how to thank your dissertation supervisor

Reference management. Clean and simple.

Dissertation acknowledgments [with examples]

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.

The Acknowledgements Section

How to write the acknowledgements for your thesis or dissertation

By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewers: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | January 2024

Writing the acknowledgements section of your thesis might seem straightforward, but it’s more than just a list of names . In this post, we’ll unpack everything you need to know to write up a rock-solid acknowledgements section for your dissertation or thesis.

Overview: The Acknowledgements

• What (exactly) is the acknowledgements section?

Who should you acknowledge?

• How to write the section
• Practical example
• Free acknowledgements template
• Key takeaways

What is the acknowledgements section?

The acknowledgements section of your thesis or dissertation is where you give thanks to the people who contributed to your project’s success. Generally speaking, this is a relatively brief, less formal section.  

With the acknowledgements section, you have the opportunity to show appreciation for the guidance, support, and resources provided by others during your research journey. We’ll unpack the exact contents, order and structure of this section in this post.

Need a helping hand?

Although this is a less “academic” section, acknowledging the right people in the correct order is still important. Typically, you’ll start with the most formal (academic) support received, before moving on to other types of support.

Here’s a suggested order that you can follow when writing up your acknowledgements:

Level 1: Supervisors and academic staff

Start with those who have provided you with academic guidance, including your supervisor, advisors, and other faculty members.

Level 2: Funding bodies or sponsors

If your research was funded, acknowledging these organisations is essential. You don’t need to get into the specifics of the funding, but you should recognise the important role that this made in bringing your project to life.

Level 3: Colleagues and peers

Next you’ll want to mention those who contributed intellectually to your work, including your fellow cohort members and researchers.

Level 4: Family, friends and pets

Last but certainly not least, you should acknowledge your personal (non-academic) support system – those who have provided emotional and moral support. If Fido kept you company during those long nights hunched over the keyboard, you can also thank him here 🙂

As you can see, the order of the acknowledgements goes from the most academic to the least . Importantly, your thesis or dissertation supervisor (sometimes also called an advisor) generally comes first . This is because they are typically the person most involved in shaping your project (or at least, they should be). Plus, they’re oftentimes involved in marking your final work and so a kind word never hurts…

All that said, remember that your acknowledgements section is personal . So, feel free to adjust this order, but do pay close attention to any guidelines or rules provided by your university. If they specify a certain order or set of contents, follow their instructions to the letter.

How to write the acknowledgements section

In terms of style, try to strike a balance between conveying a formal tone and a personal touch . In practical terms, this means that you should use plain, straightforward language (this isn’t the time for heavy academic jargon), but avoid using any slang, nicknames, etc.

As a guide, you’ll typically use some of the following phrases in the acknowledgements section:

I would like to express my appreciation to… for their help with… I’m particularly grateful to… as they provided… I could not have completed this project without… as this allowed me to… Special thanks to… who did… I had the pleasure of working with… who helped me… I’d also like to recognise… who assisted me with…

In terms of positioning, the acknowledgements section is typically in the preliminary matter , most commonly after the abstract and before the table of contents. In terms of length, this section usually spans one to three paragraphs , but there’s no strict word limit (unless your university’s brief states otherwise, of course).

If you’re unsure where to place your acknowledgements or what length to make this section, it’s a good idea to have a look at past dissertations and theses from your university and/or department to get a clearer view of what the norms are.

Practical Example

Alright, let’s look at an example to give you a better idea of what this section looks like in practice.

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Professor Smith, whose expertise and knowledge were invaluable during this research. My sincere thanks also go to the University Research Fund for their financial support.   I am deeply thankful to my colleagues, John and Jane, for their insightful discussions and moral support. Lastly, I must acknowledge my family for their unwavering love and encouragement. Without your support, this project would not have been possible.

As you can see in this example, the section is short and to the point , working from formal support through to personal support. If you’re interested, you can explore a few more examples here .

To simplify the process, we’ve created a free template for the acknowledgements section. If you’re interested, you can download a copy here .

FAQs: Acknowledgements

Can i include some humour in my acknowledgements.

A touch of light humour is okay, but keep it appropriate and professional. Remember that this is still part of an academic document.

Can I acknowledge someone who provided informal or emotional support?

Yes, you can thank anyone who offered emotional support, motivation, or even informal advice that helped you during your studies. This can include friends, family members, or a mentor/coach who provided guidance outside of an academic setting.

Should I mention any challenges or difficulties I faced during my research?

While the acknowledgements section is primarily for expressing gratitude, briefly mentioning significant challenges you overcame can highlight the importance of the support you received. That said, you’ll want to keep the focus on the gratitude aspect and avoid delving too deeply into the challenges themselves.

Can I acknowledge the contribution of participants in my research?

Absolutely. If your research involved participants, especially in fields like social sciences or human studies, acknowledging their contribution is not only courteous but also an ethical practice. It shows respect for their participation and contribution to your research.

How do I acknowledge posthumous gratitude, for someone who passed away during my study period?

Acknowledging a deceased individual who played a significant role in your academic journey can be done respectfully. Mention them in the same way you would a living contributor, perhaps adding a note of remembrance.

For example, “I would like to posthumously acknowledge John McAnders for their invaluable advice and support in the early stages of this research.”.

Is there a limit to the number of people I can acknowledge?

How do i acknowledge a group or organisation.

When thanking a group or organization, mention the entity by name and, if applicable, include specific individuals within the organization who were particularly helpful.

For example, “I extend my thanks to The Speakers Foundation for their support, particularly Mr Joe Wilkins, for their guidance.”

Recap: Key Takeaways

Writing the acknowledgements section of your thesis or dissertation is an opportunity to express gratitude to everyone who helped you along the way.

Remember to:

• Acknowledge those people who significantly contributed to your research journey
• Order your thanks from formal support to personal support
• Maintain a balance between formal and personal tones
• Keep it concise

In a nutshell, use this section to reflect your appreciation in a genuinely and professionally way.

Psst... there’s more!

This post was based on one of our popular Research Bootcamps . If you're working on a research project, you'll definitely want to check this out ...

Hi there, its nice article concerning media print,we all be aware of media is a wonderful source of information

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Print Friendly

Enjoy a completely custom, expertly-written dissertation. Choose from hundreds of writers, all of whom are career specialists in your subject.

Thesis & Dissertation Acknowledgements

Acknowledging those who support your graduate work is an important, yet often overlooked, component of a thesis or dissertation. While the focus is rightly placed on the research and writing itself, taking time to recognize those who helped make it possible is a meaningful gesture of gratitude. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide to crafting effective and thoughtful acknowledgments.

We’ll first define what acknowledgments are and explain their purpose within a graduate paper. Next, we’ll offer tips for including the right people and expressing your appreciation in a sincere yet polished way. Examples will illustrate how to structure and format your acknowledgments properly. We’ll also discuss common dos and don’ts to help you avoid any missteps. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your ability to acknowledge all those who supported you throughout your graduate journey.

What Are Dissertation Acknowledgments?

Dissertation acknowledgments provide an opportunity to thank the key individuals who supported and guided the completion of doctoral research. This formal yet personal section allows the author to recognize those who offered invaluable expertise, feedback, encouragement, and more throughout the dissertation journey.

According to recent research studies on dissertation acknowledgments:

• They help to recognize the extensive support network that was invaluable in helping the student complete their research project. This network is often overlooked despite playing a big role.
• Including acknowledgments helps to personalize the dissertation and shows the human/personal side of the work, rather than just seeing it as an academic document. This can help examiners engage with the thesis.
• It creates positive feelings and goodwill towards the student from those acknowledged. Supervisors especially appreciate public recognition of their efforts and guidance.
• Expressing appreciation has well-documented mental health benefits for students during the stressful thesis writing process. It provides an opportunity to reflect on the support received.
• For professional master’s students, acknowledgments can strengthen industry connections and partnerships that may benefit future career opportunities.

How To Write Dissertation Acknowledgments

Here are the basic steps on how to write dissertation acknowledgements:

• Thank your committee members. Be sure to thank your advisor, committee chair, and other committee members for their guidance and support throughout your dissertation journey.
• Acknowledge any funding sources. If you received financial support through grants, scholarships, or a teaching/research assistantship, thank the organization or department that provided these resources.
• Appreciate friends and family. Express gratitude to loved ones for their encouragement, understanding, and patience as you dedicated long hours to your research and writing.
• Cite any additional mentors. If other faculty, colleagues, or professionals provided valuable advice or expertise, acknowledge their contributions here as well.
• Proofread carefully. Have someone you trust review your acknowledgments to catch any errors before final submission. Make sure information is formatted and presented professionally.

Dos And Don’ts Of Dissertation Acknowledgments

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind:

• Express deep gratitude and appreciation for your supervisors’ guidance and support throughout your PhD journey. A heartfelt thank you goes a long way.
• Acknowledge any funding sources that enabled your research. This is important for them to see the impact of their investment.
• Thank friends and family for their encouragement, patience, and for believing in you. Their support was invaluable.
• Keep it concise yet meaningful. One well-written paragraph is sufficient to acknowledge all contributors.
• Proofread your acknowledgments to ensure the correct spelling of names and appropriate language. This shows respect for those thanked.

DON’Ts:

• Forget to acknowledge anyone who significantly helped your research and writing. Leave no stone unturned to show appreciation.
• Use overly casual language or be too brief that it comes across as insincere. Strike the right tone of gratitude.
• Exceed one paragraph length which may distract readers from your actual dissertation work.
• Include any negative comments no matter how you felt at times during your PhD journey. Keep it positive!

