how to thank your dissertation supervisor

Is it weird to get your dissertation supervisor a thank-you gift?

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Sending an email of thanks to my dissertation supervisor?

Hi all, I finished my undergrad recently and was wondering if it would be weird or unusual to send an email to my supervisor saying thank you for all the support she gave me over my final year. I don't know if it would be weird since I assume her staff email is for academic purposes only. Any professors here had similar situations? Do you have any advice you can offer me? I really just want to show my gratitude, she helped me out so much.

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Sample emails to your thesis supervisor

A good thesis requires good communication between you and your thesis supervisor. This includes emails! Yet, even a simple email can lead to stress and overthinking. If you struggle to communicate with your thesis supervisor via email, have a look at six sample emails for inspiration.

General tips for emailing your thesis supervisor

Every relationship between student and thesis supervisor is unique. And everyone has a unique (email) writing style.

Sample email to thesis supervisor inquiring about potential supervision

The first email to a potential thesis supervisor tends to be very formal. If you have never met the potential thesis supervisor in person before, make sure to check out tips on how to cold-email professors. In the following sample email, however, we assume that the student and the potential thesis supervisor met before.

Sample email to thesis supervisor setting up a meeting

Sample email to thesis supervisor sharing post-meeting action points

To get the most out of thesis supervision meetings , it is highly recommended that the student takes notes during the meeting. Based on these notes, the student then summarises the key takeaways from the meeting, or action points, so to speak. These action points will guide the student’s work until the next meeting, and provide a written record of agreements.

Sample email to thesis supervisor asking for feedback

Sample email to thesis supervisor asking for support

Sample email to thesis supervisor when not meeting a deadline.

And lastly, there are the unfortunate occasions where you made agreements with your thesis supervisor, which you cannot meet. Pulling an all-nighter is generally a bad idea, as sleep is crucial for efficient thesis writing . It might be smarter, to be honest, and open about it and to inform your thesis advisor in advance. In the following sample email, the student informs the supervisor that he cannot meet the agreed deadline.

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Guide: How to Say Thank You to Your PhD Supervisor

Completing a doctoral degree is an incredible achievement, and your PhD supervisor has played a crucial role in guiding you through this challenging journey. Expressing your gratitude towards your supervisor is not only polite but also helps nurture a long-lasting professional relationship. In this guide, we will explore various ways to say thank you to your PhD supervisor, both formally and informally. Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

Formal Ways to Say Thank You

Sending a formal thank you message or letter to your PhD supervisor is a thoughtful gesture that shows your gratitude for their guidance and support. Here are some tips for writing a formal thank you:

• Be sincere: Start by expressing your genuine appreciation for their help and insights during your doctoral journey.
• Highlight specific contributions: Mention the specific ways your supervisor aided your research, whether it was through funding, advice, or reviewing your work.
• Mention personal growth: Reflect upon how their mentorship has contributed to your personal growth as a researcher and professional in your field.
• Show gratitude for their time and effort: Acknowledge the countless hours spent providing feedback, attending meetings, and supporting your research.
• Offer to stay in touch: Convey your interest in maintaining a professional relationship and using their continued guidance in the future.

Example of a formal thank you email:

Dear [Supervisor’s Name], I am writing to express my sincerest gratitude for your invaluable guidance and unwavering support throughout my doctoral journey. Your expertise and mentorship have been instrumental in shaping my research and helping me achieve this significant milestone. I greatly appreciate the time and effort you devoted to providing constructive feedback on my work, attending numerous meetings, and offering invaluable insights that significantly enhanced the quality of my research. Not only have you fostered my academic growth, but your guidance has also influenced my personal development as a researcher. Your dedication to nurturing young scholars like myself is truly inspiring. I would love to stay connected and continue learning from your expertise in the future, as I believe your mentorship will be invaluable as I embark on the next phase of my career. Again, thank you for your exceptional guidance and support throughout. It has been an honor to be your student. Wishing you good health and continued success. Warm regards, [Your Name]

Informal Ways to Say Thank You

While formal messages are appreciated, expressing your gratitude in an informal manner can create a more personal connection with your PhD supervisor. Here are some tips for conveying your thanks in a less formal manner:

• Engage in a face-to-face conversation: Arrange a meeting with your supervisor to express your gratitude in person. This can be an opportunity for a heartfelt conversation.
• Express genuine emotions: Be authentic and express how grateful you are for their guidance and mentorship. Share anecdotes or specific moments that made a significant impact on your research journey.
• Offer a personal token of appreciation: Consider small gestures like a handwritten note, a meaningful book, or a personalized gift that reflects your supervisor’s interests or hobbies.
• Invite them to celebratory events: If appropriate, extend an invitation to any graduation ceremony or other events that mark the completion of your doctoral degree.

