may be compared to the long haul of writing the dissertation, with the same high level of care and attention to detail. It’s an explicit and permanent statement of who made a real impact on your work and contributed to your academic success.

Plus, the people you thank are often deeply moved by being included—some even go so far as to frame the acknowledgments. Aim to make yours sincere, memorable and something that people will be touched by.

First things first: who should you include in your dissertation acknowledgments? If you’re not sure who to thank, try the brainstorming technique to generate some ideas. Consider these two approaches:

  • Make a list of everyone, both professional and personal, who was involved at any point during your work on your dissertation, and then thin down the list from there.
  • Make a list of the pivotal aspects of your process and think about who was involved and how they helped.

As you select the people and groups to include in your dissertation acknowledgments, keep in mind that it’s essential to acknowledge your supervisor and anyone else with a visible connection to your work.

It’s an unfortunate reality that not every supervisor goes above and beyond to provide feedback and guidance to the students they are supposed to supervise. However, leaving them out, even if you personally felt disappointed by their involvement or lack thereof, could be seen as a snub.

You should end up with a fairly short list of people to thank. While being mindful of professional etiquette and personal feelings, be choosy about who makes the final cut since your acknowledgments should be limited to no more than a page.

Now that you have your list of people and groups to thank, it’s time to start writing. Before your first pen or keystroke, however, check your university’s guidelines as your institution may have specific rules around what can and cannot be included.

The standard practice is to begin with the formal and then progress to the informal, so the first people to mention would be:

  • supervisors
  • committee members
  • other professional contacts

Use their full names and titles and go into brief detail about how they contributed to your work.

Once those are done, you can move on to the personal thanks, which can include friends, family, even pets. If you are so inclined, it is also considered appropriate to thank God or make mention of spiritual support.

You may also choose to inject a little humor at this point, but don’t get carried away and definitely don’t include sarcasm or critical comments of any kind, including self-critical ones. Remember that the acknowledgments precede your dissertation, so you want to be taken seriously.

A couple more basics that are essential when creating your acknowledgments:

  • Position: Acknowledgments should be placed after the title page and before the abstract.
  • Perspective: Write from the first-person perspective and speak in your own voice.

A really good way to get a sense of how to write your own dissertation acknowledgments is to read ones written by others. Notice which ones you respond particularly well to and use them as a model upon which to base your own.

Here are some good examples to help you get started:

I couldn’t have reached this goal without the help of many people in my life. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank them for their support.

First, my sincere thanks to my dissertation committee. The value of their guidance cannot be overstated. Dr. Elaine Gooding and Dr. Matthew Hunter provided much wisdom that helped me chart my course. I couldn’t have asked for a better supervisor than Dr. Fiona Moore, whose knowledge and experience guided me every step of the way.

Next, I’d like to thank my partner, Elliott. Your votes of confidence kept me going when my spirits dipped. I couldn’t have done this without you.

Last but not least, I’d like to acknowledge the emotional support provided by my family and friends. We made it to the top of the mountain! I look forward to celebrating with all of you.

This example is shorter, but still contains the key components:

Several people played a decisive role in my success and I would like to take this opportunity to thank them.

My chair, Dr. Ronald Saulk, provided invaluable support and infinite patience and I am truly grateful for all of his wisdom and guidance. I also owe the entire staff of the Wilhelm Library a debt of gratitude. From tracking down books and arranging for interlibrary loans to keeping the coffee maker in the lobby well-stocked and in good working order, they offered the practical help and kind gestures that made all the difference.

I’d also like to thank my family and God, for always being there for me.

One final piece of advice: enjoy this process. Writing a dissertation doesn’t happen every day, and the opportunity to acknowledge the important people in your life in a published format is as rare as it is wonderful.

What’s more, this part of your dissertation is unlike any other. It’s unbounded by the conventions that apply to the formal work. It’s a chance to really flex some creative muscle and let your personality shine through. So make the most of it and have fun!

In your dissertation acknowledgments, you thank everyone who has contributed to your work or supported you along the way. Who you want to thank is a very personal choice, but you should include your supervisors and anyone else with a visible connection to your work. You may also thank friends, family, and partners.

First, you need to come up with a list of people you want to thank in your dissertation acknowledgments. As a next step, begin with the formal and then progress to the informal, so the first people to mention would be supervisors, mentors, committees, and other professional contacts. Then, you can move on to the personal thanks, which can include friends, family, even pets.

Who you acknowledge in your dissertation is ultimately up to you. You should, however, thank your supervisor and anyone else with a visible connection to your work. Leaving them out, even if you personally felt disappointed by their involvement or lack thereof, could be seen as a snub. In addition, you can thank friends, partners or family.

There are many ways so you can acknowledge your dissertation supervisor. Some examples can be found in this article above. If you need more examples, you can find them here .

While acknowledgments are usually more present in academic theses, they can also be a part of research papers. In academic theses, acknowledgments are usually found at the beginning, somewhere between abstract and introduction. In research papers, acknowledgments are usually found at the end of the paper.

thesis acknowledgement family and friends

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Experiences of a London PhD student and beyond

Thesis acknowledgements: Samples and how to write your own thesis or dissertation acknowledgements

thesis acknowledgement family and friends

Writing a thesis can be tricky. That’s why I’m starting a new series covering each section of the thesis, from thesis acknowledgements all the way to conclusions. I’ll be guiding you through the whole process, from what to include in your thesis to how to write it, along with examples from defended theses to help you to write your own.

We’ll begin by covering thesis acknowledgments. The acknowledgements section appears at the start of the thesis so it is often one of the first parts that everyone tries to tackle. As this will likely be your first taste of your thesis it can often feel quite intimidating to write!

Thankfully it’s also one of the easiest parts of the thesis to complete, which may help to give you a boost for the rest.

In this post we’ll cover everything to do with thesis acknowledgements: samples, what to include and how to write them. At the end I’ll also outline a 60 minute exercise which will get you preparing a first draft of your own! I’ve also got a similar post to craft your thesis title, which you can check out here .

I’m writing this post with a PhD thesis in mind but it could work just as well if you’re looking for help including acknowledgements in your Master’s or undergraduate thesis/ dissertation.

What is the purpose of the acknowledgements section in a thesis?

The acknowledgements section of your thesis is an opportunity to reflect on the people who have supported and shaped your PhD experience.

Don’t worry, although your examiners will be interested to read your acknowledgements section, you won’t really get judged on it in your PhD viva. This section is for you to share as little, or as much, as you want about everyone involved in your PhD journey.

The acknowledgements are a very personal section of your thesis and each PhD student will have different things they want to include. For example, many people wonder: How do I thank my family in a thesis? And the acknowledgements section is the answer!

Note – You can also use a thesis dedication to thank your family. This is a separate section to your thesis acknowledgements and is entirely optional. It’s usually just a single line, just like you might find at the front of some books. Most people don’t include a separate dedication section but you can if you want to go that extra step.

What to include in your thesis acknowledgements

There are usually no formal requirements dictating what to include in your acknowledgements. However, do double check for any potential rules at your specific institution.

In general the acknowledgements are the section of your thesis where you have some creative liberty and are not bound by rigid research protocols or guidelines.

Many students choose to use the acknowledgements section to thank people (or organisations) who:

  • Introduced them to the topic
  • Helped with their PhD application
  • Funded the project
  • Supervisors
  • Technicians
  • Partners, friends or family
  • Or anyone else who made an impression along the way!

But remember, you can include whatever you want! For example in my own PhD acknowledgements, which you’ll read further down this post, I thanked the university for providing a green outdoor space for us.

Acknowledge whoever and whatever influenced your own PhD experience.

You may find it helpful to start by writing a list of everyone you wish to thank.

How do you write an acknowledgements section?

Since there are no guidelines to worry about, it is really up to you how you write your own thesis acknowledgements. You have a lot of freedom for what to include and how to write it.

However you may find the following suggested phases helpful as a starting point.

Who you want to thank…

  • “First and foremost, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to…”
  • “I must thank…”
  • “A special thanks to…”
  • “I would like to highlight two truly exceptional people from…”
  • “I want to thank…”
  • “In addition, I would like to mention”
  • “I would also like to extend my thanks to…”
  • “I want to give my deepest appreciation to…”
  • “Finally, but the most importantly, I would like to thank…”

…then, why you want to thank them

It can be nice to also include why you’re thanking these people, using phrases such as:

  • “…for the opportunity to be a part of this project”
  • “…for always being there when I needed his support, reviewing my progress constantly, and guiding me through my PhD studies”
  • “….for being a great bunch of people in and out of the lab”
  • …”for all the guidance, support and outstanding feedback”
  • “… who took their time to help teach me…”
  • “…for her unlimited support and unconditional guidance during my PhD journey”
  • “…were always there for discussions about anything that I was unsure on”
  • “…whom has offered invaluable advice that will benefit me throughout my life”
  • “…for supporting me since my undergraduate, and for the valuable discussions we had along the road”
  • “…for making the past 4 years much more enjoyable and keeping me sane throughout the whole process”

Here is a whole example from an accepted PhD thesis:

Firstly, I want to thank [supervisor’s name(s)] for giving me the opportunity to work on this project, providing valuable guidance and feedback, and challenging me to grow as a scientist.  Excerpt from Dr Wane’s thesis acknowledgements, available via this page or use this direct download link .

Some people will choose to use full names and titles for any professional acknowledgements and first names for any personal ones. Again, this is up to you.

To help illustrate the variety of thesis acknowledgement formats, we’ll shortly be coming on to some examples of acknowledgment sections from successfully defended theses.

Before then I want to cover some of the main questions relating to how to write your own thesis acknowledgements section:

How long should you spend writing your thesis acknowledgements?

My suggestion is to spend only an hour or two making a first draft. I suggest doing this well ahead of your final deadline so that you have time to come back to it. Even so, I’d certainly look to spend far less than one day’s work on it in total.

