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Thesis & Dissertation Acknowledgements | Tips & Examples

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

Acknowledgements-section

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

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

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

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

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Table of contents

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

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

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

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

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

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

Professional acknowledgements

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

A few things to keep in mind include:

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

Personal acknowledgements

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

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

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

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

How to phrase your acknowledgements

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

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

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

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

Acknowledgements

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

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

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

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

Don’t:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Acknowledgement for Paper Publication (10 Samples)

July 11, 2023

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By Mohsin Khurshid

Acknowledgement for paper publication is a crucial aspect that recognizes the contributions and support received throughout the research process. It holds significant value in academic papers, showcasing appreciation for the individuals and institutions that have played a role in the study’s success. In this article, we will delve into the importance of acknowledgement in paper publication and provide 10 comprehensive samples to guide you in crafting impactful acknowledgements for your own research. Whether you wish to acknowledge research collaborators, funding sources, mentors, or other individuals who have contributed to your work, these samples will assist you in expressing your gratitude effectively. Join us as we explore the art of acknowledgement and discover how to create acknowledgements that resonate with the collaborative nature of scholarly endeavors.

Table of Contents

  • 1 Understanding the Importance of Acknowledgement
  • 2.1 Sample 1 – Acknowledgement for Research Collaboration
  • 2.2 Sample 2 – Acknowledgement for Funding Support
  • 2.3 Sample 3 – Acknowledgement for Mentorship and Guidance
  • 2.4 Sample 4 – Acknowledgement for Institutional Support
  • 2.5 Sample 5 – Acknowledgement for Peer Reviewers
  • 2.6 Sample 6 – Acknowledgement for Data and Materials
  • 2.7 Sample 7 – Acknowledgement for Technical Assistance
  • 2.8 Sample 8 – Acknowledgement for Editorial or Proofreading Assistance
  • 2.9 Sample 9 – Acknowledgement for Inspiration and Support
  • 2.10 Sample 10 – Acknowledgement for Personal Support
  • 4 Conclusion

Understanding the Importance of Acknowledgement

Acknowledgement plays a crucial role in academic papers, serving multiple purposes within the scholarly community. Firstly, it provides an opportunity for authors to express gratitude and appreciation towards individuals, organizations, or institutions that have contributed to the research project in various ways. These contributions can include financial support, data collection assistance, intellectual guidance, or access to resources.

Beyond mere gratitude, acknowledgement serves as a means of giving credit where it is due. It recognizes the valuable input and collaboration of others, ensuring that their contributions are acknowledged and acknowledged by the academic community. By acknowledging the efforts of others, researchers uphold the principles of academic integrity and promote transparency in the research process.

Ethical considerations are also an integral part of writing an acknowledgement section. Authors must carefully navigate issues such as conflicts of interest, ensuring that they disclose any potential conflicts and maintain objectivity in their acknowledgements. Additionally, it is essential to respect the privacy and confidentiality of individuals mentioned in the acknowledgement, seeking their permission before including their names or affiliations.

Conventions related to acknowledgement may vary across disciplines and academic journals. Authors should familiarize themselves with the specific guidelines and requirements of their target journal to ensure compliance. Some journals may provide templates or specific instructions on how to structure the acknowledgement section, while others may have specific word limits or content restrictions.

In summary, understanding the importance of acknowledgement in academic papers is crucial for researchers. It serves as a means of expressing gratitude, giving credit to contributors, upholding academic integrity, and adhering to ethical considerations. By following conventions and guidelines specific to their field, authors can effectively convey their appreciation and recognition in the acknowledgement section of their paper.

10 Samples of Acknowledgement for Paper Publication

Explore these detailed samples of acknowledgements to effectively acknowledge contributors in your research papers.

Sample 1 – Acknowledgement for Research Collaboration

Acknowledging the collaborative efforts and contributions of research team members is a crucial aspect of the acknowledgement section in academic papers. The following is a detailed sample acknowledgement that demonstrates how to acknowledge research collaborators and team members:

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the members of the research team who contributed to the successful completion of this study. Their dedication, expertise, and commitment were instrumental in the realization of our research objectives. I am thankful for their valuable insights, collaborative spirit, and unwavering support throughout the project.

I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to [Name], [Name], and [Name] for their invaluable contributions to the data collection process. Their meticulous efforts ensured the accuracy and reliability of our research findings. Additionally, I am grateful to [Name] for their assistance in data analysis and interpretation, which greatly enhanced the depth and quality of our research outcomes.