Example of an informal thank you conversation:

[Student]: Hey, [Supervisor’s Name]! I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt thanks for everything you’ve done throughout my PhD journey. Your guidance and support have made a tremendous difference, and I cannot thank you enough. [Supervisor]: Thank you, [Your Name]. It’s been a pleasure mentoring you. Is there anything specific that you found particularly helpful? [Student]: Definitely! I truly appreciate the valuable feedback you provided during our weekly meetings. Your insights and expertise always pushed me to think outside the box, resulting in a research project that I am incredibly proud of. [Supervisor]: I’m glad to hear that. It was a pleasure working with you, and your dedication to your research made a significant impact. I have no doubt that you will achieve great things in your future endeavors. [Student]: Thank you for believing in me and for your continuous support. Your mentorship has not only shaped my academic journey but also inspired me to become a better researcher. I am forever grateful. [Supervisor]: You’re most welcome, [Your Name]. It’s been a pleasure being your supervisor. Remember, I’m here to support you even after you complete your PhD. Let’s keep in touch and continue this professional relationship. [Student]: Absolutely! I would love to stay connected. Thanks again, [Supervisor’s Name]. You’re the best!

Final Thoughts

Expressing your gratitude towards your PhD supervisor is essential in recognizing their efforts and maintaining a positive professional relationship. Whether you choose a formal written message or an informal heartfelt conversation, remember to be sincere, specific, and appreciative of their time and guidance. Your kind words and gratitude will undoubtedly be cherished by your supervisor for years to come.

Remember, completing a PhD is just the beginning of your journey, and your PhD supervisor’s mentorship can prove invaluable as you navigate future academic or professional milestones. So, take a moment to say thank you in a way that resonates with you and, most importantly, makes your supervisor feel appreciated.

Related Guides:

• Guide: How to Say No to a PhD Supervisor
• Guide: How to Say Congratulations for PhD
• How to Say PhD in Italian
• How to Say PhD in Japanese: Formal and Informal Ways, Tips, and Examples
• Guide on How to Say PhD in Korean
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How do you thank a thesis supervisor?

Table of Contents

• 1 How do you thank a thesis supervisor?
• 2 How do you thank a professor in thesis?
• 3 How do you write an Acknowledgement for a thesis?
• 4 How do you email a thesis committee?
• 5 How do you write a thank you letter to a university professor?
• 6 How do you send a thesis email?
• 7 How do you express gratitude in Acknowledgement?

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.

How do you thank a professor in thesis?

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.

How do you thank a research advisor?

“Thank you so much for being an incredible advisor and an incredible listener. You constantly help me put things into perspective and prepare me for great things in the future. Thank you!”

How do you write an Acknowledgement for a thesis?

6 tips for writing your thesis acknowledgements

• Use the right tone. Friendly but formal.
• Thank the most important people. Think of your supervisors, colleagues, fellow PhD’s and respondents.
• Thank various organizations.
• Mention all other parties.
• End with your personal word of thanks.
• What to do if you do not want to thank?

How do you email a thesis committee?

01Dear [Name of student], My name is [your name] from [faculty] at [college name]. I am currently writing a thesis entitled [title of your thesis]. Thanks to your outstanding track record and interest in helping other students, I would like to humbly request that you be a member of my thesis committee.

How do you acknowledge a teacher in thesis?

I would like to express my special thanks of gratitude to my teacher (Name of the teacher) as well as our principal (Name of the principal)who gave me the golden opportunity to do this wonderful project on the topic (Write the topic name), which also helped me in doing a lot of Research and i came to know about so many …

How do you write a thank you letter to a university professor?