It is a “nice to have” and means a lot to a lot of people, but remember you’re really only writing this section for yourself. I probably spent about two hours writing mine in total, simply because it wasn’t a priority for me.

What order should you write your acknowledgements in?

A typical way to write your acknowledgements is to go from the most formal/academic relationships to the least.

It is normal to start with any funding bodies, then formal people like your PhD supervisors, then move through labmates, friends and family. But again, there are generally no rules!

How long should the acknowledgements section be?

You can include as much or as little as you want. My own PhD acknowledgements section was just under a page long and it consisted of 386 words or 1892 characters (without spaces).

Here is how it was formatted:

A screenshot of the acknowledgements section from my PhD thesis

But let’s not just look at my thesis. Using Imperial’s publicly accessible database I went through 25 published PhD theses for you.

The average (mean) length of these 25 theses was 365 words and 1793 characters without spaces. Writing an acknowledgements section of length 350-450 words was the most common:

Histogram of thesis acknowledgements length. Most theses were between 350-450 words long

The shortest acknowledgements sections was 122 words(653 characters) long. The longest one consisted of 1022 words and 5082 characters. Hopefully this illustrates that you’re not really bound by any limits. Write as much or as little as you want for this section.

Sample thesis acknowledgements

My own phd thesis acknowledgement.

My own PhD thesis is available here *, the acknowledgements section is on page 5. Here is the complete version of my acknowledgements section:

I would like to acknowledge both EPSRC and the Class of 1964 Scholarship for their financial support. It has been an honour to be the inaugural recipient of the Class of 1964 Scholarship and I am indebted to the donors in providing me complete academic freedom in this research. An immense thank you to my PhD supervisors: Jonathan Jeffers, Ulrich Hansen and Julian Jones. Support and guidance throughout the project from you all has been invaluable. JJ in particular you’ve been a fantastic primary supervisor. Thank you to all the academics who helped me get to this stage. The late Dr Kajal Mallick and his Biomedical Materials course at the University of Warwick was a huge influence and without which I would have never followed this path. My “pre-doc” supervisors in Dr Helen Lee of University of Cambridge and in particular the remarkable Prof Judith Hall OBE of Cardiff University from whom I learned so much. Thanks to Alison Paul and Michael Lim for being so supportive when I was considering applying for PhDs. It has been an amazing experience working between two research groups across different departments, thanks to everyone from the Biomechanics and JRJ groups I’ve worked with and from whom I’ve learned so much. Thank you of course to the Hybrids team I’ve worked so closely on this project with: Fra, Gloria, Agathe, Maria, Silvia, it’s been great fun working with you all! Gloria in particular thanks for you all your help, support and friendship: your inclusivity is appreciated by many. Saman, I’ve been so pleased to have you working on DVC with me and being able to discuss ideas with you really has been invaluable. I am grateful to everyone I’ve collaborated with externally: Farah, Amin and Brett (Natural History Museum) plus Andy and Behzad (Royal Veterinary College), thank you all for your support and input. Thanks also to everyone I’ve met through the Environmental Society at Imperial in particular Chelcie: your friendship and support have added a lot to my life. Thanks to Imperial for providing space for the ESoc garden, taking a break and enjoy nature in this space has certainly improved my work. Thanks of course to my family for their support. Finally, thank you Jo for always being so supportive and helping me every step of the way. My PhD thesis, available here . Acknowledgements are on page 5.

*For me the thesis was a means to an end. I wanted my PhD and didn’t want to spend too long agonising over each page. Therefore, it is possible there are typos in there, if you read any of it: firstly well done, I haven’t looked at it much since submitting the final copy, secondly, please don’t tell me about any typos you find!

Other PhD thesis acknowledgement examples

Below are the other 24 published and openly accessible STEM PhD theses I found for this article.

For each person’s thesis, either follow the first link to be taken to the landing page or follow the second link to directly download their thesis: I gave you a choice in case you don’t want stuff to start downloading automatically from a random text link!

PhD thesis acknowledgements example access tutorial

The list is formatted as follows:

  • [Link to thesis page on repository], [which page the acknowledgements appear on], [direct link to download the thesis]
  • Dr Shipman’s thesis , for the acknowledgements go to page 3. Direct download here .
  • Longest acknowledgements section of the list at 1022 words.
  • Dr Li’s thesis , page 11. Direct download here .
  • Dr Podgurschi’s thesis , page 5. Direct download here .
  • Dr Medjeral-Thomas’ thesis page 3. Direct download here .
  • Dr Sztuc’s thesis , page 5. Direct download here .
  • Dr Yap’s thesis , page 5. Direct download here .
  • Dr Sukkar’s thesis , page 9. Direct download here .
  • Dr Lo’s thesis , page 11. Direct download here .
  • Dr Sullivan’s thesis , page 5. Direct download here .
  • Dr Tawy’s thesis , page 3. Direct download here .
  • Dr Wane’s thesis , page 2. Direct download here .
  • Dr Addison’s thesis , page 4. Direct download here .
  • Dr Wang’s thesis , page 5. Direct download here .
  • Dr Sebest’s thesis , page 3. Direct download here .
  • Dr Hopkins’ thesis , page 7. Direct download here .
  • Dr Bates’s thesis , page 4. Direct download here .
  • Dr Somuyiwa’s thesis , page 6. Direct download here .
  • Dr Reynolds’ thesis , page 5. Direct download here .
  • My labmate’s thesis, who wrote the acknowledgements in a different style to the rest by using bullet points.
  • Shortest acknowledgements section of the list at 122 words.
  • Dr Manca’s thesis , acknowledgements on page 5. Direct download here .
  • Dr Liu’s thesis , page 5. Direct download here .
  • Dr Hotinli’s thesis , page 7. Direct download here .

My top tips for writing your own thesis acknowledgements

  • Don’t spend too long on them. The acknowledgements section is really not worth spending too much time on. Even worse, since they appear at the start of your thesis, it is tempting to write your acknowledgements first. This can be fine, or, it can be an opportunity for lots of unnecessary procrastination. Which I why I instead suggest that you…
  • Write your acknowledgements at the end of your first draft of the thesis. There is no need to write your thesis in the order it is presented. If you write your acknowledgements at the end you’ll be less likely to spend precious time on a section which really doesn’t warrant too much brain power.
  • Don’t stress about it. The acknowledgements are merely for yourself and for anyone close to you that you want to thank. There are far more important sections for you to be particular about!
  • Remember: You can make changes after you submit the copy for your viva. As with everything in your thesis, you can make changes after you submit the thesis for your viva. The real “final” copy is when you submit your thesis to the university for archiving. Which is even more reason to not spend too much time writing it the first time around.

Draft your own thesis or dissertation acknowledgements in 60 minutes

Hopefully you now feel inspired to start writing your own thesis acknowledgments!

For the exercise below I’d suggest setting a stop-watch on your phone and move on to the next section when the alarm goes, even if you’ve not fully finished. The aim is to have a rough draft at the end which you can polish off at a later point in time.

  • Read a few of the example thesis acknowledgements above to get a feel for the structure ( 15 mins )
  • List everyone (or everything!) you wish to thank – including any personal and professional acknowledgements in addition to funding bodies if relevant ( 10 mins )
  • Decide on a rough order in which to thank them ( 5 mins )
  • Craft some sentences using the phrases mentioned above ( 30 mins )

Congratulations you’re now well on your way to having one section of your PhD thesis completed!

I hope this post has been useful for constructing your own thesis or dissertation acknowledgements. It is the first in a series of posts aiming to help your thesis writing by delving into each section in depth. Be sure to let me know if you have any questions or suggestions for other content which you would find useful.

Subscribe below to stay updated about future posts in the series:

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How to write a unique thesis acknowledgement (+ FAQs)

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Crafting a thesis acknowledgement is typically one of the final steps in completing a thesis. This post aims to assist you in gaining insights and guidance by addressing common questions related to thesis acknowledgements. By doing so, it enables you to create a distinct and meaningful acknowledgment section that reflects your gratitude and appreciation.

What is a thesis acknowledgement?

Do i need a thesis acknowledgement, who should i thank in my thesis acknowledgment, how can i make my thesis acknowledgement uniquely personal, how formal should a thesis acknowledgement be, to what extent should i express personal sentiments in my thesis acknowledgement, how should i structure my thesis acknowledgement, how long should a thesis acknowledgement be, where is the thesis acknowledgement located, where can i find examples of thesis acknowledgements.

A thesis acknowledgement is a special section commonly included at the beginning of a thesis or dissertation. In this section, the author of the thesis expresses gratitude and appreciation to individuals or groups who have contributed to the successful completion of their academic work. It is a way for the author to acknowledge the support, guidance, and assistance they received during the research and writing process.

While a thesis acknowledgement is typically not a mandatory requirement, omitting it might not be seen positively. Writing a thesis almost always involves some form of assistance or support, whether from a supervisor, family, or friends.

Acknowledging these contributions is not only considerate but also showcases your gratitude and reflects well on your character. Including a thesis acknowledgement demonstrates your appreciation for the help you received throughout your academic journey, underscoring the collaborative nature of research and academic pursuits.

  • Yes, it is strongly recommended to include a thesis acknowledgement.

The thesis acknowledgement offers flexibility, but thanking your thesis supervisor/s is an absolute must—non-negotiable. It would be highly unusual to omit their appreciation.

Additionally, it’s customary to thank those who contributed data, such as interviewees or survey participants. While listing every individual may be impractical, acknowledging their assistance shows respect and gratitude. If someone went above and beyond to help you establish contacts for your case study, it’s worth mentioning.

Apart from these essentials, you have the freedom to thank anyone you desire. Common mentions include parents, partners, friends, peers, and colleagues. Some may even extend gratitude to pets or coffee! Injecting humor is acceptable, but maintaining a certain level of formality is advised, as explained in the subsequent section.

  • Acknowledging your thesis supervisor/s is a non-negotiable requirement.
  • Show appreciation to those who contributed data or support, like interviewees or survey participants.
  • Feel free to thank parents, partners, friends, and colleagues.

