Acknowledgement for Dissertation [With Example]

Writing a dissertation is a significant academic undertaking that requires extensive research, critical analysis, and original contributions to the chosen field of study. In the process of crafting a comprehensive dissertation, it is essential to recognize the individuals and institutions that have supported and contributed to the successful completion of the work. This is where acknowledgement play a crucial role.

What is acknowledgement in dissertation?

Acknowledgement in dissertation allows the author to recognize and thank the individuals and organizations who contributed to the completion of the dissertation. Whether it’s a mentor, advisor, family member, or funding agency, acknowledging their support and assistance is not only a professional courtesy, but also an important aspect of academic integrity.

Acknowledgement provides a personal touch to a scholarly document, highlighting the relationships and networks that underpin the research and writing process. In this article, we will delve into the significance of acknowledgements in dissertation writing and explore how to effectively craft this section to show appreciation for those who have contributed to the research. 

How to write acknowledgement for dissertation?

When writing acknowledgement, it is important to consider cultural considerations, length, and tone to ensure that contributors are appropriately acknowledged. Acknowledgement should be respectful and inclusive of diverse cultural backgrounds, recognizing the unique contributions that individuals from different cultures bring to the project.

When writing acknowledgement, it is important to strike the right balance between brevity and comprehensiveness. While it is important to acknowledge all contributors, it is equally important to keep the acknowledgement concise and focused.

In terms of length, acknowledgement should be kept to a page or less, and should not overshadow the main content of the work. It is crucial to maintain a formal and professional tone in acknowledgements, avoiding overly casual language or personal anecdotes.

In acknowledging contributors appropriately, it is essential to follow these steps:

• Identify all individuals who have made significant contributions to the project, including researchers, advisors, and funders.
• Clearly specify the nature of each individual’s contribution, whether it be through research, financial support, or guidance.
• Use a formal and respectful tone when expressing gratitude, using appropriate titles and honorifics where applicable.
• Be mindful of the cultural backgrounds of contributors and ensure that acknowledgements are sensitive to any cultural considerations.
• Check for accuracy and completeness, ensuring that all contributors are properly acknowledged and that their contributions are accurately represented.

Sample Acknowledgement for Dissertation

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my supervisor, Professor John Smith, for his invaluable guidance, feedback, and support throughout my research. His extensive knowledge and experience were instrumental in the completion of this dissertation.

I am also extremely thankful to my co-supervisor, Dr Jane Doe, for her insightful suggestions and encouragement over the years. Her critical questions and comments pushed me to sharpen my thinking and brought greater depth to this work.

In addition, I wish to acknowledge the generous financial support of the University Scholarship Committee. Without their funding, this research project would not have been feasible.

My appreciation also goes out to the library staff for their assistance in accessing various resources, and the IT support team for their help with the technological aspects of my project. Their collective efforts enabled me to conduct my research efficiently.

I would also like to mention my friends and family for their incredible understanding, patience, and backing during this PhD journey. They kept me grounded and reminded me there is life outside my research bubble.

Finally, I dedicate this dissertation to my parents, who instilled in me from a young age the value of education and supported me every step of the way. Their unwavering belief in my abilities inspired me to set high goals and work diligently towards achieving them.

Acknowledgement for Dissertation Example

The above acknowledgement credit goes to Sample Dissertation Format PDF published by University of Stirling, UK

Dos and Don’ts of Writing Acknowledgement for Dissertation

Do:

• Express sincere gratitude to your advisor/supervisor for their guidance and support. Use their full name and title (e.g. Professor John Smith).
• Thank other faculty members who served on your committee and provided feedback.
• Acknowledge any grants/financial support received. Mention the specific grant names and funding organizations.
• Recognize contributions from individuals who assisted with research or provided technical help (e.g. lab technicians, statisticians, editors).
• Mention family members and friends who provided moral support or encouragement.
• Use formal academic language and adopt a respectful tone.

Don’t:

• Forget to thank someone important. Make a list of all those who helped you.
• Use overly casual language or inside jokes. Maintain a professional style.
• Get too personal sharing private details about relationships or health. Keep it focused.
• Ramble on too long. Stick to 1-2 paragraphs maximum.
• Sound insincere or use clichéd expressions of gratitude. Customize for your situation.
• Make it all about you and your efforts. Shift focus to thanking others.
• Mention political or controversial topics unrelated to the research.

Related: Acknowledgement for Thesis [Sample and Best Practice]

Final Thoughts

Acknowledgement in a dissertation go beyond mere formality; they embody the collaborative essence of academic research. As you conclude your dissertation journey, reflecting on acknowledgements underscores the importance of gratitude and collaboration in scholarly pursuits.

Authenticity and sincerity should guide your acknowledgement. They represent connections forged and lessons learned, honoring the diverse network of support behind your academic endeavor.

In crafting acknowledgement, remember mentors, loved ones, and institutions whose contributions shaped your research. Each acknowledgment weaves a thread in the tapestry of academia, reminding us of the interconnectedness of scholarly pursuits.

May your acknowledgement serve as a tribute to the collaborative spirit of academia and inspire gratitude and humility in future scholarly endeavors.