Steps for Writing the Best Thank You Note for Your Professor

• Start and end with appropriate salutations.
• Open by saying thank you.
• Include a quote.
• Give more specific details.
• Be positive.
• Be sincere.
• Keep it short and sweet.

How do you send a thesis email?

Your email should:

• have an informative subject line.
• be concise.
• be formal: Dear Dr. Smith; Sincerely, Your Name.
• not use Mrs. or Ms.
• NOT have slang, abbreviations, or emoticons.
• if applying for an opening: address any qualifications the professor is looking for.
• if asking for a research opportunity:

How do you respond to a thank you email from a professor?

The samples:

• Thank you for your immediate response.
• We received your email and want to thank you for your quick reply!
• Thank you for your quick response.
• I am thankful for your timely feedback as it helps us keep the project on schedule.
• Thank you for replying quickly!
• Thank you for your timely response!

How do you express gratitude in Acknowledgement?

Expressing gratitude

• I am deeply grateful to someone.
• I am indebt to someone.
• I want to thank someone.
• I would (particularly) like to thank someone.
• I would like to express my gratitude to someone.
• I would like to express the deepest appreciation to someone.
• My deepest [heartfelt] appreciation goes to someone.

Privacy Overview

Treat your supervisor right!

How does a thesis look from the other side? This guest post is written by Dr Kristin Natalier , a qualitative researcher and senior lecturer in the School of Sociology and Social Work, University of Tasmania. If you catch her on a good day Kris will admit she actually quite likes working with research students on their projects. In this post Kristin sets out her manifesto for treating your supervisor right!

Supervisors can be difficult.  We can be eccentric. We can be tetchy. We can lose your drafts and forget to give you feedback. Sometimes we don’t treat you right. But it’s not all a one way street – sometimes you treat us bad, too. Here are some questions to ponder …

Do you roll your eyes when your supervisor offers advice?

Supervisors know stuff. We have spent years as high achieving undergraduates, postgraduates and then academics finding out about stuff. We were employed by our institution because we know about stuff. Some of that stuff will be relevant to your research.

Even if you are working with someone who’s not an expert in your specific topic, they will have something worthwhile to offer you.  Academics ‘get’ their discipline:  we have a working knowledge of its parameters, debates, what’s hot and what’s not. If you have been thinking ‘class’ and your supervisor says ‘what about gender’? , don’t presume they have no idea.  Follow it up: ask questions then or go away, do some reading and some thinking. You don’t have to agree but you do need to engage with the possibilities of the suggestion. Discount the advice out of hand simply because it doesn’t obviously fit with your vision. The mind of a trained academic can be fiendishly subtle…

Thinking about advice is also important when it comes to comments on your written work, especially thesis chapters. If a supervisor asks you to do something, do it or explain why you haven’t. Ignoring it won’t make it go away – it just leads your supervisor to wonder if you are recalcitrant, can’t read, or are just not very clever.

Do you presume your supervisor has poor comprehension skills?

We don’t. We’ve made a career reading and writing in ways that are appropriate to our – and your – discipline. So if we write ‘I don’t understand what you are trying to get at here’, presume it’s because you aren’t writing clearly.  It’s not because we don’t understand sophisticated ideas or specialised language. It’s because you don’t write clearly and effectively – and we’re doing you a big favour pointing that out before some pissed off reviewer does.

Do you act as if your supervisor has world enough and time?

We don’t. You’re likely one of many research students and definitely one of many obligations.  Being late for meetings – or worse, not turning up – are obviously egregious behaviours. Most dodgy practices are a little more subtle, based on the presumably unexamined presumption that when you’re not with us, we while away the hours on Facebook and ebay.  These practices include unrealistic expectations for turn around times on submitted work, expecting instant access when forms need to be signed, ‘just dropping in’, and replying to a request for a meeting one week later and one day before the suggested date (our dance card will then be full).

Do you follow the letter of the law but not its spirit?