Examples Of Effective Dissertation Acknowledgments

Here are some examples of dissertation and thesis acknowledgements. They demonstrate gratitude to people who provided thesis help or had any impact on your dissertation:

“I would like to thank my supervisor, Dr. Mitra, for his invaluable guidance and feedback throughout this research project. His expertise in the field of cognitive psychology helped shape the direction of my study. I am also grateful to my committee members, Dr. Jones and Dr. Williams, whose insightful comments and questions about my proposal and defense helped strengthen my work. Finally, I wish to acknowledge the financial support of the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council.”

“I am deeply grateful to my family for their unwavering love and encouragement during my graduate studies. To my parents, Jane and John, thank you for your emotional support and for believing in me. To my partner Sam, thank you for your patience, for keeping me fed on late nights of writing, and for always reminding me to take breaks. I could not have done this without all of you in my corner.”

“I wish to thank my advisor Professor Johnson for her guidance and feedback throughout this research. I am also grateful to my committee members Dr. Smith and Dr. Williams for their insightful comments. Finally, I want to acknowledge the support of my friends and family who encouraged me every step of the way.”

“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my advisor Professor Jennifer Smith for her invaluable guidance, feedback, and support throughout this research. I am also thankful for the insightful contributions of my committee members, Dr. Michael Jones and Dr. Samantha Williams, who provided thoughtful comments and challenges that helped strengthen my work. Finally, I wish to acknowledge the unwavering encouragement of my friends and family, who motivated me throughout this lengthy process. I could not have completed this endeavor without the assistance of these important people.”

Difference Between A Thesis And Dissertation Acknowledgement

Here are the key differences between a dissertation acknowledgement and a thesis acknowledgement:

• Purpose: A dissertation acknowledgement thanks those who helped with a doctoral degree, while a thesis acknowledgement recognizes support for a master’s degree. The dissertation generally requires more extensive research.
• Tone: A dissertation acknowledgement is more formal since a Ph.D. is a higher academic achievement. Thesis acknowledgements can be slightly less formal.
• Length: Dissertation acknowledgments tend to be longer since doctoral research often spans several years. Thesis acknowledgements are typically 1-2 paragraphs.
• People thanked: Dissertation acknowledgements often recognize a wider network of supporters over many years, including committee members, program directors, funding bodies, colleagues, friends, and family. The thesis acknowledgements focus more on academic advisors, committee members, and peers who directly contributed to the research project.
• Placement: Both usually come after the abstract or preface/foreword and before the table of contents. Dissertation acknowledgements may also appear after the dedication page. Thesis acknowledgements are usually placed earlier in the document.
• Language: Dissertation acknowledgements use more sophisticated vocabulary to reflect the advanced academic level. The thesis acknowledgements have simpler language.
• Detail: Dissertation acknowledgements may provide brief details about how different individuals specifically supported the research journey. The thesis acknowledgements focus more on general thanks.

Get Dissertation Assistance

We hope this comprehensive guide has equipped you with the knowledge and examples for how to write acknowledgement for dissertation. Remember that acknowledgments serve as an opportunity to express gratitude to those who supported your academic journey.

With the tips provided, you can be sure to properly recognize all those who helped make your research possible. It is also important to recognize that the support of others extends beyond the immediate needs of your research. Mentors, advisors, friends, and family provide invaluable emotional support during the challenges of graduate study. Their encouragement helped sustain your efforts and motivated you to persevere, even during frustrating periods.

This support network is truly worthy of recognition for helping you achieve this important academic milestone. We encourage you to draw upon the eloquence of your writing to sincerely convey how grateful you are for the contributions, both tangible and intangible, of all those who played a role in helping you reach this significant point in your career.

To take your work to the next level, consider engaging the skills of professional dissertation writers. Our team of experts has assisted countless graduate students in completing their theses and dissertations through superior research, writing, and dissertation editing help . Whether you need assistance with specific sections or would like us to handle your entire project, our dissertation writers can help you produce outstanding work efficiently and effectively.

Rely on the leaders in the industry to help you cross the finish line with a dissertation that truly reflects your highest abilities. Contact us today to discuss how we can support the final steps of your academic journey.

Who should I acknowledge in my thesis or dissertation?

You’ll want to acknowledge anyone who provided meaningful support during your graduate studies and research. This typically includes your advisor(s), committee members, lab mates, friends, and family who supported you emotionally, and funding sources. Be sure to obtain permission from individuals before acknowledging them.

How do I properly word my acknowledgements?

Acknowledgements should be heartfelt but formal in tone. Address individuals by their full names and titles or roles (e.g. “Dr. John Smith, my academic advisor”). Express your sincere gratitude for their contributions while maintaining a professional tone. Avoid fluff and hyperbole.

Is there a standard format for acknowledgements?

While formats vary, acknowledgements commonly have an introduction thanking all contributors, followed by paragraphs organized by relationship (advisor, committee, friends/family). Consider a brief introduction thanking all who supported your work, then address advisors together thanking them for their guidance, then the committee thanking them for their time and feedback, then any funding sources or departments, and finally friends and family.

How long should acknowledgements be?

Acknowledgements pages are typically one paragraph or one short page. Keep it concise while still recognizing all meaningful contributors. Edit out redundant or less important acknowledgements if it exceeds one page. Your thank you to each individual or group should be one to three sentences max.

What if I accidentally leave someone out?

Mistakes happen, so don’t stress if you realize a minor omission after submission. For important contributors, contact your advisor to discuss options like submitting an addendum page. In the future, have others review your acknowledgements to catch any other oversights before the final submission. A thoughtful acknowledgement shows gratitude, even if not perfectly comprehensive.

Richard Ginger is a dissertation writer and freelance columnist with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the writing industry. He handles every project he works on with precision while keeping attention to details and ensuring that every work he does is unique.

Succeed With A Perfect Dissertation

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

How to Write an Acknowledgement for a Dissertation

Thomas Babb

Acknowledgements are one of the most important parts of writing a dissertation or thesis. Although not something that you’ll be critiqued on, giving thanks is an important part of the process. But how do you actually write an acknowledgement for a dissertation?

Your acknowledgements are where you get to thank people who supported you throughout the years, may it be during the process of researching and writing, or just generally in your studies. To help you write the best acknowledgement for your dissertation possible, we’ve pulled together absolutely all the information you’ll need.

In this article, we’ll cover what you should in include in your acknowledgements, how to write one, why they’re important, and how to get started. Let’s jump right in.

What to Acknowledge in Your Dissertation and Who To Thank

Of course, as you would expect, there is no need to thank every person that was part of your studies. Especially if you’re completing a PahD, then you will have been in education for years. To go through and thank every single person that contributed to your studies would simply be impossible. Okay, maybe not impossible, but it sure would make for a long dissertation acknowledgements section.

That said, it’s important to thank the people who both helped and supported you emotionally and academically throughout your dissertation. Here below, you’ll find who you should thank and the most important examples to make your life easier when writing your acknowledgements.

Personal Dissertation Acknowledgements

Personal acknowledgements , as their name says, are anything that’s personal to you. Here, you’re free to include whoever particularly supported you. Mentioning every member of your family isn’t necessary, and we don’t recommend it. However, choose 1 or 2 people that were there for you all the time and encouraged you on the path to your end qualification.

If you’d like, you could select a few different people and whiz through them. You don’t have to dedicate an entire paragraph to every single person that’s supported you. Sometimes, a list is more than enough. In fact, this is actually what you’ll see on a lot of PhD dissertation acknowledgements, with people wanting to include as many people as possible without taking up much space.

At the end of the day, it’s important to remember that whatever you say, goes. You’re the one that has to write an acknowledgement for a dissertation, meaning you can put whatever or whoever you’d like in there. While there are some general rules to follow, always do what you think is best.

Professional Dissertation Acknowledgements

Unlike personal acknowledgements, professional acknowledgements are meant to thank important people in your academic sphere that supported you throughout your university journey. This may include, but are not limited to:

• Supervisors
• Funding bodies
• Research participants (for instance, people who filled out a survey for you)

It is important to note that some universities have strict policies stating that only professional individuals that directly supported your work should be cited in your acknowledgements. For this reason, make sure to always read the guidelines before starting to write your acknowledgement for your dissertation or thesis.

Should You Always Thank Your Supervisor in your Dissertation Acknowledgements?

As mentioned previously, some universities will push you to thank your supervisor since they directly supported your work during your studies. Apart from that, we recommend that thanking your supervisor is probably a good thing to do.

After all, this person has been there for you during the potential years it took for you to get this qualification. Beyond just providing guidance, academic supervisors do a lot of work behind the scenes to make your qualifications happen. Be sure to give them enough respect in this section that your university requires.

While the answer to this question is probably yes, nothing is set in stone. If you genuinely believe that they didn’t help you, or there was friction between you and your dissertation supervisor, then a curt nod to them might be all you need.

When writing acknowledgements for a dissertation or thesis, the style can be more informal compared to the rest of the dissertation. However, keeping it somewhat professional will help you succeed and look better when your assessors read it. In addition, it will also set the tone for the rest of the thesis.

The process of writing an acknowledgement can be difficult. To give you a helping hand, we’ve come up with these three steps that you can follow:

Generate Ideas

Let’s break these down further.

The very first step when needing to write an acknowledgement for a dissertation is going to be brainstorming. You should take some time to go through the past couple of years in your head. Grab a pen and some paper and write down any names that come to mind. At first, this will be obvious. Your supervisor's name will come to mind, as well as any other large figures you’ve encountered on your journey.

Spend around 30 minutes writing down absolutely everyone you can think of that’s had a positive impact on you during this process. Some could be major players, while others could just be friends that have supported you. At this point, that difference doesn’t matter.