How to deal with a thesis supervisor with whom I had a challenging relationship in my thesis acknowledgement?

Regrettably, not everyone shares a positive relationship with their thesis supervisor. Nevertheless, it is important to acknowledge them in your thesis.

When doing so, maintain a concise approach while ensuring a respectful and diplomatic tone, refraining from any negative aspects or conflicts. Instead, emphasize the professional aspects of their contribution, such as supporting the development of the theoretical framework or providing valuable critical feedback that enhanced the quality of your work.

  • Acknowledge your thesis supervisor, even if your relationship was challenging.
  • Maintain a concise and respectful tone.
  • Focus on the supervisor’s professional contributions.

Once you have decided whom to thank in your thesis acknowledgement, consider going beyond generic expressions of gratitude. Making your acknowledgements more personal and specific can make them truly special. Instead of simply thanking someone for their guidance and support, include examples that highlight the unique contributions of those individuals.

For instance, if you are thanking your fellow thesis writers, you can say something like: “Long study sessions at the library with John and Sabine made thesis writing a joyful experience.” This demonstrates the specific way they contributed to your journey.

Similarly, if you had engaging conversations during walks in the park with someone, you can mention: “Our thoughtful discussions while strolling through the park were a crucial aspect of getting excited about my thesis topic.”

By providing concrete examples, your acknowledgements become more heartfelt and memorable, showing the genuine impact of each person you thank.

  • If possible, make thesis acknowledgements personal and specific.
  • Include examples of how each person contributed uniquely.
  • Highlight specific interactions or experiences that made a difference in your thesis journey.

While there are no strict rules for writing a thesis acknowledgement, it’s essential to consider its significance as one of the first things readers encounter in your thesis. Therefore, maintaining a certain level of formality is advised.

Avoid including details of personal experiences like drinking excesses with friends or lavish parties to cope with thesis stress. Such content could create a negative impression and should be avoided.

Remember that your thesis is an academic work, and the acknowledgement should not detract from its academic merit. Focus on expressing gratitude to those who contributed to your academic journey in a professional and appropriate manner.

  • Keep a level of formality, as your acknowledgement section is one of the first things readers see.

People have different boundaries in terms of how open they are, and you should do what you feel comfortable with. But don’t forget that your thesis will likely be a document open to the public. So make sure that you will be comfortable with the information out there, also 2, 5 or ten years from now.

That said, the thesis acknowledgement is there to showcase your human side and your gratitude for your loved ones. So don’t hold back when you really want to thank someone deep from your heart.

And of course make sure that the information you reveal about the people you thank, they are also comfortable with it. You should not, for instance, describe your messy breakup with a person and even worse naming the person by name. Instead, you can write something more neutral in a way that people who know you well still know what you mean. For instance, you could thank your friends for always being there for you during challenging times, which you are grateful for.

  • Remember that your thesis is public, so ensure you’ll be okay with the information long-term.
  • Thank people genuinely but avoid sharing sensitive or personal details about others.

When writing a thesis acknowledgement, there are several acceptable ways to structure it, each serving its purpose. Three commonly used approaches stand out.

The first method is the chronological structure, typically employed in longer theses like PhD dissertations. In a chronological acknowledgement, you express gratitude to those who supported you throughout your entire thesis journey . For instance, you can start by thanking your supervisor for their guidance from the very beginning, then acknowledge the organizers of the PhD summer school you attended in year two, followed by appreciation for your friends who encouraged you during the challenging writing phase in year three, and so on.

The second approach involves structuring the acknowledgement based on the nature of relationships, ranging from formal to personal. Here, you begin by expressing thanks to your formal supervisors and professors who played a significant role in shaping your research, then move on to more informal yet professional mentors. Subsequently, you extend your gratitude to friends, family, and, if applicable, your partner or spouse.

The third common method is essentially the reverse of the second one, starting with personal relationships and ending with formal ones. In this arrangement, you begin by thanking your close friends and family members for their unwavering support, then move on to acknowledge professional mentors who contributed to your academic growth, and finally conclude the acknowledgement with appreciation for your thesis supervisor.

  • Thesis acknowledgements can be structured chronologically.
  • Thesis acknowledgements can be structured from formal to personal.
  • Thesis acknowledgements can be structured from personal to formal.

The general guideline is that the length of the thesis acknowledgement can vary depending on the length of the thesis itself. However, this doesn’t imply that it must be excessively long.

For bachelor or master theses, the average length typically ranges from 100 to 250 words, equivalent to about half a page.

PhD thesis acknowledgements, on the other hand, tend to be longer, given the extended duration of PhD research. The average length for a PhD thesis acknowledgement ranges from 250 to 1000 words, or approximately half a page to 2 pages.

  • Bachelor’s theses: usually 100-250 words
  • Master’s theses: usually 100-350 words
  • PhD theses: usually 250 – 1000 words

The thesis acknowledgement is typically positioned right at the beginning of the thesis, following the title page and preceding the table of contents. This placement ensures that it remains distinct from the academic content of the thesis.

When formatting your document, it’s advisable to insert blank pages to maintain a proper layout in the printed version, especially when double-paged printing is used. To achieve this layout, page 1 is reserved for the title page, page 2 is often left empty, and page 3 contains the thesis acknowledgement. Additionally, page four is frequently left blank as well. This arrangement enhances the reading experience of the printed version and provides a more polished appearance to the document.

  • The thesis acknowledgement is typically placed at the beginning of the thesis, after the title page and before the table of contents.
  • Leaving empty pages, such as page 2 and often page 4, helps in maintaining a visually pleasing layout, when double-sided printing is used.

thesis acknowledgement family and friends

Many universities maintain thesis repositories, providing students access to previous years’ theses. This serves a twofold purpose: firstly, it helps students gain clarity on the university’s expectations, preferred style, and required length for a thesis. Secondly, it offers a valuable opportunity to explore a diverse array of thesis acknowledgements, serving as a source of inspiration for crafting one’s own acknowledgment section.

In addition to utilizing the university’s repository, I have created five examples of PhD thesis acknowledgements that you can review for further guidance and ideas.

  • Check your university’s thesis repository.
  • Find five PhD thesis acknowledgement examples here .

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Grad Coach (R)

Overview: Acknowledgements Template

This template provides a basic structure for the acknowledgements section of a typical dissertation, thesis or research project.

In line with academic best practice , the acknowledgements are structured from most formal (supervisor, committee, etc.) to least formal (family and friends). Each section has easy to use placeholders that allow you to create your acknowledgements section in just a few minutes. 

The cleanly formatted Google Doc can be downloaded as a fully editable MS Word Document (DOCX format), so you can use it as-is or convert it to LaTeX.

PS – if you’d like a high-level template for the entire thesis, you can we’ve got that too .

Dissertation & Thesis Conclusion FAQ

What format is the template (doc, pdf, ppt, etc.).

The acknowledgements section template is provided as a Google Doc. You can download it in MS Word format or make a copy to your Google Drive. You’re also welcome to convert it to whatever format works best for you, such as LaTeX or PDF.

Is this template for an undergrad, Master or PhD-level thesis?

This template can be used for a dissertation, thesis or research project at any level of study. As always, be sure to check your university’s requirements and norms in terms of document structure.

What types of dissertations/theses can this be used for?

The acknowledgements section template template follows the standard format for academic research projects, which means it will be suitable for the majority of dissertations, theses and research projects (especially those within the sciences).

Keep in mind that the exact requirements for the conclusion chapter/section will vary between universities and degree programs. So, be sure to double-check your university’s requirements before you finalize your structure.

How long should the acknowledgement section be?

Typically, the acknowledgements section comprises a few paragraphs at most. Keep it short and sweet.

Can I share this template with my friends/colleagues?

Yes, you’re welcome to share this template in its original format (no editing allowed). If you want to post about it on your blog or social media, please reference this page as your source.

Do you have templates for the other chapters?

Yes, we do. We are constantly developing our collection of free resources to help students complete their dissertations and theses. You can view all of our template resources here .

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How to Write Acknowledgements for a Thesis

Last Updated: January 19, 2023

This article was co-authored by wikiHow Staff . Our trained team of editors and researchers validate articles for accuracy and comprehensiveness. wikiHow's Content Management Team carefully monitors the work from our editorial staff to ensure that each article is backed by trusted research and meets our high quality standards. This article has been viewed 18,946 times.

The acknowledgements section of your thesis provides you with an opportunity to thank anyone who supported you during the research and writing process. Before writing your acknowledgements, it's helpful to first choose who exactly you want to include. Then, you can construct your acknowledgements using the right tone and language to properly thank those who contributed to and supported your work in both academic and personal ways.

Choosing Who to Thank

Step 1 Include your primary academic advisors and financial supporters.

  • If you choose not to include funders or advisors in your acknowledgements, you could risk insulting them. This could prevent them from working with you in the future, and could even lead them to refuse to write you any letters of recommendation.
  • In many cases, you'll have 1 academic advisor who is the chair of your thesis review committee, and then 2 or 3 additional faculty members who serve as secondary co-advisors. If this is the case, make sure that you include your secondary co-advisors in addition to your chair.

Step 2 Make a list of other professional contacts who contributed to your work.

  • This could be other faculty members, fellow students, research assistants, archivists, librarians, or other institutional personnel who assisted in the research and writing process in any way.
  • Professional contributors could include people who read and reviewed your work, helped facilitate research, or talked through challenging concepts and ideas with you throughout the thesis-writing process.

Step 3 Include family and friends who were active supporters.

  • For example, while you may be close with and enjoy seeing a particular cousin or childhood friend, if they weren't actively supporting you during this time, you likely won't have space to include them in your acknowledgements.

Step 4 Mention well-known professionals in your field wherever relevant.

  • If a well-known academic in your field was particularly inspirational but did not read your work, you can also mention them in your acknowledgements if you have space to do so.