When you agree to deliver a draft to your supervisor on Friday, do it right.  A draft is a complete and relatively coherent piece of work, written in sentences and proof read. It doesn’t include notes to yourself or questions to your supervisor (‘Should I discuss Said here?’), there are no missing sections (‘feminist critique of individualisation to go here’), the font is all the same size and style, you have referenced your work and provided a reference list.  Friday means close of business Friday and preferably earlier (hey, it’s Friday), not 11.58pm… or 8.58 am on Monday.

Do you act as though your supervisor is your support staff?

Supervisors have been employed for their disciplinary expertise.  We are not paid to: print out your 357 page thesis draft sent via email, photocopy it and pass the copies to the rest of the team; line edit your work; correct your systematic and yet never predictable misuse of semi-colons; find forms on the University website; remind you of important dates relating to your candidature; provide a reading list of foundational texts in your field. In short, we are not your secretary, editor or research assistant.

Do you hide things from your supervisor?

Please don’t. We don’t need or want to know most details about your life but we can’t work with you to develop your research if we are missing key information about your circumstances.  This information includes: any illness that is difficult to manage and may affect your thesis work; significant life events or commitments that may affect your thesis work; problems with the design and implementation of your project; skills you don’t have but need to have.  Knowing about this issue will shape what we can expect from you, how we will support you, and how we advocate for your interests to the institution.

Do you say thank you?

For many of us, supervision is the very definition of a thankless task. Being listed halfway through the thesis acknowledgements is a pretty small payoff for over three years of effort.  Saying ‘thank you’ at the end of a meeting or when your supervisor has commented on your work is a nice touch, even if it is only common politeness.  Even classier: delivering your supervisor their crutch of choice (chocolate, coffee, moonshine) when you plonk the first full draft of your thesis on their desk. Those suckers can be rough to read.

Thesis writers feel mad, sad and bad in response to their supervisors’ behaviours. But supervisors have feelings too. More than feelings, we have professional expertise and authority. And we write references for our graduate students. If you don’t communicate well, find it difficult to work with others, fail to meet deadlines, present poor quality work and struggle to be flexible in your thinking … well, how’s that reference going to read?

Related posts

5 ways to make your supervisor happy

How to ask your supervisor for a divorce

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Thanking PhD supervisors

Hi everyone, I have been awarded my PhD and wanted some advice on how to thank my supervisors. Generally, I would have given them a handwritten thank you card and a small gift to accompany it. However, my department is still working from home and I do not think I will be able to see my supervisors in person until September at the earliest. I also do not have an option to drop-off anything at their office for them to collect later. Any ideas on how I can show my appreciation? I have thanked them via email (small paragraphs) at various stages (so submission, post-viva, approval of corrections etc.) so at this point I am also a bit apprehensive of sounding like a broken record! Especially if it’s yet another message. I considered sending an e-card but have noticed in the past that they can sometimes seem like spam emails at first glance so don’t really want to use that option. Any thoughts or ideas on what I can do are much appreciated. Thank you :-)

Really anything will be surprising and appreciated. I've supervised 6 completions and the most I've ever got gift-wise was a post viva hug or *maybe* a pint... but I still had to get the next round in... ;) Of course though as a supervisor you're not in it for a good bottle of wine (you can steal those from the Dean's office). You're partly in it for the warm fuzzy feeling of having helped someone. You're professionally in it in the hopes the student will go on to have a stellar academic career and be inviting you, when it's appropriate, to co-author publications or apply for grants. The best thank-you message might well be along the lines of 'I'm working on that final journal output, can you have a quick glance as co-author...' :)

Quote From abababa: Really anything will be surprising and appreciated. I've supervised 6 completions and the most I've ever got gift-wise was a post viva hug or *maybe* a pint... but I still had to get the next round in... ;) Of course though as a supervisor you're not in it for a good bottle of wine (you can steal those from the Dean's office). You're partly in it for the warm fuzzy feeling of having helped someone. You're professionally in it in the hopes the student will go on to have a stellar academic career and be inviting you, when it's appropriate, to co-author publications or apply for grants. The best thank-you message might well be along the lines of 'I'm working on that final journal output, can you have a quick glance as co-author...' :) Thanks abababa! I was stressing quite a bit trying to work out what to do so your reply is very helpful :-) And supervisors like you are a gem! Mine have been amazing throughout and it made all the difference with my work (and mental health!)