Furthermore, I would like to acknowledge the guidance and mentorship provided by [Name]. Their expertise in [area of expertise] was invaluable in shaping the direction of this research and refining our methodology. Their constructive feedback and insightful suggestions played a pivotal role in elevating the overall quality of this study.

I am also indebted to the support staff and administrators who facilitated the smooth operation of our research activities. Their assistance in securing necessary permissions, organizing logistics, and managing administrative tasks was vital to the success of this project.

Lastly, I would like to express my deep appreciation to the funding agency or organization that provided financial support for this research. Their investment in our work enabled us to conduct this study and make meaningful contributions to the field.

In conclusion, I am immensely grateful to all the individuals who contributed to this research collaboration. Their dedication, expertise, and unwavering support have been instrumental in the accomplishment of our research goals. Without their invaluable contributions, this study would not have been possible.

Sample 2 – Acknowledgement for Funding Support

Acknowledging the financial support received for research is an important aspect of the acknowledgement section in academic papers. The following is a detailed sample acknowledgement that demonstrates how to acknowledge funding support:

I would like to express my sincere appreciation to [Funding Agency/Organization] for their generous financial support of this research project. Their funding played a crucial role in the successful execution of this study and the attainment of our research goals.

The support provided by [Funding Agency/Organization] enabled us to conduct data collection, analysis, and interpretation, as well as cover expenses related to research materials, participant recruitment, and travel, where applicable. Their investment in our work has significantly contributed to the quality and impact of our research findings.

I would also like to extend my gratitude to the grant administrators and program officers at [Funding Agency/Organization] for their guidance and assistance throughout the grant application and management process. Their expertise and support were invaluable in ensuring a smooth and efficient funding experience.

Furthermore, I am grateful to my research team members and collaborators who have contributed their time, expertise, and efforts to this project. Their dedication and hard work have been instrumental in the successful completion of this research.

In conclusion, I am deeply thankful to [Funding Agency/Organization] for their financial support, without which this research would not have been possible. Their investment in our work has made a significant impact and has contributed to advancements in the field. I am truly grateful for their commitment to supporting research and fostering academic growth.

Sample 3 – Acknowledgement for Mentorship and Guidance

Acknowledging the contributions of mentors and advisors is essential in recognizing the guidance and support they have provided throughout the research process. The following is a detailed sample acknowledgement that demonstrates how to acknowledge mentorship and guidance:

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my mentor, [Mentor’s Name], for their invaluable guidance, expertise, and support throughout the course of this research. Their extensive knowledge, insightful feedback, and unwavering encouragement have been instrumental in shaping the direction and quality of this study.

I am truly grateful for [Mentor’s Name]’s dedication and commitment to my academic growth. Their mentorship has not only expanded my understanding of the subject matter but has also enhanced my research skills and critical thinking abilities. Their willingness to invest their time and effort in providing guidance and constructive criticism has greatly contributed to the successful completion of this research project.

I would also like to extend my appreciation to [Advisor’s Name] for their valuable input and advice throughout the research process. Their expertise in [specific field or area] has been invaluable in shaping the methodology and interpretation of the findings. Their constructive feedback and thoughtful suggestions have significantly enhanced the quality and rigor of this study.

Furthermore, I would like to acknowledge the contributions of other members of my research committee, [Committee Member 1’s Name] and [Committee Member 2’s Name]. Their expertise and insights have provided valuable perspectives and have contributed to the overall excellence of this research.

In conclusion, I am sincerely grateful to my mentor, [Mentor’s Name], and my advisor, [Advisor’s Name], for their unwavering support and guidance. Their mentorship and expertise have been transformative in my academic journey, and I am privileged to have had the opportunity to learn from their wisdom and experience.

Sample 4 – Acknowledgement for Institutional Support

Acknowledging the support and resources provided by institutions is crucial in recognizing their contribution to the research project. The following is a detailed sample acknowledgement that demonstrates how to acknowledge institutional support:

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to [Institution’s Name] for their unwavering support and provision of resources throughout the course of this research. The research facilities and infrastructure provided by [Institution’s Name] have played a significant role in the successful completion of this study.

I am grateful for the access to state-of-the-art laboratories, research materials, and technological resources offered by [Institution’s Name]. These resources have been instrumental in conducting experiments, gathering data, and analyzing findings. The research environment provided by [Institution’s Name] has fostered an atmosphere of innovation and collaboration, allowing for the pursuit of academic excellence.