Step 5 Acknowledge a higher power if your faith was central to your success.

  • If your faith is particularly important to you, you could also consider dedicating your thesis to the higher power you believe in. This could be done within the acknowledgments, or on a separate dedication page depending on your institution's formatting preferences.

Step 6 Focus on acknowledging those who directly impacted your work.

  • If someone was a great influence in your life but didn't contribute to your thesis directly, you could consider writing them a personal letter or email instead of including them in your acknowledgements.

Constructing Your Acknowledgements

Step 1 Limit your acknowledgements section to 1 double-spaced page or less.

  • While there's no set rule about acknowledgement order, in general, funders are thanked first for their financial support, then academic supervisors, followed by other academics and professionals, as well as colleagues and classmates.

Step 3 Thank your family and friends last.

  • If you're afraid that your personal supporters might be offended by being acknowledged last, you could explain to them that this is a professional courtesy.

Step 4 Expand on how your biggest supporters helped you.

  • Since your academic advisor was likely a big part of your research and writing process, you'll likely want to expand on how they helped you. For example, you could write, “I would like to thank my advisor, Dr. Timothy Kelly, for his guidance and prompt feedback throughout this process.”

Step 5 Use full names and titles for professional acknowledgements.

  • In contrast, you can include only first names for your personal acknowledgements if you choose.

Step 6 Use the same font size and type as the rest of your thesis.

Using the Right Tone and Language

Step 1 Focus on others’ contributions rather than your own accomplishments.

  • If you focus on your own accomplishments too much, you could risk coming off as a bit smug. Instead, let the quality of your work speak for itself and use the acknowledgements to focus on others.

Step 2 Use relatively formal language to thank professional contributors.

  • This is particularly important to keep in mind when you thank your academic peers or faculty members that you've developed a personal relationship with, as it can be tempting to write too casually in these instances. [16] X Research source
  • For example, to thank your advisor, you could write, “I could not have completed this work without the unwavering support of my chair, Dr. Sherre McWhorter. Dr. McWhorter, your patience and guidance made this work possible.”

Step 3 Thank your family and friends with slightly more personal language.

  • If your parents provided substantial support for you during this process, thank them in a personal manner by saying something like, “It is impossible to extend enough thanks to my family, especially my parents, who gave me the encouragement I needed throughout this process.”
  • Instead of naming each of your friends individually, you could try thanking them collectively in a more casual manner. For example, you could write, “To my friends, this would have been a much more difficult feat without you. Thank you all for your unwavering support and for reminding me to take breaks and have fun when I’ve been stressed out.”

Step 4 Avoid overly strong emotive language throughout.

  • If you want to thank someone for their support in a more emotional, personal manner, try thanking them in person or with a handwritten letter.

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  • ↑ https://www.scribbr.com/dissertation/acknowledgements/
  • ↑ https://www.phdstudent.com/Writing-Tips/writing-acknowledgements-your-personal-gratitude
  • ↑ Jeremiah Kaplan. Research & Training Specialist. Expert Interview. 2 September 2021.
  • ↑ https://elc.polyu.edu.hk/FYP/html/ack.htm

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6 Best Master Thesis Acknowledgement Samples

November 20, 2023

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By Mohsin Khurshid

Acknowledging the support and contributions in a master’s thesis is a crucial part of academic writing. Discovering exemplary acknowledgments can offer insight and inspiration for crafting one’s own. Here, we present six compelling samples that showcase gratitude and recognition in scholarly work.

Table of Contents

  • 1.1 Master Thesis Acknowledgement Sample
  • 1.2 Acknowledgement for Master Thesis
  • 1.3 Master Thesis Acknowledgement Example
  • 1.4 Master Thesis Acknowledgement Template
  • 1.5 Best Acknowledgement for Master Thesis
  • 1.6 Acknowledgement Sample for Master Thesis File
  • 2 How to write acknowledgement for master thesis
  • 3 Conclusion

Six Samples of Acknowledgement for Master Thesis

Below are some best acknowledgment samples that you can use in your master level thesis or create your own by editing these.

Master Thesis Acknowledgement Sample

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to my advisor, [Advisor Name], whose unwavering guidance and support were the cornerstone of my journey through this master’s program. Their expertise and encouragement were pivotal in navigating this research and composing this thesis.

My sincere thanks also go to [Name] and [Name] for their roles on my thesis committee, providing invaluable feedback and suggestions that significantly enriched this work.

I express deep appreciation to [Name] for granting me the opportunity to conduct my research at [Organization Name], providing invaluable resources and unwavering support throughout.

My friends and family deserve immense acknowledgment for their love and unwavering support throughout this process. Their presence made this journey not just possible, but meaningful.

Lastly, profound gratitude to all the participants in my study whose time and willingness to share their experiences were indispensable. This work owes its completion to their invaluable contributions.

Acknowledgement for Master Thesis

I am profoundly thankful for the unwavering support and guidance of my advisor, [Advisor Name], throughout my master’s program. Their expertise and patience have been invaluable, playing a pivotal role in the success of this thesis.

Gratitude extends to [Organization], offering me the opportunity to conduct my research and generously providing resources and support. Special thanks to [Name], whose exceptional support greatly contributed to this work.

My heartfelt appreciation to [Name] for serving on my thesis committee, and offering invaluable feedback and guidance that shaped this research and thesis.

Immense gratitude to friends and family for their unwavering love and support, driving me through this transformative journey.

Acknowledgment also goes to my [Organization] colleagues, especially [Name] for [specific task] and [Name] for [specific task], their collaboration was invaluable.

Finally, sincere appreciation to all participants in my study. Their shared experiences and insights were instrumental in shaping this thesis into what it is. Thank you for your invaluable contribution.

Master Thesis Acknowledgement Example

In navigating my academic journey, my advisor, [Advisor Name], served as a guiding light, offering invaluable support and direction throughout the thesis. I extend my sincere appreciation to [Name] and [Name], whose contributions significantly shaped and refined this scholarly work.

The support and resources provided by [Organization Name] were fundamental in conducting thorough research and crafting this thesis. To my family and friends, your unwavering encouragement and unwavering support made this scholarly pursuit both meaningful and achievable. The heartfelt stories and experiences shared by the participants in my study breathed life into this thesis, enriching its content and essence. Each individual’s involvement in this academic endeavor has contributed significantly to its fabric.

Master Thesis Acknowledgement Template

My deepest gratitude goes to [Advisor Name] for their unwavering guidance and mentorship throughout my academic journey. I am profoundly grateful to [Name] and [Name] for their invaluable contributions that greatly impacted and refined this thesis. The support and resources provided by [Organization Name] created an optimal environment for research and scholarly exploration.

To my family and friends, your constant encouragement and support have been the cornerstone of this academic expedition. The narratives and insights shared by the study participants have added depth and richness to this thesis, shaping its essence. Every individual’s support and involvement have intricately woven the tapestry of this academic pursuit.

Best Acknowledgement for Master Thesis

My mentor, [Advisor Name], has been an indispensable guide throughout this thesis expedition, offering unwavering support and profound wisdom. Gratitude fills my heart for the invaluable contributions of [Name] and [Name], whose insights and feedback significantly shaped and refined this scholarly work. The support rendered by [Organization Name] proved pivotal, providing resources essential for the thorough exploration conducted in this research endeavor.

To my beloved family and friends, your unwavering encouragement and steadfast belief in my abilities sustained me through this academic pursuit. Each participant who shared their experiences enriched this thesis, infusing it with depth and authenticity. This work stands as a testament to the collective support and contributions of everyone involved.

Acknowledgement Sample for Master Thesis File

Heartfelt appreciation goes to [Advisor Name] for their continuous guidance and unwavering support throughout the journey of this thesis. The substantial contributions of [Name] and [Name] played a pivotal role in shaping and refining this academic endeavor. The generous support and resources provided by [Organization Name] were instrumental in facilitating comprehensive research for this thesis.

To my cherished family and friends, your constant support and belief in my capabilities were the cornerstone of this academic pursuit. The narratives and insights shared by the participants added depth and authenticity to this work, making it a culmination of collective efforts and invaluable contributions. This thesis stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit and support received from all quarters.

Acknowledgement Sample for Master Thesis File

How to write acknowledgement for master thesis

When writing an acknowledgment for your master’s thesis, consider these steps:

Identify Key Contributors: Start by acknowledging the individuals or entities who played a significant role in your master’s thesis work. This could include your advisor, committee members, peers, family, friends, and any organizations or institutions that supported your research.

Express Gratitude: Use sincere and appreciative language to express your gratitude. Acknowledge their specific contributions, guidance, support, or encouragement and highlight how it impacted your master’s degree.

Be Personal and Genuine: Share personal sentiments if comfortable, expressing how their support or guidance was instrumental in your M.Phil journey. Avoid generic or overly formal language; instead, convey heartfelt thanks.

Consider Professional Courtesy: If acknowledging professionals or organizations, adhere to any guidelines or formalities required by them or your institution.

Keep it Concise and Respectful: Keep your MS thesis acknowledgment section concise but inclusive, ensuring that everyone you wish to thank is mentioned.

Here’s a generic structure:

  • Start with a Grateful Tone: “I would like to express my sincere gratitude…”
  • Name Specific Individuals or Entities: List the names of your advisor, committee members, family, friends, and any institutions.
  • Detail Their Contributions: Briefly outline how each person or entity contributed. For example, “for their invaluable guidance,” “for their unwavering support,” etc.
  • Conclude with Appreciation: End with a final expression of gratitude and the impact their support had on your thesis work.

Remember, the acknowledgment section is an opportunity to show appreciation to those who contributed to your academic journey. It’s a personal statement, so tailor it to reflect your genuine feelings of gratitude. Read tips for writing acknowledgment for your thesis.

Crafting a meaningful acknowledgment for a master’s thesis involves recognizing the various elements and individuals that contributed to its completion. These six samples serve as guiding beacons, illustrating the diverse ways to express gratitude and appreciation within academic work.