This step is all about making sure you don’t accidentally leave someone out that should be on there. As always, be sure to move through both personal and professional names, jotting down all the people that have been a part of your journey. Creating this basis will help make sure you include everyone you want there, as well as help you instantly know who is more important to include in the acknowledgements than others.

As we’ve suggested, as you create this mindmap of different people that have helped you, some names will definitely stand out more than others. While one person could have been pivotal in the creation of your dissertation, others could have just been minor positive influences.

Once you have a completed mindmap of absolutely everyone you can think of, it’s time to categorize them. There are three main categories you should include here:

• Massive Thanks - This category is for those people that really carried you through this project. Your academic supervisor, best friend, parents, partner, or someone else that was essential to you completing the paper. These are people that you must absolutely include in when turning to write your acknowledgement for a dissertation. If you could only select a few people, these are the chosen few that would make the cut.
• Big Thanks - This category is for people that have definitely lent you a hand along the way. Maybe it’s your flatmates that have coached you through some tough times or a peer that you’ve bounced ideas off. This section will be filled with people that are most likely going to make the cut, but not in the first paragraph.
• Thank You - Finally, we turn to the third category we can put people into. Don’t get things twisted, these people still definitely helped you during your dissertation. Maybe they provided some insight, or maybe they’re just people you think you should thank. No matter who they are, this category is a catch-all for them.

Across these three categories, you’ll now have a fairly clear hierarchy of which people are the most important in your project and which are the least. If you’re short on space, then you’re going to cut people out of your dissertation acknowledgements from the bottom tier up.

Once you have this list, it’s going to be much easier to then actually write an acknowledgement for a dissertation. You’ll have a range of people to touch upon and will know exactly where they fall in your list of priorities. Knowing who to include is always the first step, so if you’re already this far, you’re flying.

Next, we turn to structuring your dissertation. To help you with this, we’ve actually created a whole article filled with some of the best dissertation acknowledgement examples for you to browse through. These will help you understand what you should include and how you should structure your writing.

When structuring your acknowledgements, also break it down into paragraphs. This logical structure is both easy to follow and easy to plan. You only need to decide if you start with the most important people of the least important. For example, you could cover a list of names before then going into longer descriptions of the Massive Thanks group of people.

Alternatively, you could start with a longer paragraph that gives thanks to your Massive Thanks group before then transitioning and moving down to Big Thanks and, finally the Thank You group.

The wonders of online writing are that you can write out each paragraph and then structure them however you’d like. Move things around and see which structure speaks to you.

Write your Dissertation Acknowledgements

Once you’ve got all of your names and know the structure you want to follow, it’s time to write the acknowledgement section of your dissertation. This could be the hardest part, but with the level of planning you’ve done, things might just flow.

We recommend that you let your creativity flow here. Just writing, without editing or without double checking what you’re doing. Letting yourself get into a flow state where you continue to produce words will allow you to get as much down on paper as possible. From there, all you need to do is edit, which is considerably easier than writing itself.

Although this may seem strange, you’ve got to remember that the whole point of an acknowledgement section is to give thanks to people. Speaking from your heart - as cheesy as that sounds - is absolutely the way to go here. Unfortunately, there isn't any easy way to ‘hack’ this; you just need to get pen to paper and let your gratitude show.

As a side note, you should always use full names as well as titles. In fact, by proving their title, you will be able to add credibility and value to your thesis, depending on the reputation they have.

Why Is The Acknowledgement Part Of A Thesis So Important?

Given all the factors above, why is the acknowledgement part so important? First of all, and while it doesn’t have any academic impact on thesis, or dissertation, they simply look incomplete without it. Also, it would show that you respect your supervisor, colleagues, or even classmates, and that will certainly give you some extra points.

Although this is your project, you didn’t get there alone. The acknowledgement part of a theis is so important because you’re clearly stating that you worked from a position of community on this project. The final work is yours, by the support and mental help you got along the way are a reflection of the net of friends, family, co-workers, and academic support that you’ve always had.

This is your moment to say thank you for all of that, permanently cementing names that mean a lot to you within your final copy of your thesis dissertation. Well, done, you’ve done it.

How To Get Started And Write Acknowledgements For Your Thesis

Getting started when writing the acknowledgement section of your thesis is simply the most difficult part. What to write, formal or informal style, and how to thank your superiors or peers the right way is important. Below, you’ll find some great start sentences to your acknowledgement part: 'I would like to...'

• 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]

These are all great ways to start the acknowledgement part of your thesis. However, let’s see how to end the acknowledgement of each individual in order to remain professional and impress the assessors.

• Assistance in the research project/survey that helped me deeply.
• Useful and insightful comments, feedback, and suggestions.
• Always believing in me at every stage of my studies
• For their contribution

Considering that only around 2% of the general population in the UK has a doctoral degree, not many people will have had the opportunity to write a thesis acknowledgement section. This can create a lot of pressure, as you’re not too sure what to expect. One of the best places to learn more about what is required is going directly to your supervisor. They can give your resources and push you in the right direction.

Turning to your supervisor when needing to write an acknowledgement for a dissertation is also a good idea because they’ll be well-versed in the general formula that your university uses when creating these sections. Often, they’ll have their own PhD that you could use as a reference. Equally, you can ask them how much is too much when it comes to thanking them.

While everyone likes a bit of praise, this is your project at the end of the day. Make sure to focus on people that helped you, but don’t give away too much credit. After all, you’re the one that’s achieved this exciting academic feat.

Closing Thoughts

This is what you had to know and how you should write an acknowledgement for a dissertation or a thesis. Starting from a more informal yet professional style to finding the right words and, ultimately, impressing your assessors with a complete thesis, this is the right path to follow. If you need any help with crafting your acknowledgements section or the final steps of your dissertation , be sure to reach out to one of our expert writing tutors .

Need help from an expert?

4.93 /5 based on 486 reviews

The world’s top online tutoring provider trusted by students, parents, and schools globally.

Study and Practice for Free

Trusted by 100,000+ Students Worldwide

Achieve Top Grades in your Exams with our Free Resources.

Practice Questions, Study Notes, and Past Exam Papers for all Subjects!

Need Expert Help?

If you’re looking for assistance, get in touch with one of our expert tutors who will be able to provide you with the support you need for the university dissertation . We’ll be there every step of the way!

Professional tutor and Cambridge University researcher

Written by: Thomas Babb

Thomas is a PhD candidate at Oxford University. He served as an interviewer and the lead admissions test marker at Oxford, and teaches undergraduate students at Mansfield College and St Hilda’s College. He has ten years’ experience tutoring A-Level and GCSE students across a range of subjects.

Related Posts

Business Management Dissertation Topics

Dissertation Acknowledgement Examples - 8+ Examples

A Complete Guide to Writing Your Dissertation

Hire a tutor

Please fill out the form and we'll find a tutor for you

• Select your country
• Afghanistan
• Åland Islands
• American Samoa
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Bouvet Island
• British Indian Ocean Territory
• Brunei Darussalam
• Burkina Faso
• Cayman Islands
• Central African Republic
• Christmas Island
• Cocos (Keeling) Islands
• Congo, The Democratic Republic of the
• Cook Islands
• Cote D'Ivoire
• Czech Republic
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Equatorial Guinea
• Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
• Faroe Islands
• French Guiana
• French Polynesia
• French Southern Territories
• Guinea-Bissau
• Heard Island and Mcdonald Islands
• Holy See (Vatican City State)
• Iran, Islamic Republic Of
• Isle of Man
• Korea, Democratic People'S Republic of
• Korea, Republic of
• Lao People'S Democratic Republic
• Libyan Arab Jamahiriya
• Liechtenstein
• Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of
• Marshall Islands
• Micronesia, Federated States of
• Moldova, Republic of
• Netherlands
• Netherlands Antilles
• New Caledonia
• New Zealand
• Norfolk Island
• Northern Mariana Islands
• Palestinian Territory, Occupied
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Puerto Rico
• Russian Federation
• Saint Helena
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Pierre and Miquelon
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Sao Tome and Principe
• Saudi Arabia
• Serbia and Montenegro
• Sierra Leone
• Solomon Islands
• South Africa
• South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
• Svalbard and Jan Mayen
• Switzerland
• Syrian Arab Republic
• Taiwan, Province of China
• Tanzania, United Republic of
• Timor-Leste
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turkmenistan
• Turks and Caicos Islands
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States
• United States Minor Outlying Islands
• Virgin Islands, British
• Virgin Islands, U.S.
• Wallis and Futuna
• Western Sahara

Alternatively contact us via WhatsApp, Phone Call, or Email

• How it works

How to Write Dissertation Acknowledgements

Published by Owen Ingram at August 13th, 2021 , Revised On July 29, 2024

Acknowledging someone means thanking them. The acknowledgement section in a dissertation is used to express gratitude towards all those who have helped you prepare the dissertation.

Both professional and personal acknowledgements can be included in it. The acknowledgement section comes in between the title page  and the  abstract page . It is best suited to be on one page.

The writer has the liberty to use  personal pronouns (I, we, my, etc) in this section, as this section allows more of an informal way of writing. Here is a quick guide to help you understand how to write acknowledgements for your own dissertation .

Dissertation Acknowledgement Example

Let’s start with an example, so you have an idea of the basics, to begin with.

You can use the following examples of common sentences in acknowledgements to get you started:

• I want to thank my supervisor, ABC (their name here) for his/her guidance through each stage of the process.
• I want to acknowledge Professor S. Jobs for inspiring my interest in the development of innovative technologies.
• My research partner, Dr Jane Goodall, was instrumental in defining the path of my research. For this, I am extremely grateful.

If you are really stuck and still unsure about writing dissertation acknowledgements, begin each sentence with “I would like to thank…”, and elaborate on how each person or group contributed.