I would also like to extend my appreciation to the administrative staff and personnel at [Institution’s Name] for their assistance and support throughout the research process. Their responsiveness and willingness to provide guidance on administrative matters have been invaluable.

Furthermore, I would like to acknowledge the financial support provided by [Institution’s Name]. The research grants and scholarships awarded by [Institution’s Name] have enabled the realization of this project and have alleviated the financial constraints associated with conducting research.

In conclusion, I am deeply grateful to [Institution’s Name] for their unwavering support, provision of resources, and financial assistance. Their commitment to promoting research and academic excellence has been instrumental in the successful completion of this study.

Sample 5 – Acknowledgement for Peer Reviewers

Acknowledging the contributions of peer reviewers is essential in recognizing their valuable feedback and input towards improving the quality of the research. The following is a detailed sample acknowledgement that demonstrates how to acknowledge peer reviewers:

I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the anonymous peer reviewers who generously dedicated their time and expertise to review and provide constructive feedback on this research paper. Their insightful comments and suggestions have significantly enhanced the quality and rigor of this study.

The meticulous review process conducted by the peer reviewers has played a crucial role in strengthening the methodology, refining the arguments, and improving the overall clarity and coherence of the research. Their expertise and critical evaluation have helped in identifying and addressing potential gaps, ensuring the accuracy and validity of the findings.

I am grateful for the valuable contributions made by the peer reviewers in shaping this paper into its final form. Their commitment to scholarly excellence and their dedication to advancing the field have been instrumental in improving the quality and impact of this research.

While their identities remain anonymous, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to each and every peer reviewer who played a part in the review process. Their time, expertise, and feedback are deeply appreciated.

Sample 6 – Acknowledgement for Data and Materials

Acknowledging the sources of data, materials, or tools used in the research is crucial to give proper credit and recognition. The following is a detailed sample acknowledgement that demonstrates how to acknowledge data and materials:

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to [Name/Organization] for providing access to the [Specify the data/materials/tools] used in this research. Their contribution has been invaluable in facilitating the data collection process and enabling the analysis conducted in this study.

The [Specify the data/materials/tools] have played a pivotal role in the success of this research, providing essential insights, information, and resources that have contributed to the depth and quality of the findings. Without their support and cooperation, this research would not have been possible.

I am deeply appreciative of the efforts made by [Name/Organization] in making the [Specify the data/materials/tools] available and ensuring their reliability and relevance to the research objectives. Their commitment to data sharing and collaborative research has greatly enriched the outcomes of this study.

I would also like to extend my gratitude to the individuals involved in the collection, organization, and maintenance of the [Specify the data/materials/tools]. Their dedication and professionalism have been instrumental in making these resources accessible and usable for this research.

Sample 7 – Acknowledgement for Technical Assistance

Acknowledging the individuals or organizations that provided technical assistance is essential to recognize their contributions. The following is a detailed sample acknowledgement that demonstrates how to acknowledge technical support:

I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to [Name/Organization] for their invaluable technical assistance throughout the course of this research. Their expertise and support have played a crucial role in the successful execution of this project.

The technical assistance provided by [Name/Organization] has been instrumental in overcoming various challenges and ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the experimental procedures. Their guidance and knowledge have greatly enhanced the quality of the data collected and the interpretation of the results.

I am grateful for their willingness to share their expertise and resources, providing guidance on experimental techniques, troubleshooting technical issues, and offering valuable insights into data analysis. Their assistance has significantly contributed to the overall success of this research endeavor.

I would also like to express my gratitude to the individuals within [Name/Organization] who have directly contributed to this project. Their dedication, professionalism, and prompt response to queries have made the research process smoother and more efficient.

Sample 8 – Acknowledgement for Editorial or Proofreading Assistance

Acknowledging the individuals who have contributed to the editing and proofreading process is essential to recognize their valuable contributions. The following is a detailed sample acknowledgement that demonstrates how to acknowledge editorial or proofreading assistance:

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to [Name/Names] for their invaluable assistance in the editing and proofreading of this manuscript. Their keen attention to detail, expertise in language and grammar, and commitment to improving the clarity and readability of the content have significantly enhanced the quality of this work.

The diligent efforts of [Name/Names] in meticulously reviewing the manuscript, suggesting revisions, and providing valuable feedback have played a crucial role in refining the overall structure, organization, and coherence of the document. Their editorial skills have helped to ensure the accuracy and precision of the scientific content, enhancing the credibility and impact of the research findings.