My exact predicament a couple of weeks ago. In the end I decided to send her a high quality leather bound copy of my thesis. She was very pleased.

Bob86, that sounds like a good gift! In the end I decided to give both my supervisors a nice box of chocolates and an engraved pen as a small appreciative gesture. Currently waiting for the items to be delivered to me. May I ask how you got the copy of your thesis across to your supervisor? My department is closed so I’m not sure how to actually get the items to my supervisors!

User5 - that's nice, I'm sure your supervisors will appreciate that :) I asked my supervisor for her home address and posted it to her via Royal Mail special delivery.

Bob85 thanks! I was thinking about asking them for their home address but wasn’t sure if that would be too personal. I will do so now though :-D

Quote From User5: Bob85 thanks! I was thinking about asking them for their home address but wasn’t sure if that would be too personal. I will do so now though :-D No probs! If you're wary of asking for a home address simply omit 'home' from your request then its open to interpretation, i.e., work/home address.

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How should I write thank you letters to members on my thesis comittee?

I have just completed a graduate degree and want to thank the members of my thesis committee for their support. I have just sent a thank you email to my supervisor and advisors but, I am not sure what I should write for the other members. My questions are as follows:

• Are there any sample templates I can follow? Yes, I will customize for each person, but I find that if I have a good baseline my writing is improved.
• What are good things that I should be thankful for? I feel that good thank you letters provide some specific examples on what people did to help you. However, the only thing these people did was examine me. Some did not provide a lot of comments. Being on a examination committee is more work for over worked professors, but I am having trouble coming up with good points.
• All of the professors on the committee are from Canadian universities.
• If you have any questions feel free to ask.
• thesis-committee

• 2 Must you thank them? Being on committees is just part of the job. If you have no previous relationship with the people who sat on the committee then don’t you think it will be obvious that your “thank you” letter will not be genuinely written and thereby not genuinely received? Particularly if you’re trying to find hollow points to be thankful for, it could be better to just not write anything at all and move forward. –  GrayLiterature Commented May 7, 2020 at 19:31
• Furthermore, thanking anybody whose role was to examine you can be perceived as ethically dubious. (Are you thanking them because they softballed you?) –  TimRias Commented May 7, 2020 at 20:02

Instead of a letter, thank them in the 'Acknowledgements' section of your thesis

You can thank your supervisors for guiding you in the course of writing the thesis.

You can thank your examiners for giving helpful feedback that led to improvements in your work (you can do this even if the examiners are anonymous -- it is not unusual for published academic work to thank anonymous peer reviewers for helpful suggestions).

If a specific comment/lead/idea was particularly useful, you can mention it. If one or more supervisors or examiners helped you on the road to publication, mention it.

An example might read like this (feel free to adapt nomenclature to local context and customise with more detail):

I would like to thank my supervisors, Dr Josephine Bloggs and Dr A.N. Other, both of the Department of Futile Studies, for their support and guidance over several years. I am particularly grateful for their detailed advice and encouragement on how to adapt Chapter 4 of this thesis for publication in The Journal of the Royal Society for the Furtherance of Futile Studies . I would like to thank my examiners, Prof. Isaac Newton and Prof. Immanuel Kant for engaging with my thesis diligently and enthusiastically, providing valuable suggestions: in particular, they helped me clarify my theory on 'The Noumenality of Lincolnshire apples during the plague'. Finally, I would like to thank the lay convenor for my thesis committee, Mr Charles Dickens, senior secretary of the Department of Circumlocution, for his exemplary efficiency in conducting the examination of the thesis.

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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.

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

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

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

Acknowledgement samples for thesis – sample 13, 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

Acknowledgement samples for thesis – sample 16, 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

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

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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Acknowledgement for Thesis (10 Samples and Writing Tips)

October 22, 2023

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By Mohsin Khurshid

Acknowledging those who contributed to your thesis is a gracious gesture, reflecting your appreciation for their support, both moral and material. This article delves into the art of crafting a meaningful acknowledgment in your thesis, highlighting its importance, and offering valuable samples.