Similarly, it would help to go through some other small as well as big acknowledgement samples to help get you started with this brief, stress-free section of your dissertation

ResearchProspect is a UK registered firm providing academic support and assistance to undergraduate, Masters and PhD students.

Whether you need help with your dissertation writing service , essay writing service, assignment writing service , poster , or just the research process, our expert writers can do the hard work for you so you can sit back and relax. To place your order, please head to our online order or contact us via email – [email protected] or telecom – +44 141 628 7786 to discuss your requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an example of a dissertation acknowledgement.

“I am deeply grateful for the guidance and support of my supervisor, Dr. Smith, whose insights and feedback were invaluable throughout this journey. I also extend my appreciation to my family for their unwavering encouragement and to my friends for their understanding during this endeavor.”

You May Also Like

This article is a step-by-step guide to how to write statement of a problem in research. The research problem will be half-solved by defining it correctly.

Table of contents is an essential part of dissertation paper. Here is all you need to know about how to create the best table of contents for dissertation.

Dissertation discussion is where you explore the relevance and significance of results. Here are guidelines to help you write the perfect discussion chapter.

USEFUL LINKS

LEARNING RESOURCES

COMPANY DETAILS

• How It Works

5 inspiring PhD thesis acknowledgement examples

Crafting a PhD thesis acknowledgement can be a challenging task, but it can also be an enjoyable one. There are no strict rules or guidelines to follow, allowing for creative freedom. However, seeking inspiration from sample acknowledgements can greatly assist in initiating your own writing process. Here are five PhD thesis acknowledgement examples!

PhD thesis acknowledgement example 1

First and foremost, I would like to thank my PhD supervisors, Prof. Xiu Ling and Prof. Frederic Semoas. Their constant support, guidance, and encouragement have been invaluable throughout the entire process. From the initial stages of refining my research proposal to the final submission of my thesis, their unwavering presence and wealth of wisdom have been instrumental in shaping my academic growth. I highly valued the biweekly meetings we held, which not only served as crucial checkpoints to keep me on track academically, but also provided me with plenty of encouragement. I am profoundly grateful for the immeasurable contributions they made to my development.

Among the most memorable highlights of my PhD journey was the opportunity to participate in the Applied Chemistry Summer School in Belfast. This enriching experience would not have been possible without the dedication and expertise of Dr. Simone and Dr. Erek. I am deeply grateful for the knowledge, connections, and friendships that were forged during that time.

PhD thesis acknowledgement example 2

It takes a village to raise a child” is a well-known proverb, and I strongly believe that completing a PhD also requires the support of a village. Therefore, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the people who played significant roles in my PhD journey.

Furthermore, I want to thank all the interviewees who generously shared their thoughts and life stories for my research. Without your willingness to participate, my thesis would not have been possible.

PhD thesis acknowledgement example 3

When I embarked on my PhD journey five years ago, little did I know the profound experiences that lay ahead. Fulfilling my long-held dream of pursuing a PhD, time seemed to pass swiftly as I immersed myself in the world of academia. Transitioning from several years in professional practice back to the university environment was both daunting and exhilarating.

During my third and fourth years, I had the privilege of working as a teaching assistant for Prof. Susan Meyers. This role introduced me to the immensely fulfilling world of teaching, from which I gained invaluable knowledge and insights. Prof. Meyers provided exceptional guidance and unwavering support throughout my teaching endeavors.

My greatest aspiration is that my research proves beneficial and contributes to a better understanding of earthquakes. The drive to advance knowledge in this field continues to fuel my motivation and determination. I am deeply grateful to all the individuals mentioned, as none of this would have been possible without their guidance and encouragement. I am excited to see what the future holds.

PhD thesis acknowledgement example 4

Throughout my PhD journey, I have been fortunate to explore various places and experiences. Moving to Chicago, I had the privilege of joining an exceptional literature department, surrounded by individuals who share a deep passion for reading. Relocating to a new city on my own was challenging, but fate led me to forge a wonderful friendship with my flat mate, Loreen. Loreen, I am grateful for your companionship and support from the very beginning of my PhD.

Participating in a three-minute research pitch competition not only pushed me beyond my comfort zone but also introduced me to an incredible partner, Joshua. It is remarkable how life leads us to unexpected places and introduces us to remarkable people when we least expect it.

Grandma and Grandpa, you made immense sacrifices and worked tirelessly to provide a better life for your children and grandchildren. Look how far we have come! Your dedication and resilience continue to inspire me as I reflect on my achievements.

PhD thesis acknowledgement example 5

To Katie, Felicitas, Aron, Xime, and Andy – you are the best PhD crew in the entire department. Together, we have navigated the challenges and celebrated the triumphs, and I am grateful to have had you by my side.

Master Academia

Get new content delivered directly to your inbox, 13 great academic phrases to write your discussion (+ published examples), how to address data privacy and confidentiality concerns of ai in research, related articles, how to write a unique thesis acknowledgement (+ faqs), 75 linking words for academic writing (+examples), getting the most out of thesis supervision meetings, how to find a reputable academic dissertation editor.

Acknowledgements For Thesis Examples: Just Copy & Edit!

Writing acknowledgements for your thesis is an opportunity to express gratitude to those who have supported your academic journey.

This section, often overlooked, is where you can personally thank everyone from advisors and peers to family members who’ve provided both professional and emotional support.

This article provides structured examples and essential tips to help you craft meaningful acknowledgements, ensuring you appropriately recognise the contributions of all who aided your research and writing process.

How To Write Thesis Acknowledgements

What Is An Acknowledgement?

What is a thesis acknowledgement, and why do people write them?

The acknowledgement section of your thesis or dissertation is an integral part of academic tradition. Here, you have the unique opportunity to thank those who have significantly contributed to your research project.

This section typically appears right after the abstract and before the table of contents in your thesis , placing it prominently at the beginning of your document.

In a thesis acknowledgement , you extend your sincere thanks to everyone who played an important role in your academic journey. These could include you:

• Family members
• Funders, or 
• Supervisor.

Writing this section allows you to reflect on the collaborative nature of academic work and ensures that everyone who contributed feels appreciated.

Whether it’s the direct help from your research team or the moral support from loved ones, acknowledging these contributions shows your gratitude and recognises their importance in your successful completion of the thesis.

How To Write Acknowledgement Section For Thesis Or Dissertation?

Writing the acknowledgement section in your thesis or dissertation can feel like a breath of fresh air after the rigorous academic writing you’ve been steeped in.

Here’s a step-by-step approach that ensures you acknowledge all who contributed.

Step One: Start with Professional Acknowledgements

Your first move should be to thank your supervisor or dissertation advisor. This person likely had the most direct impact on your research and might also be involved in evaluating your thesis.

Mention any other academic staff who supported you. These could be anyone really, but usually include:

• librarians,
• lab technicians, or

Step Two: Acknowledge Academic Peers and Collaborators

Next, consider your peers, fellow researchers, or any collaborative partners.

If someone from your research team or another student contributed significantly, mention them by name and describe their input.

A typical line could be, “I like to acknowledge John Smith for his insightful contributions to the data analysis phase of this project.”

Step Three: Mention Funding Sources and Research Participants

If your research was funded by a grant or scholarship, acknowledging these sources is crucial.

You don’t need to delve into the specifics of the financials but do mention the organisation and how it supported your work. 

If your project involved participants who contributed data or other valuable information, they should also be recognised here.

Step Four: Include Personal Acknowledgements

After the more formal citations, you can get a bit more personal. Thank friends and family who offered emotional support or even practical help, like proofreading drafts of your paper.

If you feel it’s fitting, you can also thank those who provided less tangible forms of support, such as inspiration or encouragement during challenging times.

Here, a more informal tone is acceptable. You might say, “I am immensely grateful to my family for their unwavering belief in my abilities and endless patience.”

Step Five: Consider Any Unusual Helpers

In some cases, people include acknowledgements of their pets for companionship or even places that offered a conducive environment for writing.

This should be brief but can add a charming touch to your acknowledgements, reflecting your personality.

Step Six: Review for Order and Tone

Revisit the order of your acknowledgements after drafting them.

The typical hierarchy goes from the most formal to the least, but your personal style and the nature of your project might influence this.

Ensure the tone remains respectful and professional but also warm where appropriate.

Step Seven: Conform to Your University’s Guidelines

Before finalising, check your university’s guidelines for the thesis format. Some institutions have specific requirements for the acknowledgements section concerning its placement or maximum length.

This step ensures your thesis complies with all formal requirements and respects academic protocols.

Step Eight: Proofread and Edit

Finally, proofread your acknowledgements carefully. Errors here, although less critical than in your main academic text, can still distract or give a poor impression.

You might ask a friend or family member to read through this section—they might remind you of someone you’ve overlooked!

The acknowledgement section, while less formal, is a significant part of your thesis. It not only allows you to thank those who supported you but also shows your ability to appreciate and recognise the contributions of others. 

It’s your opportunity to reflect on the collaborative efforts that have shaped your academic endeavour.

Acknowledgements For Thesis Example

If you want something that you can use right away, here’s a template for writing a thesis acknowledgement.

This template encapsulates all the steps and recommendations you might need to craft a heartfelt and professional section in your dissertation:

Acknowledgements

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to my supervisor, [SUPERVISOR NAME], for her unwavering guidance and expert advice throughout the course of this research. Her insights and dedication have been pivotal to the success of this project.

I am also grateful to the members of the faculty, [FACULTY MEMBER NAME] and [FACULTY MEMBER NAME], whose expertise in my area of study greatly enriched my work. My thanks extend as well to the library staff at [UNIVERSITY NAME] and the laboratory technicians, especially [NAME], for their invaluable assistance.