I am deeply appreciative of their dedication and professionalism throughout the editing process. Their constructive criticism, insightful suggestions, and meticulous proofreading have greatly contributed to the refinement of the language, grammar, and style of this manuscript.

I would also like to extend my thanks to [Name/Names] for their timely and efficient collaboration, as well as their willingness to accommodate multiple rounds of revisions. Their commitment to excellence and their commitment to producing a polished final product are greatly appreciated.

Sample 9 – Acknowledgement for Inspiration and Support

Acknowledging the individuals or sources of inspiration that have contributed to the research is important in recognizing their impact on the project. The following is a detailed sample acknowledgement that demonstrates how to acknowledge inspiration and support:

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to [Name/Names] for their unwavering support and inspiration throughout this research endeavor. Their encouragement, guidance, and insightful discussions have been instrumental in shaping the direction and depth of this study.

The unwavering support of [Name/Names] has been a constant source of motivation, providing the necessary encouragement to overcome challenges and pursue innovative ideas. Their expertise, wisdom, and constructive feedback have played a pivotal role in refining the research objectives, methodology, and interpretation of findings.

I am also indebted to [Source/Event/Book/Quote] for serving as a source of inspiration and influencing the conceptual framework of this study. The [Source/Event/Book/Quote] has provided valuable insights and perspectives that have guided my thinking and contributed to the overall development of this research.

Additionally, I would like to acknowledge the support and understanding of my family, friends, and colleagues, whose unwavering belief in my abilities has sustained me throughout this research journey. Their encouragement, understanding, and patience have been invaluable, providing the necessary emotional support and creating an environment conducive to pursuing this endeavor.

Sample 10 – Acknowledgement for Personal Support

Acknowledging the emotional support provided by family, friends, and loved ones is essential in recognizing their role in the research process. The following is a detailed sample acknowledgement that demonstrates how to acknowledge personal support:

I would like to express my deepest appreciation to my family, friends, and loved ones for their unwavering support throughout this research journey. Their love, understanding, and encouragement have been the pillars that have kept me motivated and focused during challenging times.

To my [Family Member(s)], your unwavering belief in me and your constant encouragement have been the driving force behind my pursuit of this research. Your sacrifices, understanding, and patience have provided me with the necessary space and time to dedicate myself to this endeavor. I am forever grateful for your unconditional love and support.

I would also like to extend my gratitude to my dear friends who have been a source of inspiration and motivation. Your unwavering belief in my abilities, your listening ear, and your words of encouragement have given me the strength and confidence to overcome obstacles and pursue this research with dedication.

In addition, I am grateful to [Name(s)] for their continuous support, understanding, and patience. Their presence and unwavering support have provided me with the emotional stability and reassurance needed to navigate through the challenges of this research journey.

Finally, I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to all the participants who generously shared their time, experiences, and insights for this research. Without their willingness to contribute, this study would not have been possible.

Sample Acknowledgement for Personal Support in Paper Publication

Also, read tips and samples on writing acknowledgement for your internship report .

Writing an acknowledgement for a paper involves expressing gratitude to individuals or entities who have contributed to the research. It typically includes mentioning the names, roles, and specific contributions of those being acknowledged.

To acknowledge means to recognize and show appreciation for the contributions or support received. In the context of paper publication, it refers to acknowledging the individuals or organizations that have played a role in the research process.

In an acknowledgement section, you can express gratitude to individuals, institutions, or funding agencies that have supported or contributed to the research. You can mention their names, roles, and specific contributions in a sincere and respectful manner.

The correct spelling of “acknowledge” is A-C-K-N-O-W-L-E-D-G-E.

An acknowledgement statement refers to a written expression of gratitude and appreciation towards individuals or organizations for their contributions or support. It is a way to formally recognize their involvement in the research process and show gratitude for their assistance.

In conclusion, acknowledgement plays a vital role in paper publication, allowing researchers to express gratitude and recognize the contributions of individuals and institutions who have supported their work. By acknowledging research collaborators, mentors, funding sources, peer reviewers, and others, researchers demonstrate their appreciation and foster a sense of community within the academic sphere.

It is important to tailor acknowledgements to the specific research context, considering the unique contributions and support received throughout the research process. Each acknowledgement should reflect the genuine appreciation and recognition of those who have played a significant role in the success of the research.