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Acknowledgement Examples

Examples of Acknowledgement for Project, Thesis and Assignments

Acknowledgement For Thesis

Written acknowledgements are a common feature of thesis papers and other academic writing. They are a way of thanking those who have helped you in the research and writing process, and can be a great way to show your gratitude.

If you’re not sure how to write acknowledgements, or are looking for a few examples to get started, this article will help. It contains eight+ examples of acknowledgement for thesis papers, as well as tips on how to write your own. So whether you’re just starting out, or need a little help putting your acknowledgements together, read on!

Acknowledgement Writing Tips For Thesis

Here are a few tips for writing acknowledgements in a thesis or dissertation:

  • Start by thanking your advisor or thesis committee for their guidance and support throughout the research process.
  • Express gratitude to any professors or other individuals who have provided feedback or assistance with your research.
  • Acknowledge any funding sources that have supported your research, such as grants or scholarships.
  • Remember to thank anyone else who has provided assistance or support during the research and writing process, such as friends, family, and colleagues.
  • Keep the tone of your acknowledgements sincere and heartfelt.
  • Keep it short, usually no longer than a page.
  • Avoid including any personal or confidential information that shouldn’t be shared in a public document.
  • Re-read and proofread the acknowledgement page, it should be free of grammar, syntax and spelling errors as it is a important part of the thesis.

Other Acknowledgement Article: 

  • How To Write An Acknowledgement For College Project?
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Acknowledgement Examples For Thesis

So, we can conclude that an acknowledgement for a thesis can take many different forms. It can be as simple as a thank you to friends and family who supported the student during the research and writing process, or it can be more formal, such as thanking a funding agency or research institution. Whatever form it takes, an acknowledgement for a thesis should be heartfelt and express the student’s gratitude for the support they received.

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14 Dissertation Acknowledgements Examples

Dissertation acknowledgements examples.

Here are 14 dissertation acknowledgements examples to inspire you. They cover a range of academic subjects and are all from UK students. Note how they vary in length, style and substance. 

Note – all samples have been taken from documents available in the public realm. 

Remember to always keep your acknowledgements to a maximum of a page .

So let’s dive right in!

Thank you to my supervisor, Dr Andrew R., for providing guidance and feedback throughout this project. Thanks also to my wife Anna, for putting up with me being sat in the office for hours on end, and for providing guidance and a sounding board when required.
I would like to thank the following people for helping with this research project: Representatives from Historic England, Historic Scotland, the Society for the Protection of Scottish Buildings and the Sustainable Buildings Alliance for their willingness to impart their knowledge. All the conservation officers and heritage team members who took the time to complete my questionnaire and who contributed so thoroughly through their further comments and emails. I would particularly like to thank those conservation officers who agreed to be interviewed. Brenda P., my tutor, who guided me so positively and who always made me feel confident in my abilities after coming off the phone to her. Jan W. for his help with statistics. My husband and children for their patience and encouragement.
I would like to thank the following people, without whom I would not have been able to complete this research, and without whom I would not have made it through my masters degree! The XYZ team at Johnson University, especially to my supervisor Dr Paul C., whose insight and knowledge into the subject matter steered me through this research. And special thanks to Linda T., whose support as part of her PhD allowed my studies to go the extra mile (sorry for all the extra work Linda!). The residents of Dundee, who took the time to return surveys and allowed me into your homes for follow up surveys, and without whom I would have no content for my thesis. My colleagues at the Old Building Trust and Old Building Foundation, who have supported me and had to put up with my stresses and moans for the past three years of study! And my biggest thanks to my family for all the support you have shown me through this research, the culmination of three years of distance learning. For my kids, sorry for being even grumpier than normal whilst I wrote this thesis! And for my wife Jenny, thanks for all your support, without which I would have stopped these studies a long time ago,. You have been amazing, and I will now clear all the papers off the kitchen table as I promised!
I would like to thank the following people who have helped me undertake this research: My supervisor Dr. Peter B., for his enthusiasm for the project, for his support, encouragement and patience; The Institute of Energy and Sustainable Development, Johnson University, for input throughout this MSc programme. For their contributions to data collection: David K at Tech David K, VS Limited Steven M Conal M., Engineer, County Council The good people of Brighton who were so generous with their time in completing the questionnaire surveys. My partner Billy – I simply couldn’t have done this without you, special thanks. Dear friends and family and Hattie. And to my parents, who set me off on the road to this MSc a long time ago.
I would like to thank Mr. Joe Smith for guiding me to his important publications and for the stimulating questions on artificial intelligence and automation. The meetings and conversations were vital in inspiring me to think outside the box, from multiple perspectives to form a comprehensive and objective critique.
First of all, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Beauville Scholarships, the UK government’s global scholarship programme, funded by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and partner organisations, for letting me be part of this incredible leaders’ network. Further, I would like to thank my supervisor Alejandro for the thoughtful comments and recommendations on this dissertation. I am also thankful to the School of Engineering and all its member’s staff for all the considerate guidance. To conclude, I cannot forget to thank my family and friends for all the unconditional support in this very intense academic year.
I would like to thank my supervisor Prof. Mark W. and Liam H. for their consistent support and guidance during the running of this project. Furthermore I would like to thank the rest of the undergraduate research team for their collaborative effort during data collection. I would also like to acknowledge the school in Bradford for their participation and engagement in the study.
I would like to thank my supervisor Gina K. for her dedicated support and guidance. Gina continuously provided encouragement and was always willing and enthusiastic to assist in any way she could throughout the research project. I would also like to thank Andrew P. for providing advice regarding analysis.Finally, many thanks to all participants that took part in the study and enabled this research to be possible.
With many thanks to my supervisor Dr Martyn G. for his guidance during this research. To Jennie R., the dissertation module leader, for her support and encouragement throughout the process. Furthermore, to my mentor, Josh B. for providing access and introductions to women leaders, without this, the research would not have been possible. Finally, to all of the women who sacrificed their time, and the support of these well-known companies for their participation.
I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation for Barbara S. whose guidance, support and encouragement has been invaluable throughout this study. I also wish to thank the team an CIL who have been a great source of support.
Firstly, I’d like to express my thanks to my patient and supportive supervisor, Tao J., who has supported me throughout this research project. I am extremely grateful for our friendly chats at the end of our meetings and your personal support in my academic and business endeavours. I’d also like to thank my participants and customers who took the time to reflect on their consumption choices. Thank you for expressing your thoughts so eloquently and your feminism so unapologetically.
I would like to say a special thank you to my supervisor, Jennie R. Her support, guidance and overall insights in this field have made this an inspiring experience for me. I would also like to thank all of the women who participated in the study’s interviews. Finally, I would like to thank my family for supporting me during the compilation of this dissertation.
I would like to thank Rik B. for his continued support throughout this project. Guy R., through Dyesol and Philip L. for their SIM images of porous stone. I would also like to thank Dr. Steven M. for his advice throughout the project. Finally I would like to thank Maureen H. at the University of Freetown for allowing me to visit her and her explanation of various techniques.
From the bottom of my heart I would like to say big thank you for all the bioelectronics research group members for their energy, understanding and help throughout my project, especially to Mr D. N. for the guidance throughout the gel extraction, Mr Andrew L. for the help with AFM imaging and Mr Samuel D. H. for advice on the DNA analysis process. It truly has been very, very good time in this lab. I also would like to say special thank you to Professor P. W.and Dr R. S., without your help and wise guidance this project would have not been the same!

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  • Thesis & Dissertation Acknowledgements | Tips & Examples

Thesis & Dissertation Acknowledgements | Tips & Examples

Published on 4 May 2022 by Tegan George . Revised on 4 November 2022.

Acknowledgements-section

The acknowledgements section is your opportunity to thank those who have helped and supported you personally and professionally during your thesis or dissertation process.

Thesis or dissertation acknowledgements appear between your title page and abstract  and should be no longer than one page.

In your acknowledgements, it’s okay to use a more informal style than is usually permitted in academic writing , as well as first-person pronouns . Acknowledgements are not considered part of the academic work itself, but rather your chance to write something more personal.

To get started, download our step-by-step template in the format of your choice below. We’ve also included sample sentence starters to help you construct your acknowledgments section from scratch.

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Table of contents

Who to thank in your acknowledgements, how to write acknowledgements, acknowledgements section example, acknowledgements dos and don’ts, frequently asked questions.

Generally, there are two main categories of acknowledgements: professional and personal .

A good first step is to check your university’s guidelines, as they may have rules or preferences about the order, phrasing, or layout of acknowledgements. Some institutions prefer that you keep your acknowledgements strictly professional.

Regardless, it’s usually a good idea to place professional acknowledgements first, followed by any personal ones. You can then proceed by ranking who you’d like to thank from most formal to least.

  • Chairs, supervisors, or defence committees
  • Funding bodies
  • Other academics (e.g., colleagues or cohort members)
  • Editors or proofreaders
  • Librarians, research/laboratory assistants, or study participants
  • Family, friends, or pets

Typically, it’s only necessary to mention people who directly supported you during your thesis or dissertation. However, if you feel that someone like a secondary school physics teacher was a great inspiration on the path to your current research, feel free to include them as well.

Professional acknowledgements

It is crucial to avoid overlooking anyone who helped you professionally as you completed your thesis or dissertation. As a rule of thumb, anyone who directly contributed to your research should be mentioned.

A few things to keep in mind include:

  • Even if you feel your chair didn’t help you very much, you should still thank them first to avoid looking like you’re snubbing them.
  • Be sure to follow academic conventions, using full names with titles where appropriate.
  • If several members of a group or organisation assisted you, mention the collective name only.
  • Remember the ethical considerations around anonymised data. If you wish to protect someone’s privacy, use only their first name or a generic identifier (such as ‘the interviewees’).