Special thanks are due to my colleagues and fellow researchers, particularly [NAME] and [NAME], for their collaboration and the critical role they played in data collection and analysis. Their perspectives and rigor helped shape many of the project’s most crucial phases.

I acknowledge the financial support I received from [NAME OF GRANT OR SCHOLARSHIP], which was essential in facilitating my research. I am also thankful to all the participants who willingly shared their experiences and data, contributing immeasurably to the findings of this study.

On a more personal note, I would also like to thank my family for their love and encouragement. To my parents, [NAME(S)], thank you for your endless patience and support. My siblings, [NAME(S)], provided not just relief from the stresses of academic life, but also eagerly participated in brainstorming sessions. I am immensely grateful for every moment of comfort and motivation that they provided.

I would like to thank my dog, [NAME] who was always by my side during those long nights of writing and revising. His presence brought a sense of calm and companionship that was more helpful than he might realise.

As I conclude this section, I reflect on the journey that was made easier through the support and encouragement from each individual mentioned, and many unmentioned. Each of you played an important role in making not just this thesis, but my entire educational experience at [UNIVERSITY NAME] both possible and memorable.

This template follows a structured yet personal approach, allowing for the expression of sincere gratitude while adhering to academic norms.

It’s important to adapt this template to fit the specifics of your situation, the contributions of each individual you wish to thank, and any guidelines provided by your university.

Remember, this section not only recognises the support you’ve received but also reflects your appreciation for the collaborative effort involved in your academic achievements.

Thesis Acknowledgements Examples Explored

In crafting your thesis acknowledgements, you celebrate the collaborative spirit of your academic journey. 

This guide ensures that you eloquently express gratitude to those who’ve shaped your scholarly pursuits—from mentors and colleagues to family and friends. 

By following these structured steps and adapting them to your personal and institutional requirements, you create an acknowledgements section that not only meets formal standards but also reflects your heartfelt appreciation for the support you’ve received.

Dr Andrew Stapleton has a Masters and PhD in Chemistry from the UK and Australia. He has many years of research experience and has worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Associate at a number of Universities. Although having secured funding for his own research, he left academia to help others with his YouTube channel all about the inner workings of academia and how to make it work for you.

Thank you for visiting Academia Insider.

We are here to help you navigate Academia as painlessly as possible. We are supported by our readers and by visiting you are helping us earn a small amount through ads and affiliate revenue - Thank you!

2024 © Academia Insider

• What we check
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Academic Proofreading
• Essay Proofreading
• Thesis Proofreading
• Dissertation Proofreading
• 3 Hour Proofreading Service
• 24 hour proofreading service
• 48 hour proofreading service
• PhD proofreading
• Personal statement proofreading
• Document layout formatting
• Proofreading Website
• Blog Proofreading
• Report Proofreading
• Novel editing services
• Book proofreading service
• Journal Article Editing
• Law Journal Formatting

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!

Visit our blog for more topics including Harvard referencing and Youtube

Rated 4.9/5 On Trustpilot…Read Our Reviews

Pay with debit/credit card with paypal or stripe.

What our customers say

Proofreading samples.

We are a professional UK proofreading and editing company and we use two proofreaders on every document. Our service goes beyond mere proofreading and includes editing for sentence structure, lexis, repetition and more.

• PhD proofreading service
• Dissertation proofreading
• Universities

Customer Support Hours:

Monday to Friday: 08:00-19:00

Saturday: CLOSED.

Sunday: CLOSED.

Copyright 2024 | London Proofreaders is a trading name of MK Media Limited, a company registered in England and Wales.

Terms & Conditions

Have a language expert improve your writing

Run a free plagiarism check in 10 minutes, automatically generate references for free.

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

Thesis & Dissertation Acknowledgements | Tips & Examples

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

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.

Download Word doc Download Google doc

Instantly correct all language mistakes in your text

Be assured that you'll submit flawless writing. Upload your document to correct all your mistakes.

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.

The only proofreading tool specialized in correcting academic writing

The academic proofreading tool has been trained on 1000s of academic texts and by native English editors. Making it the most accurate and reliable proofreading tool for students.

Correct my document today

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

Prevent plagiarism, run a free check.

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.

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the ‘Cite this Scribbr article’ button to automatically add the citation to our free Reference Generator.

George, T. (2022, November 04). Thesis & Dissertation Acknowledgements | Tips & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved 9 September 2024, from https://www.scribbr.co.uk/thesis-dissertation/acknowledgements/

Is this article helpful?

Tegan George

Other students also liked, dissertation title page, how to write an abstract | steps & examples, dissertation table of contents in word | instructions & examples.

• 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

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.

Browse PhDs Now

Join thousands of students.

Join thousands of other students and stay up to date with the latest PhD programmes, funding opportunities and advice.

Academia Bees

Acknowledgement for Thesis (10 Samples and Writing Tips)

October 22, 2023

No Comments

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)

Acknowledgement sample for undergraduate thesis (5 samples), leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

How do I email my supervisor? Part two – the thank you note.

The questions might be naive, but I do want to learn more about the “Australian” way of sending regards to supervisors. My supervisor invited me to a formal business dinner this week with some other professors. As a PhD student who just started research, I felt thrilled about this occasion. He will be on his sabbatical leave soon and we will continue to contact via email, once a month. From the culture of my own country, I should send my supervisor an email containing all the following items. However, I am also thinking about the concerns listed in the brackets. I am not sure whether such a personal email is too far for this more professional supervisor-student relationship in Australia. Thanks again for the dinner. (I have already expressed my gratitude orally and in a previous email. Will this be tedious?) Thanks for all his guidance and caring for the past several months. (But it sounds like a concluding remark, which might not be proper at this time.) Have a safe journey. (A must-say in my hometown. But I was told it was considered odd, or even rude by some Americans. The main reason for this email.) Enjoy the sabbatical leave. (Enjoy?) I will work hard during this period. (Another must-say. But I have never heard students promise this in western countries.) I am struggling between my rational brain and emotional brain, as well as two different cultures. Looking forward to hearing from you. Warm regards, Courteous Student

Here is what I wrote back:

Dear Courteous,

Inter-cultural communication is, indeed, delicate work. Add to that the stress of playing the role of ‘junior’ colleague in academia… let’s just say, it’s challenging. Even students raised in the same culture as their supervisor can struggle with this kind of communication task, which is why it is an excellent topic for a blog post!

When we write a letter, we are playing a role. Think about a letter you would write to a friend while you are on holiday vs a letter you would write to a politician, complaining about Australia’s refugee policy. Want to sound happy and affectionate to your friend and angry and persuasive to the politician. You are a different person when you write each letter. You play the role through your choice of greeting, the words you use, expressive punctuation and so on. For instance, you would not sign off an angry letter to a politician with “with love”; the recipient of your letter will feel very weird, and you will have failed to communicate.

Unlike other parts of formal education, you do not have a ‘social ritual’ that will guide you in everyday interactions with your supervisor; the relationship will emerge and develop over time. Each supervisor / PhD student relationship is unique. I have a very different kind of relationship with every PhD student I supervise, even though I like to think I approach everyone the same way. When the communication is electronic, the interaction problem is magnified because you don’t have live feedback from the person to judge and adjust your performance. Too casual? Too formal? It’s tough to find the right tone, especially at the beginning of your working relationship.

The ‘meta’ problem here is that you do not have a well-defined role to play. Are you a student? A junior colleague? A friend? You can be all three at the same time, or just one, depending on how the relationship between yourself and your supervisor evolves. Even if you do get to the ‘friends’ end of the spectrum, there will still be a power relationship that is unequal; at least until you graduate and in all likelihood, beyond. Recently I met my delightful and supportive masters supervisor at a social event, completely by chance. I studied with her 18 years ago now (!). Back then we were in almost daily contact, even though now we speak but rarely. We certainly became friends, after a fashion. But I still feel like a junior colleague when I talk to her. She’s the most unthreatening, lovely person you can imagine, so this wasn’t from anything she did at the time, or since.

It’s tricky, so let’s tackle it one letter at a time. Here’s what I would write, based on your list of what you want to express. My explanation for every sentence is in square brackets. Reading these notes gives you a sense of how difficult it can be to negotiate the supervisor/student power relations, even in a very everyday piece of correspondence:

Dear [whatever you call him/her – in Australia, most supervisors are more comfortable with first names from PhD students]

I hope you enjoy your sabbatical [‘enjoy’ is an entirely appropriate here – us academics are nerdy and a sabbatical is a dream come true!] . I appreciate all your guidance and care over the last couple of months [keep emotional stuff short and to the point, but don’t forget to include it. If you’ve already thanked by email for the dinner, don’t do it again because in Australia this will feel overbearing. We are not good with gratitude. Maybe it’s a convict thing?] . I plan to work on [insert something general, but specific here like your upcoming milestone presentation. Being specific shows your supervisor that you are confident and have things under control and that you have listened to their advice] over the next couple of months. I’m looking forward to our emails/touching base [this sentence confirms your agreement about communication over the next little while, so he/she knows you understand. The second mode of expression ‘touching base’ is more casual, depends on whether you feel your relationship is moving in that direction or not]  every two weeks. Do let me know if you need to change this arrangement for any reason [indicates you are flexible and understand the nature of his/her leave – gives them something to thank you for, an important ingredient of this sort of communication. In English, saying thanks demands another thanks and sometimes it’s hard to know how to stop the cycle. One reason why emojis are so useful in text messaging!] . Safe travels! [this is a casual way of wishing someone all the best on a journey – not offensive and entirely appropriate. you can choose whether you use the exclamation mark – makes it sound more ‘jaunty’ if you do, thus decreasing the emotional content].