As researchers, let us not underestimate the power of acknowledgement. It not only acknowledges the contributions of others but also serves as a reminder of the collaborative and interconnected nature of academic work. By expressing gratitude and recognizing the efforts of those who have supported us, we contribute to a positive research culture and encourage further collaboration and support in the academic community . In closing, let us remember that acknowledgement is not just a formality but a sincere gesture of appreciation. It is a way to honor the collaborative nature of research and the individuals and institutions that have contributed to our academic journey. May we continue to acknowledge and support one another as we advance knowledge and make meaningful contributions to our respective fields.

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How to Write Acknowledgement in Research Paper

Sumalatha G

Table of Contents

Writing an acknowledgement in a research paper is an integral part of the process. It is a formal way of expressing gratitude to the individuals and institutions that contributed to the completion of your research.

This section, though not mandatory, holds significant value as it acknowledges the efforts of those who assisted you in the successful completion of your project. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of writing an effective acknowledgement for your research paper.

Introduction

Acknowledgements serve a crucial role in research papers. They not only express gratitude but also provide a sense of credibility to your work. Acknowledging the contributions of others shows that your research is a collective effort, which can enhance the perceived validity of your findings.

Moreover, acknowledgements can also serve as a platform for you to demonstrate your professional courtesy and respect for the individuals and institutions that have supported your research. This can help in fostering positive relationships, which can be beneficial for your future research endeavors.

Who to Acknowledge in Your Research Paper

Deciding who to acknowledge in your research paper can be a challenging task. It is important to ensure that you do not overlook anyone who has contributed to your research. Here are some categories of individuals and institutions that you might consider acknowledging:

Academic Advisors and Supervisors

Your academic advisors and supervisors are likely to be your first point of contact for guidance and support during your research. They provide valuable insights, feedback, and direction, which can significantly influence the outcome of your research.

Therefore, acknowledging them in your research paper is a way of expressing your gratitude for their assistance and guidance. It also shows your respect for their expertise and dedication to your research.

Research Participants and Collaborators

Research participants and collaborators play a crucial role in the success of your research. They provide the data or information necessary for your research, making their contribution invaluable.

Acknowledging them in your research paper is a way of showing your appreciation for their time and effort. It also symbolizes your respect for their contribution to your research.

Funding Bodies and Institutions

Funding bodies and institutions provide the financial support necessary for conducting your research. Without their support, it might be challenging to carry out your research effectively.

Therefore, acknowledging them in your research paper is a way of expressing your gratitude for their financial support. It also shows your appreciation for their trust in your research capabilities.

How to Write Acknowledgements for Your Research Paper

Writing acknowledgements for your research paper involves more than simply listing names. It requires a thoughtful and sincere expression of gratitude. Here are some steps to guide you in writing effective acknowledgements:

Start with the Most Significant Contributions

Begin your acknowledgements by expressing gratitude to those who have made the most significant contributions to your research. This could be your academic advisors, supervisors, or funding bodies. Starting with the most significant contributions helps to set the tone for the rest of your acknowledgements.

Ensure that you express your gratitude sincerely and professionally. Avoid using overly emotional or informal language as this can undermine the professionalism of your acknowledgements.

Acknowledge Other Contributors

After acknowledging the most significant contributors, proceed to acknowledge other individuals and institutions that have supported your research. This could include research participants, collaborators, and other supportive individuals or institutions.

When acknowledging these contributors, be sure to express your gratitude sincerely and professionally. Also, ensure that you acknowledge each contributor individually to show your appreciation for their unique contribution.

Use Appropriate Language and Tone

The language and tone you use in your acknowledgements can significantly influence how they are perceived. Therefore, it is important to use appropriate language and maintain a professional tone throughout your acknowledgements.

Use formal language and avoid using jargon or colloquial expressions. Also, maintain a consistent tone throughout your acknowledgements to ensure that they are coherent and easy to read.

Examples of Acknowledgements in Research Papers

Here are a few examples that demonstrate how to acknowledge different contributors effectively:

"I would like to express my deepest gratitude to my advisor, Professor ABC , for his invaluable guidance and support throughout this research. His expertise and dedication have been a source of inspiration and motivation."

"I am deeply grateful to all the participants who generously shared their time and experiences for this research. Their contributions have been instrumental in the success of this study."

"This research was made possible by the generous funding from ABC Foundation . I am profoundly grateful for their support and trust in my research capabilities."

Writing acknowledgements in a research paper is a thoughtful process that requires careful consideration of who to acknowledge and how to express gratitude. By following the guidelines and examples provided in this article, you can write effective acknowledgements that reflect your appreciation and respect for the contributions of others to your research.