Personal acknowledgements

There is no need to mention every member of your family or friend group. However, if someone was particularly inspiring or supportive, you may wish to mention them specifically. Many people choose to thank parents, partners, children, friends, and even pets, but you can mention anyone who offered moral support or encouragement, or helped you in a tangible or intangible way.

Some students may wish to dedicate their dissertation to a deceased influential person in their personal life. In this case, it’s okay to mention them first, before any professional acknowledgements.

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After you’ve compiled a list of who you’d like to thank, you can then sort your list into rank order. Separate everyone you listed into ‘major thanks’, ‘big thanks’, and ‘minor thanks’ categories.

  • ‘Major thanks’ are given to people who your project would be impossible without. These are often predominantly professional acknowledgements, such as your advisor , chair, and committee, as well as any funders.
  • ‘Big thanks’ are an in-between, for those who helped you along the way or helped you grow intellectually, such as classmates, peers, or librarians.
  • ‘Minor thanks’ can be a catch-all for everyone else, especially those who offered moral support or encouragement. This can include personal acknowledgements, such as parents, partners, children, friends, or even pets.

How to phrase your acknowledgements

To avoid acknowledgements that sound repetitive or dull, consider changing up your phrasing. Here are some examples of common sentence starters you can use for each category.

Note that you do not need to write any sort of conclusion or summary at the end. You can simply end the acknowledgements with your last thank-you.

Here’s an example of how you can combine the different sentences to write your acknowledgements.

A simple construction consists of a sentence starter (in purple highlight ), followed by the person or entity mentioned (in green highlight ), followed by what you’re thanking them for (in yellow highlight .)

Acknowledgements

Words cannot express my gratitude to my professor and chair of my committee for her invaluable patience and feedback. I also could not have undertaken this journey without my defense committee, who generously provided knowledge and expertise. Additionally, this endeavor would not have been possible without the generous support from the MacArthur Foundation, who financed my research .

I am also grateful to my classmates and cohort members, especially my office mates, for their editing help, late-night feedback sessions, and moral support. Thanks should also go to the librarians, research assistants, and study participants from the university, who impacted and inspired me.

Lastly, I would be remiss in not mentioning my family, especially my parents, spouse, and children. Their belief in me has kept my spirits and motivation high during this process. I would also like to thank my cat for all the entertainment and emotional support.

  • Write in first-person, professional language
  • Thank your professional contacts first
  • Include full names, titles, and roles of professional acknowledgements
  • Include personal or intangible supporters, like friends, family, or even pets
  • Mention funding bodies and what they funded
  • Appropriately anonymise or group research participants or non-individual acknowledgments

Don’t:

  • Use informal language or slang
  • Go over one page in length
  • Mention people who had only a peripheral or minor impact on your work

You may acknowledge God in your thesis or dissertation acknowledgements , but be sure to follow academic convention by also thanking the relevant members of academia, as well as family, colleagues, and friends who helped you.

Yes, it’s important to thank your supervisor(s) in the acknowledgements section of your thesis or dissertation .

Even if you feel your supervisor did not contribute greatly to the final product, you still should acknowledge them, if only for a very brief thank you. If you do not include your supervisor, it may be seen as a snub.

In the acknowledgements of your thesis or dissertation, you should first thank those who helped you academically or professionally, such as your supervisor, funders, and other academics.

Then you can include personal thanks to friends, family members, or anyone else who supported you during the process.

The acknowledgements are generally included at the very beginning of your thesis or dissertation, directly after the title page and before the abstract .

In a thesis or dissertation, the acknowledgements should usually be no longer than one page. There is no minimum length.

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Acknowledgement World

15+ Samples of Acknowledgement for Thesis and Dissertation

Here, in this blog post, you can find some of the samples of acknoweldgement for thesis written by students all over the world on different topics. These acknowledgement examples are to inspire you and to show how the thesis is written.

These thesis are written for different subjects by different students from different countries. The examples vary in length, style, and substance depending upon the writer.

Acknowledgement Examples for School/College Projects

Most popular Acknowledgement For School/College Projects [7 Examples] Acknowledgement for English Project [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for Project Class 11 and 12 Acknowledgement for Project of Class 8, 9 and 10 By subjects Acknowledgement for Accounting Project [3 Examples] Acknowledgement for Business Studies Project [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for Chemistry Project [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for Computer Project [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for Economics Project [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for English Project [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for Geography Project [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for History Project [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for Maths Project for Students [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for Physics Project [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for Social Science Project [5 Examples] Others Acknowledgement for Group Project [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for Graduation Project [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for Disaster Management Project [3 Examples] Acknowledgement for Yoga Project [3 Samples]

You can get some idea of how you can write your own acknowledgement with these samples. All of these are samples are one of the best acknowledgement for thesis for masters and PHDs .

For Acknowledgement for your school/college project you can check out out other posts.

All of these samples of acknowledgement is taken from publicly available documents. Some of these samples are from award winning thesis writings. Here are some beautiful thesis acknowledgement from different writers.

person sitting facing laptop computer with sketch pad

Saying thank you with style

How to write an acknowledgement: the complete guide for students, thesis acknowledgement – sample 1.

This sample of acknowledgement is presented by University of Illinois Graduate College. You can check the full thesis sample here.

University: University of Illinois Graduate College Author: Sample Full Thesis Sample: https://grad.illinois.edu/sites/default/files/pdfs/samplethesispages.pdf

Acknowledgement For Thesis – Sample 2

This short acknowledgement is written by Christopher Sipola from University of Edinburgh for his thesis. You can check the full thesis sample here.

University: University of Edinburgh Author: Christopher Sipola Full Thesis Sample: https://project-archive.inf.ed.ac.uk/msc/20172438/msc_proj.pdf

Example of Acknowledgement For Thesis – Sample 3

This short acknowledgement is written by Matthew Brillinger from University of Ottawa for his thesis. You can check the full thesis sample here.

University:   University of Ottawa Author: Matthew Brillinger Full Thesis Sample: https://ruor.uottawa.ca/bitstream/10393/35312/1/Brillinger_Matthew_2016_Thesis.pdf

Acknowledgement Sample For Thesis – Sample 4

University:   Columbia University Author: Julien Saint Reiman Full Thesis Sample: https://history.columbia.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/20/2016/06/Reiman-Julien-Thesis.pdf

Acknowledgement Example For Thesis – Sample 5

University:   University of Ottawa Author: Heather Martin Full Thesis Sample: https://ruor.uottawa.ca/bitstream/10393/32518/3/Martin_Heather_2015_thesis.pdf

Thesis Acknowledgement Example – Sample 6

University: University of Ottawa Author: Guillaume Thekkadath Full Thesis Sample: https://ruor.uottawa.ca/bitstream/10393/36669/3/Thekkadath_Guillaume_2017_thesis.pdf

Thesis Acknowledgement – Sample 7

University: Author: Bruno Buchberger Full Thesis Sample: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0747717105001483

Example of Thesis Acknowledgement – Sample 8

University: Sample Thesis Author: Full Thesis Sample: https://www.cs.siu.edu/files/thesis.pdf

Acknowledgement for Thesis – Sample 9

University: Kathmandu University Author: Sample Thesis Full Thesis Sample: http://old.ku.edu.np/aec/Docs/General%20Guidelines%20for%20Master.pdf

Sample Acknowledgement for Thesis – Sample 10

University: The University of Toledo Author: Sample Thesis Full Thesis Sample: https://etd.ohiolink.edu/apexprod/rws_etd/send_file/send?accession=toledo1333741245&disposition=attachment

Sample Acknowledgement for Thesis – Sample 11

University: IOWA STATE University Author: Varsha Ravichandra Mouli Full Thesis Sample: https://lib.dr.iastate.edu/cs_etd/

Acknowledgement for Thesis – Sample 12

University: IOWA STATE University Author: Full Thesis Sample: https://lib.dr.iastate.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=8730&context=etd

Acknowledgement Samples for Thesis – Sample 13

University: IOWA STATE University Author: Jenna Mertz Full Thesis Sample: https://lib.dr.iastate.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=8273&context=etd

Acknowledgement for Thesis – Sample 14

University: Nottingham University Author: Jean D. M. Underwood. Full Thesis Sample: http://eprints.nottingham.ac.uk/11711/1/325961.pdf

Acknowledgement Samples – Sample 15

University: The University of Western Ontario Author: Katie Hart Full Thesis Sample: https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=9356&context=etd

Acknowledgement Samples for Thesis – Sample 16

University: Author: Sristi Karmacharya Full Thesis Sample: https://bura.brunel.ac.uk/bitstream/2438/15029/1/FulltextThesis.pdf%20

Thesis Acknowledgement Samples – Sample 17

University: Brunel Business School Brunel University Author: Kinana Ahmad Jammoul Full Thesis Sample: http://107.170.122.150:8080/xmlui/bitstream/handle/123456789/95/Shristi%20Karmacharya%20Thesis%209881.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y

You can take inspiration from these acknowledgement samples to write your own acknowledgement for your project. All these acknowledgement samples are taken from publicly available documents and you can use these as a sample to take inspiration for your project acknowledgement.

More on thesis statements

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  • Can a Thesis Statement Be a Quote?

Jump into these quick guides to write a strong thesis statement in no time. We have included tons of good (and bad) examples to show you how to do it right. A simple formula is included in each article to help you create your strong thesis statement with suggested wordings.