[your usual sign off … mine is ‘best’ if I don’t know a person that well or just my initial in lower case: “i”, if they are a colleague-friend ]

Have you ever struggled to find the right ‘tone’ to email your supervisor? What were you trying to say? Did you manage to communicate well, or not? Love to hear your stories in the comments – from your issues, more blog posts might come!

Related posts

How to email your supervisor (or the tyranny of tiny tasks and what you can do about it)

Five ways to avoid death by email

Share this:

The Thesis Whisperer is written by Professor Inger Mewburn, director of researcher development at The Australian National University . New posts on the first Wednesday of the month. Subscribe by email below. Visit the About page to find out more about me, my podcasts and books. I'm on most social media platforms as @thesiswhisperer. The best places to talk to me are LinkedIn , Mastodon and Threads.

• Post (609)
• Page (16)
• Product (6)
• Getting things done (259)
• Miscellany (139)
• On Writing (139)
• Your Career (113)
• You and your supervisor (66)
• Writing (48)
• productivity (23)
• consulting (13)
• TWC (13)
• supervision (12)
• 2024 (8)
• 2023 (12)
• 2022 (11)
• 2021 (15)
• 2020 (22)

Whisper to me....

Enter your email address to get posts by email.

Email Address

Sign me up!

• On the reg: a podcast with @jasondowns
• Thesis Whisperer on Facebook
• Thesis Whisperer on Instagram
• Thesis Whisperer on Soundcloud
• Thesis Whisperer on Youtube
• Thesiswhisperer on Mastodon
• Thesiswhisperer page on LinkedIn
• Thesiswhisperer Podcast
• 12,231,150 hits

Discover more from The Thesis Whisperer

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

• Cookies & Privacy
• GETTING STARTED
• Introduction
• FUNDAMENTALS
• Acknowledgements
• Research questions & hypotheses
• Concepts, constructs & variables
• Research limitations
• Getting started
• Sampling Strategy
• Research Quality
• Research Ethics
• Data Analysis

THE THANKING MOVE

Showing thanks: people and/or organisations that helped.

The thanking move is not just about thanking those that helped. Clearly, you don't want to miss those people out, but since you're supervisor and/or tutor will be reading and/or marking your dissertation, it's important to thank them properly. You should even do this if your supervisor is useless or close to useless; there are many such cases, unfortunately. Where this happens, dig deep and just make the 'thank you' a simple one. However, if you're one of the lucky ones and have a lot of people to thank, the thanking move involves two components: (1) identifying who to thank and (2) explaining how they helped you. Whether you put this into a single paragraph or multiple paragraphs is up to you, but students tend to either: (a) thank people one at a time, explaining what each person did; or (b) focus on how people helped (e.g., reading over drafts, giving moral support, providing financial aid, etc.) and include which individuals helped. It is much less common to see students thanking people based on how these individuals helped them within each part or chapter of the dissertation. This part of the acknowledgments section should probably be around 70% of the total (or 60% if you include an announcing move ). So based on a 100 to 200 word acknowledgments section, you may want to write between 70 and 140 words.

The thanking move involves five steps : (a) write a list of the people that helped you; (b) explain how each person and/or organization helped; (c) decide what order to thank people in; (d) be strategic, thanking key people, even if you feel they let you down in some way; and (e) think about ways to express your thanks.

• STEP ONE: Write a list of the people that helped you
• STEP TWO: Explain how each person and/or organization helped
• STEP THREE: Decide what order to thank people in
• STEP FOUR: Be strategic: Thank key people even if you feel they let you down in some way
• STEP FIVE: Think about ways to express your thanks

STEP ONE Write a list of the people that helped you

Some of the people and/or organisations that may have helped you include:

Dissertation supervisors

You may have been allocated a supervisor(s) at the start of the dissertation process or during the marking stage. The supervisor is often the person that guides you through the dissertation process or is simply involved in marking the dissertation when submitted.

Your personal tutor

Sometimes your personal tutor is also one of your supervisors. However, even if this is not the case, if your personal tutor is active in supporting you, this person should be included.

Other academics

Supervisors and tutors are not always specialists in the subject that you are researching. If you have sought advice from subject specialists within or outside of the department (or even from a different university) it may be worth mentioning this. In some cases, it can lend credibility to your dissertation if an academic expert has provided advice or read through your work.

Organizations

Organizations are often accessed in management research, but also in many other fields. If these organizations have provided you with access to research participants, funding, or some other support, they should be mentioned.

Research participants

Thanking research participants is a tricky one. For ethical reasons, you may not be able to identify who these people were, but they should still be thanked, especially if one of the outcomes of the dissertation is a report that they may read. If ethics allow, you may want to identify particularly helpful people by name.

Financial sponsors

Some undergraduate and master's dissertations are sponsored in some way. Whilst often sponsorship is from family members, if you have been lucky enough to be sponsored by an organization, it is very important to mention this.

Outsource providers

You are sometimes permitted to seek external helped during the dissertation process. This can include the use of a professional proof reader (or other external advisors), a data entry person and/or transcriptionist, a statistics expert, and so forth. It is vital that acknowledgement to such individuals and/or organizations is provided. To avoid accusations of plagiarism and/or cheating, make sure you detail exactly how these individuals helped.

Copyright permissions

Whilst few students doing a dissertation at the undergraduate or master's level seek permission to use lengthy volumes of text, certain tables and diagrams, pictures and so forth, in their work, you should really try and do this. This is certainly the case if you wish to self-publish your dissertation or have it appear within a database such as Master's Abstracts International (MAI). If you have attained permissions, mention those individuals and/or organizations that have given you permission. If you are confused or unsure how to proceed, always refer to the dissertation guidelines provided by your department.

Family and friends

Students sometimes like to thank family and friends.

This is a very personal choice, but if it is important to you, include it.

Stack Exchange Network

Stack Exchange network consists of 183 Q&A communities including Stack Overflow , the largest, most trusted online community for developers to learn, share their knowledge, and build their careers.

Q&A for work

Connect and share knowledge within a single location that is structured and easy to search.

How should I reply and thank a potential supervisor's email? [closed]

This is a mail I received from my potential supervisor who is willing to supervise my PhD study. I want to thank him for the email.

Dear XXX, I would like to know how it goes with your scholarship. Is the schedule already known/clarified? I would be happy if you would keep in touch with me on the further progress of your fellowship.

Is that OK to say Thank you for showing concern or Thank you for your time ?

Please suggest something because I want to write him back with thanks.

• 2 Why do you want to thank him? I'm not saying it's a bad idea, but it seems like he has a personal stake in knowing the outcome of your fellowship application (he wants to know if he has to pay for you or not). So it would make sense for him to be curious about this, and it doesn't mean he's concerned for your general welfare. –  Ben Bitdiddle Commented Nov 20, 2014 at 7:42
• Why not thanking him? It is polite, you are nice to another human being, and it is free. –  Davidmh Commented Nov 20, 2014 at 7:50
• 1 I want to thank him for the email. Just write "Thank you for your email." –  silvado Commented Nov 20, 2014 at 10:42
• 2 This is getting dangerously close to treating this website as a "help me write an email" consulting service. :) –  mako Commented Dec 20, 2014 at 23:08
• 1 This question appears to be off-topic because it is about how to write thank you notes. –  earthling Commented Dec 21, 2014 at 2:59

Dear Joshua (or Dear Prof. Smith or whatever you use to call him), I have submitted all the necessary documents to Agency ABC and I am awaiting the file to be processed. I will let you know whenever I get any more information. They told me that it's expected by the end of November. Since I was assured that the application will be eventually accepted, I would like to ask you if we could meet to discuss the topic of the PhD in more detail, so that I can start to study the related literature. Thanks. Best regards, Charlie

This is just an example of a reply I would make. The level of politeness you choose should reflect your previous communication and your relationship.

As well, you're not going to say that the application is accepted if it is not. So in general, just inform him about the status and show your interest in the cooperation. You don't need to make it long, he's basically asking for a status of the thing and he's most probably expecting a short and on-the-spot reply.

• Can I ask the downvoter what did I do wrong, so that my next answers are better? Thanks. –  yo' Commented Dec 25, 2014 at 23:48

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged phd advisor etiquette email .

• Featured on Meta
• Site maintenance - Mon, Sept 16 2024, 21:00 UTC to Tue, Sept 17 2024, 2:00...
• User activation: Learnings and opportunities
• Join Stack Overflow’s CEO and me for the first Stack IRL Community Event in...

Hot Network Questions

• Single pole switch with two hot wires?
• How can I support a closet rod where there's no shelf?
• Doesn't nonlocality follow from nonrealism in the EPR thought experiment and Bell tests?
• Example of two dinatural transformations between finite categories that do not compose
• The meaning of an implication in an existential quantifier
• Help updating 34 year old document to run with modern LaTeX
• How can I analyze the anatomy of a humanoid species to create sounds for their language?
• Rocky Mountains Elevation Cutout
• What is a natural-sounding verb form for the word dorveille?
• How many engineers/scientists believed that human flight was imminent as of the late 19th/early 20th century?
• What was the main implementation programming language of old 16-bit Windows versions (Windows 1 - Windows 3.11)?
• What prevents indoor climbing gyms from making a v18 boulder even if one hasn't been found outside?
• How can I drill a perpendicular hole through thick lumber using handheld drill?
• In this page of Ein Yaakov on Sotah, near the bottom of the page, appears the word "Piska" in bold lettering. What does it signify?
• Definition of annuity
• How to apply a squared operator to a function?
• Tire schrader core replacement without deflation
• Why my Gunnera Manicata older leaves die?
• Why Pythagorean theorem is all about 2?
• Is Produce Flame a spell that the caster casts upon themself?
• Should I change advisors because mine doesn't object to publishing at MDPI?
• Is it possible for one wing to stall due to icing while the other wing doesn't ice?
• Can I repeat link labels several times on a web page without hurting SEO by using meta attributes?
• Connections vertically and horizontally

Have a language expert improve your writing

Run a free plagiarism check in 10 minutes, generate accurate citations for free.