Remember, acknowledgements are more than just a formality. They are an opportunity to express your gratitude and respect for the individuals and institutions that have supported your research journey. So, take the time to write acknowledgements that are sincere, professional, and reflective of your gratitude.

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how to write acknowledgement in research paper

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

The Purpose of Acknowledgements

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

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

Who Should I Acknowledge?

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

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

Professional Acknowledgements

This may include, but is not limited to:

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

Personal Acknowledgements

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

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

How to Write Acknowledgements for PhD Thesis

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

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

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

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

How Long Should My Acknowledgements Be?

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

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

Where Should My Acknowledgements Go?

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

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

Phrases to Help You Get Started

Dissertation acknowledgements example for researchers and PhD students

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

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

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

Thesis Acknowledgement Examples

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

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

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

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

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Acknowledgments and References

Acknowledgments.

This usually follows the Discussion and Conclusions sections. Its purpose is to thank all of the people who helped with the research but did not qualify for authorship (check the target journal’s Instructions for Authors for authorship guidelines). Acknowledge anyone who provided intellectual assistance, technical help (including with writing and editing), or special equipment or materials.

TIP: The International Committee of Medical Journal Editors has detailed guidelines on who to list as an author and who to include in the Acknowledgments that are useful for scientists in all fields.

Some journals request that you use this section to provide information about funding by including specific grant numbers and titles. Check your target journal’s instruction for authors for specific instructions. If you need to include funding information, list the name(s) of the funding organization(s) in full, and identify which authors received funding for what.

As references have an important role in many parts of a manuscript, failure to sufficiently cite other work can reduce your chances of being published. Every statement of fact or description of previous findings requires a supporting reference.

TIP: Be sure to cite publications whose results disagree with yours. Not citing conflicting work will make readers wonder whether you are really familiar with the research literature. Citing conflicting work is also a chance to explain why you think your results are different.

It is also important to be concise. You need to meet all the above needs without overwhelming the reader with too many references—only the most relevant and recent articles need to be cited. There is no correct number of references for a manuscript, but be sure to check the journal’s guidelines to see whether it has limits on numbers of references.

TIP: Never cite a publication based on what you have read in a different publication (such as a review), or based only on the publication’s abstract. These may mislead you and readers. Read the publication itself before you cite it, and then check the accuracy of the citation again before submitting your manuscript.

You should reference other work to:

  • Establish the origin of ideas

When you refer to an idea or theory, it is important to let your readers know which researcher(s) came up with the idea. By citing publications that have influenced your own work, you give credit to the authors and help others evaluate the importance of particular publications. Acknowledging others’ contributions is also an important ethical principle.

  • Justify claims

In a scientific manuscript, all statements must be supported with evidence. This evidence can come from the results of the current research, common knowledge, or from previous publications. A citation after a claim makes it clear which previous study supports the claim.

  • Provide a context for your work

By highlighting related works, citations help show how a manuscript fits into the bigger picture of scientific research. When readers understand what previous studies found and what puzzles or controversies your study relates to, they will better understand the meaning of your work.

  • Show there is interest your field of research

Citations show that other researchers are performing work similar to your own. Having current citations will help journal editors see that there is a potential audience for your manuscript.

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Acknowledgements Example for an Academic Research Paper

Posted by Rene Tetzner | Sep 1, 2021 | How To Get Published | 0 |

Acknowledgements Example for an Academic Research Paper

Acknowledgements Example for an Academic or Scientific Research Paper This example of acknowledgements for a research paper is designed to demonstrate how intellectual, financial and other research contributions should be formally acknowledged in academic and scientific writing. As brief acknowledgements for a research paper, the example gathers contributions of different kinds – intellectual assistance, financial support, image credits etc. – into a single Acknowledgements section. Do note, however, that the formats preferred by some scholarly journals require the separation of certain contributions such as financial support of research into their own sections.