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Other Popular Acknowledgement Examples

For work or business Acknowledgement Receipt of Payment [4 Examples] Acknowledging Receipt of Documents: A Quick Guide with Examples Acknowledgement for Presentation [9 Examples] Acknowledgement for Job Offer [3 Examples] Acknowledgement for Business Plan [4 Examples] Acknowledgement for Work Immersion [5 Examples] Acknowledgement of Receipt of Appraisal [3 Examples] Acknowledegment of Debt [5 Examples] Resignation Acknowledgement for Employers [5 Examples]

Academic Acknowledgement for Research Paper [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for Internship Report [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for Thesis and Dissertation [15 Examples] Acknowledgement for Portfolio [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for Case Study [4 Examples] Acknowledgement for Academic Research Paper [5 Examples] Acknowledgement for College/School Assignment [5 Examples] Acknowledgemet to God in Reports [5 Examples]

Others Acknowledgement to Funeral Attendees [5 Examples] Funeral Acknowledgement Templates (for Newspapers and Websites) Common Website Disclaimers to Protect Your Online Business Notary Acknowledgement [5 Examples]

6 thoughts on “15+ Samples of Acknowledgement for Thesis and Dissertation”

thesis acknowledgement family and friends

Thank you for creating this. It help us a lot, specially students.

thesis acknowledgement family and friends

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thesis acknowledgement family and friends

A profpund geatitude for your sample research acknowledfement! It is of great help in the success of my thesis study. God bless!

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thesis acknowledgement family and friends

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thesis acknowledgement family and friends

My Real Senior Thesis Acknowledgments

thesis acknowledgement family and friends

One of the highlights of writing a senior thesis is getting the chance to acknowledge all those that helped you along the way. Of course, most students start with thanking their advisers (and I actually meant it when I did), their departments (shoutout to ESPP), and their friends and family. But, it’s difficult to include everything and everyone you want to thank, because doing so would not sound very thesis-esque. Luckily, Flyby is giving me the perfect platform to share an unabridged version of my senior thesis acknowledgments.

So, thank you to:

Noah Kahan’s Stick Season (Forever) Album

This one was vital for locking into thesis writing in the Pfoho Library. All too often, I would forget to connect my laptop to my airpods before clicking play, so everyone had to listen to the intro of Northern Attitude.

Cabot Cafe’s Iced Matcha

(Although they ran out of matcha for a bit, which definitely was a rough period for me).

Harvard Center for the Environment Free Espresso

Made even better when extra creamy oat milk was made available in the mini fridge.

Danahey Park

For all those mid-afternoon mental health study breaks.

Cabot Cafe’s Vanilla Rooibos Tea Latte

Kudos to one of the amazing baristas for recommending this.

For answering my panicked messages in a time zone seven hours ahead of Boston time. They made it onto my actual thesis acknowledgements too (obviously).

My Cord Headphones

For when my Airpods were dead.

HUDS Oatmeal

Yup, you read that correctly. Curating an aesthetically pleasing oatmeal bowl was key to getting me out of bed all throughout the month of February.

Cabot Cafe’s Nutella Me More

My One Friend from the River

Who made our Quad-River friendship easier by actually coming to Pfoho for dinner!!!

Jordan North Study Breaks

For the random sushi and Berry-Line food drops.

My Electric Heating Pad

For making my naps extra cozy.

For the perfect post-thesis celebration.

Because who knew citing things could be easy?

For providing daily quality content and keeping me up to date with what was happening on campus even as I spent days locked in Widener. And for being the greatest, most creative and fun space on campus that I am lucky to have been a part of for the last four years. Words can’t express how much I will miss Sundays in the sanctum and coming up with slightly unhinged new, fun and fresh content. I’ll always be grateful for Flyby and my fly-fam <3

Harvard Today

The latest in your inbox., follow flyby online..

Examples

Acknowledgement for Project

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thesis acknowledgement family and friends

What is Acknowledgment for Project?

Acknowledgment in a project is a section where the writer expresses gratitude to individuals, groups, or institutions that contributed to the completion of the project. It typically includes thanks to advisors, faculty, peers, and family who provided support, guidance, or resources.

How to Write an Acknowledgment for Project?

Writing an acknowledgment for a project involves expressing gratitude in a structured and respectful manner. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to craft an effective acknowledgment section for your project:

1. Start with the Most Significant Contributions

Begin by thanking those who have made the most significant impact on your project. This often includes project advisors, supervisors, or professors. Acknowledging their guidance and support first sets the right tone.

2. Thank Supporting Staff and Colleagues

Include a thank-you to colleagues, laboratory assistants, librarians, or anyone else who provided technical support or assistance. These individuals often contribute immensely behind the scenes.

3. Acknowledge Financial Support

If your project received funding or scholarships, mention these sources and express your gratitude for the financial support. This could include grants, fellowships, or corporate sponsors.

4. Include Your Peers and Friends

Friends and peers often provide moral support, feedback, or informal advice that is crucial during challenging phases of a project. A thank you to these individuals shows your appreciation for their personal support.

5. Mention Family Members

It’s common to acknowledge family members who have provided emotional or financial support throughout your project. Personalizing this section adds a heartfelt touch to your acknowledgment.

6. Keep It Professional and Concise

While it’s important to be heartfelt, keeping your acknowledgments professional and to the point is crucial. The language should be formal yet warm and should directly state the nature of the help or support received.

7. Review and Revise

Review your acknowledgment to ensure you haven’t missed anyone significant. It’s also a good practice to have someone else read it to catch any overlooked errors or omissions.

8. Final Placement

Typically, the acknowledgment is placed after the abstract and before the table of contents in your project report . Ensure it is visible and formatted according to the rest of your document .

Acknowledgement for Project Do’s and Don’ts

Crafting an acknowledgment for a project requires a balance of professionalism and gratitude. Below are key do’s and don’ts to consider when writing this important section of your project documentation.

  • Express genuine gratitude and specify how each person or entity contributed to your project. General statements can seem insincere.
  • Keep the language formal yet warm. This section, while personal, is still part of an academic or professional document.
  • Prioritize those who had the most impact on your project, typically starting with academic advisors or supervisors and ending with personal acknowledgments.
  • While it’s important to be thorough, avoid overly lengthy descriptions. Keep your acknowledgments concise and to the point.
  • Like any part of your project, the acknowledgment should be free from grammatical and spelling errors. A well-edited acknowledgment reflects your attention to detail.

Don’ts

  • Even if you are close to those you are thanking, avoid colloquialisms and slang. Maintain a professional level of decorum.
  • Failing to acknowledge key supporters can be seen as a slight. Make sure you thoroughly review who has supported your project and ensure they are recognized.
  • While you should be appreciative, excessive praise can come off as insincere or unprofessional.
  • Humor can be misinterpreted in professional documents. Keep the tone respectful and straightforward.
  • The acknowledgment section is not the place for personal stories or confessions about your struggles during the project. Keep the focus on gratitude towards contributors.

Samples of Acknowledgement for Project

Creating an effective acknowledgment section in your project documentation can set a professional and appreciative tone. Here are sample acknowledgments that you can adapt based on your specific needs:

Sample 1: Academic Thesis

“I would like to express my deepest appreciation to my supervisor, Professor Jane Smith, for her unwavering support and guidance throughout the duration of this thesis . Her expertise and insights were invaluable to the completion of this research. I also wish to thank the members of the Biology Department for their helpful comments and suggestions. A special thanks goes to my peers and family for their encouragement and understanding.”

Sample 2: School Project

“I am grateful to Mr. John Doe, my science teacher, for his assistance and the knowledge he shared that greatly aided the completion of this project. I also appreciate my classmates for their collaboration and my family for their encouragement and support throughout this process.”

Sample 3: Engineering Project

“This project could not have been accomplished without the support of our project mentor, Dr. Emily Taylor, whose guidance from the initial to the final level enabled me to develop an understanding of the subject. My sincere thanks also go to the technical staff of the Engineering Workshop for their help and insights in keeping my project on schedule.”

Sample 4: Community Service Project

“I would like to thank the Community Service Office, particularly Mrs. Laura Green, for the opportunity to work on this meaningful project. Her guidance was crucial to our success. I am also thankful for the enthusiastic participation of my teammates and the support from the local community, which was vital for our project’s impact.”

Sample 5: Business Research Project

“My profound gratitude goes to my advisor, Mr. Robert Miles, for his expert advice and continuous engagement with the project. Thanks are also due to my colleagues at ABC Corporation for their assistance in gathering essential data and to my family for their patience and unwavering support throughout the duration of this project.”

Acknowledgement Sample for University Project

“I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to my project supervisor, Dr. Helen Foster, for her invaluable guidance and persistent encouragement throughout the course of this project. Her expertise and thoughtful advice have been crucial in shaping both the direction and the execution of this research. I am also thankful to the faculty of the Economics Department for their insightful feedback and supportive environment. Special appreciation goes to my peers in the research group, especially Mark Thompson and Sarah Lee, whose collaborative spirit and rigorous debate added greatly to my own understanding and refinement of the project. I also wish to acknowledge the financial support received from the University’s Research Grant Program, which was instrumental in facilitating my work. Lastly, my heartfelt thanks to my family for their understanding and support amidst the many hours dedicated to this project. Their encouragement has been a constant source of strength and motivation. This project would not have been possible without the contributions of each of these individuals and groups, and I am immensely grateful for their support.”

Acknowledgement for School project

“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my project advisor, Mrs. Lisa Carter, for her continuous support and invaluable guidance throughout this project. Her expertise and patience have greatly contributed to my understanding of the subject matter. Special thanks also go to my classmates, especially John Smith and Emily White, for their insights and assistance in gathering necessary data and materials. Their collaboration was essential to the success of this project. Additionally, I am thankful to the staff at our school library for their assistance in providing the resources needed to complete my research. I also appreciate the support and encouragement from my family, who motivated me throughout the project process. This project would not have been possible without the contributions and support of everyone mentioned, and I am deeply grateful for their help.”

Acknowledgement For College Project

“I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to Professor Jane Anderson for her expert guidance and invaluable advice throughout the duration of this project. Her patience and knowledge were crucial in helping navigate the complexities of our research topic. I am also grateful to my project teammates, Alex Martinez, Riya Singh, and Jordan Lee, for their hard work, commitment, and cooperation. Our regular discussions and mutual support were essential for the successful completion of our project. Special thanks go to the technical support team at the college lab, whose assistance with the software and hardware made our data analysis possible. I would also like to acknowledge the financial support provided by the College of Business and Economics, which enabled us to access essential resources and materials. Lastly, my appreciation extends to my family and friends for their understanding and encouragement throughout this challenging but rewarding endeavor. This project has not only been a significant academic undertaking but also a deeply enriching experience, thanks to the support of everyone involved.”