• Knowledge Base

Email contact with your dissertation supervisor

Published on October 13, 2015 by Sarah Vinz . Revised on August 24, 2018.

How to best approach your dissertation supervisor via email can vary by supervisor. For example, some supervisors are fine with being addressed by their first name, while others would prefer that you only use their title and surname.

Table of contents

The style and tone of your message, addressing your supervisor, keep it short and sweet, no response from your supervisor, formal or informal, receive feedback on language, structure, and formatting.

Professional editors proofread and edit your paper by focusing on:

• Academic style
• Vague sentences
• Style consistency

See an example

Checklist: Formal email contact

Use an appropriate salutation. Example:  Dear Dr. X,

Explain the purpose of your email. Example: I am writing in follow-up to our meeting on Monday.

Be brief and clear about exactly what you want to say or ask. Example:  I have made the changes that we agreed on. Could you please check and confirm them?

Express your appreciation in advance. Example:  Thanks in advance for your help.

Use an appropriate closing. Example: Sincerely,

Your email looks appropriately formal.

In your first email contact with your dissertation supervisor, it is wise to address him or her quite formally (such as “Dear Dr. X” or “Dear Prof. Y”). You do not know what your supervisor will be comfortable with, so it is best to play it safe.

If your initial contact is too informal, your supervisor may get the wrong impression and start to question your professionalism and attitude.

If your supervisor’s response to your email closes with only his or her first name (such as “Sincerely, Ken”), you can assume that it is okay to address him or her by first name in your next message. To be extra safe, you can also wait until you have received a few more messages where he or she has closed in this way.

Examples of salutations and closings

Email signature

It is generally not necessary to use an email signature when corresponding with your supervisor. However, if your program requires that you do so or if it is your personal preference, you can use the following model:

• Name (first and surname)
• Educational institution
• Phone number
• Email address

Flawless writing

What is important in all cases is that your message is error-free. Make sure you use proper English (or whichever language is appropriate) and that you do not make any grammatical or spelling errors. Before you send a message to your supervisor, you are strongly advised to re-read the text carefully or even to have someone else read it, too.

A neat and accurate message shows your supervisor that you are both professional and serious about your project.

Dissertation supervisors are often busy people who are involved in many things at the same time. It is therefore important to be as clear and specific as possible in your messages, so they can quickly see what your problem is and then react.

Tips for writing clear and maintaining smooth contact

• Make sure you stick to only things that are relevant to your dissertation. For example, do not share stories from your personal life with your supervisor (unless they are important with regard to your results).
• Formulate your questions as clearly and concisely as possible , so that your supervisor understands what you want and can respond quickly.
• Do not ask long or complicated questions in an email; saving these queries for times when you have more personal contact will make things easier for both of you. You will spare your supervisor the time that he or she would need to reply in writing. On your side, asking such questions face-to-face allows you to get more comprehensive answers and to ask follow-up questions if you do not understand something.
• Give your supervisor enough time to respond. For example, don’t send questions the night before you have to submit something; do it a few days in advance instead.
• Always respond as quickly as possible to messages from your supervisor (when relevant). This includes confirming any appointments your supervisor proposes, answering all of his or her questions, indicating things you don’t understand and providing any information that he or she requests.
• The responsibility for writing the dissertation is yours. Instead of waiting for your supervisor to make contact, take the initiative to make an appointment. This is also better for your supervisor, because it shows him or her that you are serious about your project.

Confirming appointments via email

If you arrange something about an appointment with your supervisor verbally, it is smart to still confirm it via email. You then have something in writing to fall back on if any issues arise.

Similarly, it is also a good idea to summarize what you have agreed on, such as deadlines and matters relating to substantive issues. Ask your supervisor to check and confirm your notes, so that you are both 100% clear on where you stand.

See some sample emails

Here's why students love Scribbr's proofreading services

Discover proofreading & editing

Supervisors will generally always respond to your messages, but some are faster than others. If you do not get a reply, first think about whether there could be an obvious reason for the delay, such as that it is already late in the evening, it’s the weekend, or it’s a holiday.

Also note that not all supervisors are available five days a week. You can often find out what days your supervisor is available through your school. Before taking any action, consider how fast you need an answer. You don’t want to appear too impatient to your supervisor.

If you really cannot wait any longer or you haven’t heard anything from your supervisor in several days, send a polite reminder email. You can either briefly restate your question or refer to your previous message.

If you still do not get a response, try contacting your program or university. A department secretary can often connect you with your supervisor.

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

Vinz, S. (2018, August 24). Email contact with your dissertation supervisor. Scribbr. Retrieved September 9, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/tips/e-mail-contact-with-your-dissertation-supervisor/

Is this article helpful?

Sarah's academic background includes a Master of Arts in English, a Master of International Affairs degree, and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. She loves the challenge of finding the perfect formulation or wording and derives much satisfaction from helping students take their academic writing up a notch.

What is your plagiarism score?

Words at Ease

How to Thank a Professor (20 Cool Samples)

Professors pour their hearts and soul into educating and mentoring students.

They spend countless hours preparing lectures, grading assignments, advising on projects, and supporting students’ personal and professional growth.

When a professor goes above and beyond or makes a meaningful impact on your life, expressing your gratitude is a thoughtful gesture that they will undoubtedly appreciate.

But what’s the best way to say thank you to a professor?

How can you express your appreciation in a way that feels genuine and captures the impact they’ve had on you?

We’ve put together 20 sample thank-you messages to help inspire you, along with tips for other meaningful gestures of gratitude.

How to Thank a Professor

Your thank you message can take many forms—a heartfelt email, a handwritten note, a small gift, or a few sincere words spoken in person.

The key is to be specific about what you appreciate and the impact it had on you.

Here are 20 examples to help you craft the perfect thank you:

1. The Lifelong Impact

Professor [Name],

I wanted to express my heartfelt gratitude for everything you’ve taught me in [class name]. Your passion for [subject] and dedication to your students are truly inspiring. Your [specific lesson/assignment/advice] fundamentally changed the way I think about [topic] and I know the critical thinking skills you’ve instilled will serve me well throughout my life and career. Thank you for being an extraordinary teacher and mentor. I feel incredibly fortunate to have learned from you.

With gratitude,

[Your Name]

Commentary: This message highlights how the professor’s influence extends beyond just the course material to lifelong skills and perspectives. It’s suitable for an end-of-term email or handwritten note to a professor who had a transformative impact on you.

2. The Encouraging Mentor

Dear Dr. [Name],

I can’t thank you enough for your encouragement and guidance this semester. Whenever I doubted myself or felt overwhelmed, you were there with a pep talk or helpful advice to get me back on track. Your belief in me gave me the confidence to [specific accomplishment]. I’m so grateful for your support and mentorship. Thank you for always having your door open and investing in your students’ success.

Commentary: This message focuses on the professor’s role as a supportive mentor. It works well as an email or handwritten note when a professor has gone out of their way to encourage and advise you.

3. The Engaging Lecturer

I just wanted to say thank you for making [notoriously difficult/boring subject] engaging and fun to learn. Your lectures are hands down the most interesting and well-crafted I’ve experienced in my [#] years at [university name]. The way you [bring in real-world examples/incorporate multimedia/crack jokes] keeps the whole class on the edge of their seats. I used to dread [subject] but you’ve transformed it into my favorite class. Thank you for being an amazing educator!

Commentary: This message spotlights the professor’s skill at engaging students, even in challenging subjects. It’s ideal as a mid-semester email or comment in a course evaluation for a professor whose lectures leave you excited to learn more.

4. The Patient Explainer

Hi Professor [Name],

I wanted to shoot you a quick note to say thank you for taking the time to walk me through [tricky concept] after class today. I’ve been struggling to wrap my head around it for weeks, but the way you broke it down step-by-step made it finally click. I appreciate your patience and willingness to work through it with me one-on-one until I get it. Thank you for going the extra mile for your students!

Commentary: This message appreciates a professor’s dedication to making sure students truly grasp the material. It’s perfect as a quick email or verbal thanks after they’ve patiently walked you through a challenging concept.

5. The Inspiring Role Model

Dear Professor [Name],

You’ve been an extraordinary role model to me and so many other students. Your accomplishments in [field] are awe-inspiring, but it’s your generosity in sharing your wisdom and experience with the next generation that truly sets you apart. Your stories and advice have shaped my career aspirations and shown me the kind of [professional/researcher/engineer/etc.] I hope to become one day. Thank you for exemplifying the very best of what an educator and [profession] can be.

With admiration,

Commentary: This message positions the professor as an inspiring role model. It’s fitting as a longer email, handwritten note, or even part of a nomination for a teaching award for a professor who embodies the ideals of their field.

6. The Recommendation Writer

Thank you so much for writing me such a glowing recommendation letter for [opportunity]. I know how busy you are and I deeply appreciate you taking the time to advocate for me so strongly. [1-2 sentences on the results, e.g. “Thanks to your recommendation, I was accepted into my dream graduate program” or “The hiring manager mentioned how impressed she was by your letter”.] Your support means the world to me. I couldn’t have done it without you in my corner!

With deep gratitude,

Commentary: This message thanks a professor for writing a stellar recommendation letter. Send it as an email or handwritten note as soon as you get good news that the recommendation helped you achieve.