how to write acknowledgement in research paper

Although authors often write acknowledgements hastily, the Acknowledgements section is an important part of a research paper. Acknowledging assistance and contributions establishes your integrity as a researcher as well as your connections and collaborations. It can also help your readers with their own research, affect the influence and impact of the researchers and other professionals you thank, and demonstrate the value and purpose of the agencies that fund your work. The contents of the example I have prepared here are appropriate for a research paper intended for publication in a peer-reviewed journal, but the author, the research project, the manuscript studied, the journal publishing the paper and all those to whom gratitude is extended are entirely fictional. They were created for the purpose of demonstrating the following key concerns when writing the acknowledgements for a formal research paper:

how to write acknowledgement in research paper

•   Writing in the first person (‘I’ for a single author or ‘we’ for two or more) to offer concise but sincere acknowledgements of specific contributions to your research. •   Maintaining formal language, complete sentences and a professional tone to give specific and thorough information about contributions and convey collegial gratitude. •   Expressing respect and appreciation in an appropriate fashion for each and every contribution and avoiding artificial or excessive flattery. •   Using the complete names and preferred name formats for individuals, funding agencies, libraries, businesses and other organisations. Here, for example, I posit that the library holding the relevant manuscript has indicated that the name of the collection (lengthy though it is) should not be abbreviated. •   Acknowledging contributions to your research and paper in the order that best represents the nature and importance of those contributions. The assistance of the author’s mentor comes first here, for instance, whereas the language editor is acknowledged much further down the list. •   Meeting the requirements for acknowledgements set by the journal or other publisher of the research paper. For the example below, the goal is to record all relevant contributions to the research and paper in a single brief Acknowledgements section of 500 words or less – a set of parameters that would suit the acknowledgement requirements or expectations of many academic and scientific journals and even fit into a footnote or endnote if necessary.

how to write acknowledgement in research paper

Example Acknowledgements for an Academic Research Paper This paper and the research behind it would not have been possible without the exceptional support of my supervisor, Lawrence Magister. His enthusiasm, knowledge and exacting attention to detail have been an inspiration and kept my work on track from my first encounter with the log books of British Naval Ships MS VII.2.77 to the final draft of this paper. Margaret Kempis and Matthew Brown, my colleagues at Western University, have also looked over my transcriptions and answered with unfailing patience numerous questions about the language and hands of British Naval Ships MS VII.2.77. Samantha McKenzie, head librarian of the Southern Region Central Collegiate Library Special Collections and Microfilms Department where British Naval Ships MS VII.2.77 currently resides, not only provided colour images of the manuscript overnight, but unexpectedly shared the invaluable information on the book that she has been gathering for almost twenty years. I am also grateful for the insightful comments offered by the anonymous peer reviewers at Books & Texts. The generosity and expertise of one and all have improved this study in innumerable ways and saved me from many errors; those that inevitably remain are entirely my own responsibility.

Studying British Naval Ships MS VII.2.77 has proved extremely costly and I am most thankful for the Western University Doctoral Fellowship that has provided financial support for the larger project from which this paper grew. A travel grant from the Literary Society of the Southern Region turned the hope of working in person with British Naval Ships MS VII.2.77 into a reality, and the generous offer of free accommodation from Ms McKay (Samantha McKenzie’s aunt) allowed me to continue my research with the book much longer than I could have hoped. The final design of the complicated transcription tables in Appendices I–III is the creative and technical work of Sam Stone at A+AcaSciTables.com, and the language and format of the paper have benefited enormously from the academic editing services of Veronica Perfect. Finally, it is with true pleasure that I acknowledge the contributions of my amazing partner, Kendric James, who has given up many a Friday evening and Sunday afternoon to read every version of this paper and the responses it has generated with a combination of compassion and criticism that only he could muster for what he fondly calls ‘my odd obsession with books about the sea.’

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Dissertation acknowledgments [with examples]

how to write acknowledgement in research paper

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.

how to write acknowledgement in research paper

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How to Write Acknowledgement in Research Paper

December 27, 2023

In research papers, acknowledgements play a crucial role in recognizing the contributions and support of individuals or organizations who have helped in the completion of the study. They provide an opportunity to express gratitude towards people who provided guidance, resources, or encouragement during the research process.

Acknowledgements serve several important purposes. Firstly, they acknowledge the intellectual and technical support received, ensuring that credit is given where it is due. Secondly, they foster a sense of collaboration and community by recognizing the efforts of others within the research field. Furthermore, acknowledgements help to establish credibility by showcasing the individuals, institutions, or funding bodies that have contributed to the research.

The importance of acknowledgements goes beyond mere courtesy; they are a record of the network of support that exists within the research community. By recognizing the contributions of others, researchers can foster goodwill and build lasting relationships in their field. As such, it is crucial to understand the significance of acknowledgements and to include them thoughtfully and sincerely in research papers.