Table of Contents

• 1 Tips on Writing Acknowledgement for Thesis
• 2.1 Acknowledgement Sample for Thesis
• 2.2 Acknowledgement for Thesis Submission
• 2.3 Acknowledgement for Thesis Report
• 2.4 Beautiful Thesis Acknowledgement
• 2.5 Acknowledging God in Thesis
• 2.6 Funny Thesis Acknowledgement
• 2.7 Acknowledgement in Thesis Writing
• 2.8 Thesis Acknowledgement Sample
• 2.9 Example of Acknowledgement in Thesis
• 2.10 Sample Acknowledgement Letter for Thesis
• 4 Conclusion

Tips on Writing Acknowledgement for Thesis

• Sincerity is Key: Ensure your acknowledgment reflects genuine gratitude.
• Be Specific: Mention names and their roles clearly.
• Professional Tone: Maintain a formal but heartfelt tone.
• Brevity Matters: Keep it concise, focusing on key contributors.

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

I extend my sincere appreciation to everyone who played a role in guiding and supporting me throughout this thesis journey. I owe a special debt of gratitude to my thesis supervisor, Dr. [Supervisor’s Name], whose invaluable insights and guidance were instrumental in shaping this work. Their unwavering dedication to academic excellence was a constant source of motivation.

I must also express my heartfelt thanks to my family and friends who provided me with unwavering emotional support during the ups and downs of this project. Your unwavering belief in me, along with constructive feedback, was essential in navigating the challenges that arose throughout the process.

Acknowledgement for Thesis Submission

As I submit this thesis, it’s only fitting to express my heartfelt gratitude to those who contributed to its realization. My deepest thanks to my thesis advisor, [Advisor’s Name], whose expert guidance and unwavering support made this journey possible. Their dedication to nurturing academic excellence inspired me throughout.

I’m also indebted to my family and friends for the unwavering encouragement and emotional support they provided during this academic endeavor. Their steadfast belief in my abilities carried me through challenging times, and I am deeply appreciative of their contributions to my success.

Acknowledgement for Thesis Report

The completion of this thesis report is a significant milestone, and it wouldn’t have been attainable without the contributions of many. I am profoundly grateful to my thesis supervisor, Dr. [Supervisor’s Name], whose expertise and guidance were critical in the development of this work. Their unwavering commitment to scholarly excellence served as a constant source of inspiration.

I also wish to convey my appreciation to my family and friends for their enduring support and encouragement throughout this journey. Their belief in me provided the motivation to persevere during challenging periods, and I am truly thankful for their unwavering support.

Beautiful Thesis Acknowledgement

In this moment of achievement, it’s essential to express my gratitude to those who made this thesis journey beautiful. I extend my deepest appreciation to my thesis mentor, [Mentor’s Name], whose profound wisdom and continuous support have transformed my academic path. Their unwavering dedication to academic excellence was a shining example.

My heartfelt thanks go out to my family, friends, and loved ones, who have been a source of motivation and joy throughout this thesis project. Your unwavering belief in me, combined with your uplifting presence, painted this journey with beautiful colors and made it truly remarkable.

Acknowledging God in Thesis

As I complete this thesis, I wish to acknowledge the divine presence that guided me throughout this scholarly endeavor. My sincerest gratitude to the Almighty for granting me the strength, wisdom, and determination to bring this work to fruition. I acknowledge the blessings that have enabled me to pursue knowledge and produce this thesis.

Funny Thesis Acknowledgement

Completing this thesis was no easy feat, and I’d like to offer a lighthearted acknowledgment to those who contributed to the humor in this journey. My gratitude goes to my witty friends, who provided comic relief during stressful times, and my family, who managed to lighten the mood when needed. Laughter truly was the best medicine!

Acknowledgement in Thesis Writing

Acknowledging the completion of this thesis is a momentous task, and I want to express my appreciation for everyone who played a role. To begin, I’d like to thank my thesis advisor, [Advisor’s Name], whose expert guidance and patience were invaluable. Their wisdom and insights greatly contributed to the quality of this thesis.

I would also like to extend my gratitude to my colleagues and friends who offered support and encouragement. Their discussions and shared experiences enriched my work, and I’m grateful for their camaraderie.