7. The Second Chance

Dr. [Name],

Thank you for giving me a second chance on [assignment/exam]. I take full responsibility for [reason for poor initial performance] and I’m grateful you’re allowing me the opportunity to try again and improve my grade. Your willingness to work with me shows how much you care about your student’s learning and success. I appreciate your flexibility and commitment to helping us grow. I won’t let you down!

Commentary: This message expresses gratitude for a professor’s willingness to let you make up or redo an assignment. Send it as an email as soon as they grant you a second chance.

8. The Thoughtful Feedback

Hi, Dr. [Name],

I just wanted to say thank you for the incredibly thoughtful and detailed feedback you gave me on my [paper/project/etc.]. I’ve never had a professor dive so deep and offer such constructive insights before. Your comments pushed me to think about [topic] in a whole new way and spurred ideas for how to take my work to the next level. I appreciate you taking the time to engage so thoroughly with my work. Your feedback will stick with me moving forward!

Commentary: This message spotlights a professor’s dedication to providing meaningful, personalized feedback. It works well as a quick email reply to their comments or an in-person thank you at the end of a meeting discussing your work.

9. The Transformative Class

As the semester comes to a close, I wanted to share what an incredible impact your [class name] course has had on me. I came into this class feeling [nervous/unsure/skeptical] about [subject], but your teaching has ignited a newfound passion in me. The way you [pushed us to think critically/exposed us to cutting-edge ideas/made complex concepts relatable] has truly transformed my perspective. I’m leaving your course not only with a deep knowledge of [subject] but a drive to keep learning more. Thank you for an unforgettable and life-changing class!

Commentary: This message expresses how the professor’s class reshaped your mindset and ignited your enthusiasm for the subject. It’s perfect as an end-of-term email or handwritten note for a class that shifted your worldview.

10. The Timely Help

I can’t thank you enough for your help with [issue] this week. When [crisis/challenge], you [dropped everything to meet with me/rapidly responded to my email/advocated on my behalf], even though I know you’re juggling a million other responsibilities. Your swift action and support made all the difference in my [getting through this/figuring out a solution]. I’m so grateful to have a professor who cares so much about their students’ well-being, both in and outside the classroom. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.

Commentary: This message thanks a professor for stepping up to help you through a challenging situation promptly. Send it as an email or say it in person as soon as the crisis has passed.

11. The Office Hours Stalwart

You are hands down the MVP of office hours. No matter how many students are lined up outside your door or how many inane questions we pepper you with, you always greet everyone with a warm smile and infinite patience. I’ve never left your office without feeling heard, supported, and a heck of a lot clearer on [subject]. Thank you for being so generous with your time and wisdom. I know I speak for the whole class when I say we absolutely couldn’t do this without you!

Commentary: This message spotlights the professor’s commitment to helping students during office hours. It works well as an email near the end of term or scribbled on a thank you card handed to them at the close of a lengthy office hours session.

12. The Compassionate Ear

Thank you for your compassion and understanding during this [difficult time/personal crisis]. When I [disclosed/shared] my situation with you, your response was so full of empathy and care. You made me feel truly heard and supported. I deeply appreciate your flexibility with [deadlines/attendance] as I navigated this challenge. Your kindness made an enormous difference during one of the hardest moments I’ve faced. I can’t express how grateful I am to have an instructor who treats students with such humanity. Thank you for being there for me.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Commentary: This message thanks a professor for supporting you with compassion through a personal hardship. Send it as an email or handwritten note once you’ve emerged from the crisis and have had a chance to reflect on its impact.

13. The Captivating Storyteller

I just had to shoot you a note to say how much I adore the way you weave stories into your lectures. The tale you told today about [story topic] and how it relates to [course concept] was utterly captivating. I was on the edge of my seat, hanging onto every word. You have an incredible gift for bringing [subject] to life through your stories. They make the material so much richer and more memorable. Thank you for being hands down the most engaging storyteller and teacher I’ve ever had!

Commentary: This message highlights the professor’s knack for engaging students through storytelling. It’s perfect as a quick email or comment after a particularly riveting lecture.

14. The Invested Advisor

I wanted to express my heartfelt thanks for being such an incredible [thesis/research] advisor. Your [vast expertise/incisive questions/spot-on suggestions] have strengthened my work immeasurably, but it’s your unwavering support and enthusiasm that I appreciate most of all. You’ve gone above and beyond, [meeting with me weekly/connecting me to resources/advocating for my project], even amid your whirlwind schedule. I know my [thesis/research] would not be where it is without your guidance. Thank you for investing so much in me and my work!

Commentary: This message underscores the pivotal role a professor has played as an advisor. It’s fitting for a longer email near the end of the advising relationship or as part of the acknowledgments section of your thesis or publication.

15. The Grad School Guru

I can’t thank you enough for all your help with my grad school applications. From [offering to write recommendations/reviewing my essays/talking through programs], your support and guidance have been game-changing. [I got into my top choice program, and I know your advice and advocacy played a huge part/The application process felt infinitely less daunting with you in my corner]. Thank you for taking the time to share your wisdom and champion your students, even after they’ve left your classroom. I’m so grateful to have had you as a mentor through this journey!

Commentary: This message thanks a professor for supporting you through the graduate school application process. Send it as an email after you’ve submitted your applications or received good news about acceptances.

16. The Conference Connection

Thank you so much for encouraging me to submit my work to [conference name] and putting me in touch with [person]. Presenting at the conference was an incredible opportunity. I left feeling energized, inspired, and more connected to my field than ever. Your confidence in my research and willingness to open doors mean the world to me. Thank you for investing in my growth as a [scholar/professional] and paving the way for experiences like this. I’m deeply grateful for your support and mentorship!

Commentary: This message expresses gratitude for a professor who facilitated a meaningful conference experience. Send it as an email or say it in person once you’ve returned from the event and had a chance to reflect.

17. The Real-World Relevance Revealer

I just wanted to say thank you for an incredible semester in [class name]. I’ve never had a class feel so relevant and applicable to my life and future career. The way you tied every concept to real-world examples and pushed us to grapple with current issues in [field] made the material come alive. I feel like I’m leaving your course with knowledge and skills I can put to use from day one in my [career/post-grad plans]. Thank you for preparing me so well for my next steps! Your impact will stick with me long beyond the final exam.

Gratefully,

Commentary: This message appreciates a professor’s skill at connecting course content to real-world relevance. It works well as an end-of-term email or thoughtful note for a professor whose class felt particularly preparatory for your future.

18. The Recommendation Follow-Up

Last semester, you graciously wrote me a recommendation letter for [opportunity]. I wanted to follow up and share that [update, e.g.”I was accepted!” or “I ended up pursuing a different path, but…”]. I deeply appreciate you taking the time and care to advocate for me. Your belief in me means more than you know. [Even though this particular role wasn’t the right fit, your support gave me the confidence to keep chasing after my goals./I truly couldn’t have gotten here without your support.] Thank you again for being an incredible mentor. I feel so fortunate to have you in my corner.

Commentary: This message follows up on an opportunity a professor supported you for through a recommendation. Send it as an email once you have an outcome to share, even if it’s not the one you expected when requesting the rec.

19. The TA Supervisor Appreciation

Before the semester ends, I wanted to thank you for being such a fantastic supervisor and mentor during my time as your TA. I’ve learned so much about [teaching/subject/field] from watching you work and hearing your advice. Your [patience/high standards/pedagogical expertise] have made me a more [confident/knowledgeable/effective] teacher in my own right. Thank you for demonstrating what engaging and rigorous instruction looks like, both for me and our students. It’s been a joy and an honor to TA for you!

Commentary: This message recognizes a professor’s impact as a TA supervisor. It’s suitable for an end-of-term email or could even be expanded into part of a teaching award nomination letter.

20. The Final Farewell

As I prepare to graduate, I wanted to say one last thank you for the indelible impact you’ve had on my [college experience/growth as a student/path as a professional]. From [specific course] to [memorable interaction], your [wisdom/passion/guidance] has shaped my journey in countless ways. I am so grateful to have learned from you, both in the classroom and beyond. [I hope this isn’t goodbye, but rather the start of a new chapter in our relationship/While I’m sad to say goodbye, I know I carry your lessons with me/I’ll always look back on my time in your classes as some of the most transformative moments of my education]. Thank you for being an extraordinary teacher, mentor, and role model. I’m forever grateful.

Yours truly,

Commentary: This message offers a heartfelt thanks to a professor who was particularly influential throughout your college career. Send it as an email or handwritten note before graduation, perhaps with an invitation to keep in touch or grab a coffee if they’re open to an ongoing mentorship relationship.

Other Meaningful Gestures of Appreciation

In addition to expressing your thanks in writing or in person, there are several other thoughtful ways to show your gratitude to an exceptional professor:

• Nominate them for a teaching award or recognition within the department or university
• Participate actively in class, engaging with the material and showing your enthusiasm for their teaching
• Recommend their course to other students or write a glowing review on course evaluation sites
• Take their lessons forward, apply their wisdom to your life and future coursework, and share with them how you’re embodying their teachings
• Stay in touch, updating them on your post-grad path and expressing your ongoing appreciation for their impact

Wrapping Up

Letting an outstanding professor know the difference they’ve made in your education is a meaningful gesture they’ll undoubtedly cherish.

Whether you express your gratitude in a heartfelt note, a face-to-face thanks, or through your continued growth and success, taking a moment to say thank you can strengthen your bond and bring a smile to your face.

Never underestimate the power of a sincere word of appreciation to make an educator feel valued in their vital work.

To all the professors going above and beyond: thank you for transforming lives, one student at a time.