Acknowledgement for Business Studies project

“I am immensely grateful to my business studies teacher, Mr. Robert Harris, for his guidance and support throughout the development of this project. His insights into business strategy and management were invaluable and greatly enhanced the quality of my work. I would also like to thank my project group members, Anna Lee, Michael Johnson, and Sarah Ford, for their collaboration and dedication. Their perspectives and contributions were crucial in achieving a comprehensive analysis and understanding of our case study. A special acknowledgment goes to the guest lecturers from the local business community who provided us with real-world examples and enriched our discussions with their practical knowledge. Additionally, my gratitude extends to my parents and family for their patience and encouragement, which were a great source of motivation during challenging phases of the project. Lastly, thanks to the school administration for providing the facilities and resources that helped us conduct our research effectively. This project has been a significant part of my learning journey, and I appreciate everyone who played a part in it.”

Acknowledgement for Group Project

“I extend my deepest gratitude to our project advisor, Dr. Emily Thompson, for her invaluable guidance and support throughout this group project. Her expertise and feedback were crucial in directing our research and refining our final outputs. Special thanks are due to each of my team members: Michael Green, Sara Kim, and Joshua Lee. Their dedication, insight, and hard work were integral to the success of our project. Collaborating with them was not only educational but also immensely enjoyable. I would also like to acknowledge our department’s administrative staff, who facilitated our project logistics and provided essential support with scheduling and resources. Our appreciation also goes to the peers who participated in our surveys and interviews, providing the critical data needed for our analysis. Lastly, I am grateful for the constant encouragement and support from our families and friends, who helped us stay motivated and focused throughout the duration of the project. This project was a collective effort, and its success is a reflection of the hard work and commitment of everyone involved.”

What is Acknowledgement in an Assignment?

Acknowledgment in an assignment is a section where the writer expresses gratitude towards those who contributed to the completion of the work. This includes thanking mentors, peers, and family for their support, advice, or resources, highlighting their role in facilitating the project’s success.

What is the Basic Acknowledgement Statement?

A basic acknowledgment statement typically reads: “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to [Name] for their invaluable support and guidance throughout the completion of this project, without which this would not have been possible.”

How to write an Acknowledgement in a Law Project?

To write an acknowledgment in a law project, start by thanking your supervisor or professor for their guidance. Acknowledge any legal professionals or mentors who provided insights, and mention peers or legal aides who assisted in research. Finally, express gratitude to family or friends for their support. Keep it formal, concise, and focused on professional contributions.

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COMMENTS

  1. Thesis & Dissertation Acknowledgements

    Family, friends, or pets; Typically, it's only necessary to mention people who directly supported you during your thesis or dissertation. However, if you feel that someone like a high school physics teacher was a great inspiration on the path to your current research, feel free to include them as well. Professional acknowledgements

  2. Thesis Acknowledgements Examples

    This acknowledgement warmly credits the emotional and personal support received from family, friends and an approachable mentor during the research process. This thesis is a reflection of the unwavering support and boundless love I received from my family and friends during this challenging academic pursuit.

  3. Thesis Acknowledgements: Free Template With Examples

    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.

  4. Crafting the Perfect Thesis Acknowledgement: Tips and Examples

    Take the time to reflect on the unique aspects of your mentorship experience when crafting this section of your thesis. Acknowledgement for Family Support. ... You can express gratitude to family members, friends, or anyone else who provided personal support or encouragement. However, maintain a professional tone and keep the focus on how they ...

  5. How to write acknowledgements in a thesis or dissertation

    10. "The completion of this thesis or dissertation is the culmination of efforts from various individuals whom I would like to express my sincere appreciation.". 11. "This thesis acknowledgement section is an opportunity to give thanks to those who made this journey less daunting.". 12.

  6. Acknowledgement for Thesis (10 Samples and Writing Tips)

    Best Acknowledgement for Thesis Samples. In this article, you'll find ten meticulously crafted thesis acknowledgment examples, showcasing diverse styles and sentiments to help inspire your own. Whether it's mentors, family, or colleagues, you'll discover the perfect way to convey your gratitude. Acknowledgement Sample for Thesis

  7. Acknowledgements for Thesis and Dissertations with Examples

    Example 2. I would like to thank my supervisors Dr. XXX and Dr. XXX for all their help and advice with this PhD. I would also like to thank my sisters, whom without this would have not been possible. I also appreciate all the support I received from the rest of my family. Lastly, I would like to thank the XXX for the studentship that allowed me ...

  8. Dissertation acknowledgments [with examples]

    Here are some good examples to help you get started: Example 1. I couldn't have reached this goal without the help of many people in my life. I'd like to take this opportunity to thank them for their support. First, my sincere thanks to my dissertation committee. The value of their guidance cannot be overstated. Dr.

  9. Thesis acknowledgements: Samples and how to write your own thesis or

    My labmate's thesis, who wrote the acknowledgements in a different style to the rest by using bullet points. Dr Wei's thesis, acknowledgements on page 6. Direct download here. Shortest acknowledgements section of the list at 122 words. Dr Manca's thesis, acknowledgements on page 5. Direct download here.

  10. How to write a unique thesis acknowledgement (+ FAQs)

    PhD thesis acknowledgements, on the other hand, tend to be longer, given the extended duration of PhD research. The average length for a PhD thesis acknowledgement ranges from 250 to 1000 words, or approximately half a page to 2 pages. In short: Bachelor's theses: usually 100-250 words. Master's theses: usually 100-350 words.

  11. Dissertation/Thesis Acknowledgements Template (Word Doc)

    Overview: Acknowledgements Template. This template provides a basic structure for the acknowledgements section of a typical dissertation, thesis or research project. In line with academic best practice, the acknowledgements are structured from most formal (supervisor, committee, etc.) to least formal (family and friends). Each section has easy ...

  12. How to Write Acknowledgements for a Thesis

    Even if you feel like your family and friends were crucial to the successful completion of your thesis, it's customary to leave your personal acknowledgements to the end of the section. Even though the acknowledgements can be written in a more casual tone, they are still part of your thesis and therefore, are part of an academic work.

  13. PDF WRITING ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: Saying "Thank You"

    support. Of course, they are often parents, spouses, friends, and colleagues—all of those who supported your effort. What you need is a great list of vocabulary and phrases that you can use so that your acknowledgements do not sound redundant, boring, or awkward. So here it is. Very strong thanks (save these for the people who helped you the ...

  14. 6 Best Master Thesis Acknowledgement Samples

    How to write acknowledgement for master thesis. When writing an acknowledgment for your master's thesis, consider these steps: Identify Key Contributors: Start by acknowledging the individuals or entities who played a significant role in your master's thesis work. This could include your advisor, committee members, peers, family, friends, and any organizations or institutions that ...

  15. Dissertation Acknowledgements: A Comprehensive Guide

    Dissertation Acknowledgements Examples. Example 1. I extend my deepest appreciation to my dissertation supervisor, Dr. Smith, for their invaluable guidance, unwavering support, and constructive feedback throughout every stage of this research journey. Example 2. Special thanks to my family, whose encouragement and understanding provided the ...

  16. Acknowledgement For Thesis

    Example 1: Acknowledgement. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to my advisor, [Name], for the continuous support of my research and for being a great mentor. I am truly grateful for all the time, effort, and resources they have invested in me and my project. I would also like to thank my committee members [names], for their invaluable ...

  17. Acknowledgements

    Acknowledgements I would like to acknowledge my family for their enduring support of me during my doctoral work and my dissertation. My husband, Willie Lyons, never asked me to stop working or even how long I planned to work; he simply did the dishes or folded the laundry without question.

  18. 14 Dissertation Acknowledgements Examples

    Here are 14 dissertation acknowledgements examples to inspire you. They cover a range of academic subjects and are all from UK students. Note how they vary in length, style and substance. Note - all samples have been taken from documents available in the public realm. Remember to always keep your acknowledgements to a maximum of a page.

  19. PDF Acknowledgements

    I cannot forget friends who went through hard times together, cheered me on, and celebrated each accomplishment: Daegun Gavin Kim, Dr. Seokgoo Song and his family, and Dr. Kideok Kwon. I would like to express my gratitude to my parents-in-law Kim Sungyong and Park Sunjoo for their unfailing emotional support. I also thank for heart-warming kindness

  20. Thesis & Dissertation Acknowledgements

    Family, friends, or pets; Typically, it's only necessary to mention people who directly supported you during your thesis or dissertation. However, if you feel that someone like a secondary school physics teacher was a great inspiration on the path to your current research, feel free to include them as well. Professional acknowledgements

  21. 15+ Samples of Acknowledgement for Thesis and Dissertation

    Thesis Acknowledgement Samples - Sample 17. My first and big appreciation goes to my first supervisor, Prof Habin Lee, for his marvelous supervision, guidance and encouragement. Sincere gratitude is extended to his generous participation in guiding, constructive feedback, kind support, and advice during my PhD.

  22. PDF Pellegrino Dissertation Final

    ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS This journey would not have been possible without the support of my family, professors and mentors, and friends. To my family, thank you for encouraging me in all of my pursuits and inspiring me to follow my dreams. I am especially grateful to my parents, who supported me emotionally and financially. I always knew that you believed

  23. The Harvard Crimson

    Cabot Cafe's Iced Matcha. (Although they ran out of matcha for a bit, which definitely was a rough period for me). Harvard Center for the Environment Free Espresso. Made even better when extra ...

  24. Acknowledgement for Project

    A thank you to these individuals shows your appreciation for their personal support. 5. Mention Family Members. It's common to acknowledge family members who have provided emotional or financial support throughout your project. Personalizing this section adds a heartfelt touch to your acknowledgment. 6.