Thesis Acknowledgement Sample

In writing this thesis, I’ve learned that acknowledgment is a fundamental part of scholarly work. With this sample, I aim to express my thanks to those who influenced and supported me. Firstly, I’m deeply indebted to my thesis supervisor, [Supervisor’s Name], whose unwavering commitment to research excellence has been a guiding light.

Additionally, I would like to acknowledge the contributions of my peers and the resources offered by the university. Their combined efforts have molded this thesis into what it is today.

Example of Acknowledgement in Thesis

For your reference, here’s an example of how acknowledgments can be included in a thesis. I am profoundly thankful to my thesis advisor, [Advisor’s Name], for their invaluable support and mentorship throughout this research journey. Their guidance was instrumental in shaping the research’s direction.

I also appreciate the guidance from my colleagues and the research resources that this institution provided. The synergy of all these factors, including my hard work and dedication, culminated in the completion of this thesis.

Sample Acknowledgement Letter for Thesis

Dear [Advisor’s Name],

I wish to extend my heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support and guidance throughout the completion of my thesis. Your expertise, patience, and commitment to academic excellence have been a cornerstone of my research journey. Your thoughtful feedback and constant encouragement have not only honed my skills but also enriched the quality of this thesis.

I’d also like to acknowledge the contributions of my fellow researchers and the resources provided by our institution. Their collaborative efforts and the wealth of research materials and opportunities available have significantly influenced the outcome of this thesis.

This acknowledgement extends to my family and friends, whose belief in my abilities and encouragement have provided the emotional sustenance needed to complete this challenging task. Their unwavering support has been my motivation.

With gratitude,

[Your Name]

How to Write Acknowledgement for Thesis?

Writing an acknowledgement for your thesis involves expressing gratitude to the individuals and institutions that supported your research. Start by acknowledging your primary thesis advisor, followed by other mentors, colleagues, and family. Keep it concise and heartfelt, focusing on the contributions and support they provided. Remember to include any funding sources or institutions that aided your research.

What to Put in Acknowledgement Section of Thesis?

In the acknowledgement section of your thesis, you should express gratitude to the people and organizations who contributed to your research. This includes your thesis advisor, mentors, colleagues, and family. Be sure to mention any funding sources, grants, or institutions that supported your work. Keep the acknowledgements concise and focus on the assistance, guidance, and encouragement you received during your research.

What Are Some Thesis Acknowledgement Quotes?

“I can no other answer make but thanks, and thanks, and ever thanks.” – William Shakespeare

“Gratitude is the fairest blossom which springs from the soul.” – Henry Ward Beecher

“Acknowledging the good that you already have in your life is the foundation for all abundance.” – Eckhart Tolle

“Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.” – William Arthur Ward

“In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.” – Martin Luther King Jr.

“Acknowledgment is the first step of paying it forward.” – Robert Bach

An acknowledgement of thesis is more than just a formality; it embodies your gratitude and appreciation. As you explore the samples and gather inspiration from the tips provided, remember that thanking those who’ve played a part in your academic journey is not only courteous but also profoundly meaningful.

Acknowledgement to God for Project and Thesis (5 Samples)

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How to write acknowledgements in a thesis or dissertation – FREE TEMPLATE

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.

The acknowledgement section allows you to express gratitude to those who contributed to your academic journey. Tradition dictates that you thank supervisors and professors first then 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.

Who to thank in your acknowledgements for your dissertation – a simple template

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

• funding bodies,
• Supervisors,
• Grad coaches,
• professors,
• proofreaders,
• and research participants.

Mention them using their full names and titles. It is also nice to add the reason you are thanking them and their specific contributions to your thesis and how they have helped your research over the course of your PhD.

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

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 template:

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.

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. In this section, you may also include acknowledgements for invaluable advice and personal support.

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 personal 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.

How Long Should My Acknowledgements Be In My Thesis or Dissertation?

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 In My PhD Thesis?

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:

If you are struggling with some ideas, here are some sentence starters that you can use for inspiration in your own acknowledgement section:

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 personal 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, whose invaluable advice was crucial.” 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 and invaluable advice 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 thesis and dissertation 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 dissertation 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. 

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.”

Acknowledgement Section for Your Thesis – FAQ

1. what is the purpose of the acknowledgement section in a thesis.

The acknowledgement section in a thesis serves the purpose of expressing gratitude to individuals and organizations who have assisted and supported you during the research and writing process.

How should I structure the acknowledgement section of my thesis?

The acknowledgement section usually comes after the main body of your research project and before the references . It typically includes a list of people who helped you along with a brief note of appreciation.

3. Can I use a free template for writing acknowledgements in my thesis?

While you can find free templates online to help structure your thesis acknowledgement , it is important to personalize your acknowledgements to truly express your gratitude.

4. Who should I thank in the acknowledgement section of my thesis?

In the acknowledgements section for your thesis , it is customary to thank your supervisor , committee members, family, friends, and any individuals or organizations who provided support and guidance during your research.

5. Are there any examples of thesis acknowledgements that I can refer to?

You can find thesis acknowledgement examples online to get an idea of how others have expressed their gratitude. However, make sure to write your acknowledgements in your own words.

6. How can I express my gratitude effectively in the acknowledgement section?

To express gratitude effectively in the acknowledgements section of your thesis , be specific about the contributions of each individual or group and highlight how their support was invaluable to your research.

7. Is it necessary to include personal acknowledgements in the thesis acknowledgement section?

While personal acknowledgements are not obligatory, it is common to include a note of appreciation to those who have supported you emotionally or personally throughout your academic journey.

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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How to thank your dissertation supervisor in acknowledgement?

How do you thank your supervisor in acknowledgement, how do you say thank you to supervisor for dissertation.

• Offer my special thanks to [full name - title]
• Express my sincere gratitude to [full name - title]
• Thank my supervisor/professor [full name]
• Pay my special regards to [full name]
• Deeply grateful to [full name]

How do you acknowledge a dissertation supervisor?

How do you express gratitude in acknowledgement, how to write acknowledgment in research paper sample | within 2 minutes.

How do you thank a professor in acknowledgements?

• Words cannot express my gratitude to my professor and chair of my committee for her invaluable patience and feedback. ...
• 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.

Who to thank in dissertation acknowledgements?

What do you say to your dissertation supervisor.

• Provide the academic with an overview about yourself – what you are studying, the research area or topic you are interested in and when you hope to start your thesis.
• Provide a brief statement about why you're interested in the topic or area and what you think you might bring to the project.

What is a good example of acknowledgement?

What are the acknowledgements of dissertation dedication, how do you write a letter of appreciation to a supervisor, how do you thank a supervisor for a good review, how do you acknowledge a project supervisor, how do you write a thank you acknowledgement email.

• Make the subject line concise and clear. Your email subject line defines if someone would open or ignore your email. ...
• Start with a formal introduction. ...
• Show appreciation and gratitude. ...
• Provide contact details. ...
• Conclude the email.

How do you thank someone for an acknowledgement email?

How do you write a phd acknowledgement.

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

What is an example of acknowledgement in academic paper?

What do you write after acknowledgement.

• Appreciate the sender. ...
• Be straightforward. ...
• Address the main point. ...
• Be timely. ...
• Maintain politeness. ...
• Offer your insights. ...
• Answer the questions. ...
• Involve the sender.

How do I thank a professor for choosing me as his PhD student?

What do you say to a phd supervisor, does your dissertation supervisor mark your dissertation, do we write thank you in acknowledgement, how do you thank a thesis advisor in acknowledgement, what is gratitude acknowledgement, how do you professionally thank a professor.

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• Knowledge Base
• Dissertation
• Thesis & Dissertation Acknowledgements | Tips & Examples

Thesis & Dissertation Acknowledgements | Tips & Examples

Published on May 3, 2022 by Tegan George . Revised on July 18, 2023.

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, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about the acknowledgements section.

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 defense 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 high 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 process, from figuring out your dissertation topic to your final proofread, 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 organization assisted you, mention the collective name only.
• Remember the ethical considerations around anonymized 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 anonymize 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

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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.

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 must acknowledge them, if only for a very brief thank you. If you do not include your supervisor, it may be seen as a snub.

The acknowledgements are generally included at the very beginning of your thesis , 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.

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

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