What to Include in the Acknowledgements

When writing acknowledgements in a research paper, it is important to consider the key elements that should be included. Here are some points to consider when deciding what to include in your acknowledgements:

  • Mentors and Advisors: Acknowledge the individuals who provided guidance, advice, or supervision throughout the research process. This could include your research advisor, committee members, or other mentors who played a significant role in shaping your work.
  • Funding Sources: Acknowledge any funding bodies or organizations that provided financial support for your research. This could include grants, scholarships, or fellowships.
  • Research Participants: If your study involved human participants or subjects, it is important to thank them for their participation and contribution to the research. Ensure that their privacy and confidentiality are maintained by using initials or codes instead of full names.
  • Collaborators and Colleagues: If you worked closely with other researchers or colleagues on the project, acknowledge their contributions and highlight their specific roles or expertise.
  • Technical and Administrative Support: Recognize individuals or institutions that provided technical assistance, equipment, or administrative support during the research process.
  • Family and Friends: It is common to express gratitude to loved ones for their support and understanding throughout the research journey. Although personal acknowledgements should be kept brief, acknowledging their support can be a significant gesture.

Remember to be sincere and genuine in your acknowledgements, recognizing the specific contributions and support each individual or entity provided.

Structure and Formatting of the Acknowledgements

The structure and formatting of acknowledgements in a research paper play a vital role in conveying gratitude in a clear and organized manner. Here are some guidelines to follow when structuring and formatting your acknowledgements:

  • Placement: The acknowledgements section is typically placed towards the end of the paper, after the conclusion but before the references.
  • Title: Use a clear and concise title such as “Acknowledgements” or “Acknowledgments” at the top of the section to indicate its purpose.
  • Formatting: In general, acknowledgements are written in paragraph form. However, if you have a long list of individuals or organizations to acknowledge, you can also use a bullet-point or numbered list.
  • Tone: The tone of acknowledgements should be professional and appreciative. Use a sincere and heartfelt tone to express your gratitude.
  • Length: Acknowledgements should be kept concise and to the point. A few paragraphs or a short list of names and institutions are typically sufficient.
  • Order: It is customary to acknowledge individuals and organizations in order of their significance and contribution to the research. Start with your most important mentors, advisors, or sponsors, and then proceed to acknowledge collaborators, research participants, and others who provided support.
  • Style: Follow the formatting guidelines specified by the journal or academic institution. This may include font type, size, and spacing.

Remember, while acknowledgements provide an opportunity to express gratitude, it is important to maintain professionalism and adhere to the guidelines set by the journal or your academic institution.

Examples of Well-Written Acknowledgements

Example 1: “I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Professor [Name] for their unwavering guidance, invaluable insights, and constant support throughout this research journey. Their expertise and dedication have been instrumental in shaping this study. I would also like to thank my research committee members, [Names], for their thoughtful feedback and constructive criticism. I am grateful to [Funding Body/Institution] for providing financial support that made this research possible. Special thanks to all the participants who generously volunteered their time and contributed to this study. I would also like to acknowledge [Support Staff/Technicians] for their technical assistance. Lastly, I am indebted to my family and friends for their unwavering support, love, and encouragement throughout this endeavor.”

Example 2: “We extend our sincere appreciation to Professor [Name] for their mentorship and guidance, which have been invaluable in the completion of this research. We would like to thank [Funding Body/Institution] for their financial support, without which this study would not have been possible. We are grateful to the participants who willingly shared their experiences and expertise, providing the foundation for our research. Our gratitude also extends to our collaborators and fellow researchers who provided valuable insights and feedback throughout the project. We would like to acknowledge the technical support provided by [Support Staff/Technicians]. Lastly, we express our heartfelt thanks to our families and friends for their unwavering support and understanding.”

Remember, these examples are just a guide. It is important to personalize your acknowledgements based on the individuals and organizations that have contributed to your specific research project.

Tips for Writing Acknowledgements

  • Be specific: Clearly mention the names of individuals, institutions, or organizations that have made significant contributions to your research.
  • Focus on contributions: Acknowledge the specific ways in which each person or entity has contributed to your research, whether it’s through mentorship, funding, technical support, or intellectual guidance.
  • Maintain professionalism: While expressing gratitude, maintain a professional tone and avoid overly personal or informal language.
  • Be concise: Keep your acknowledgements brief and to the point, focusing on the most essential contributors.
  • Follow guidelines: Adhere to any specific formatting guidelines provided by the journal or academic institution.
  • Review and proofread: Ensure that your acknowledgements are free of spelling or grammatical errors by reviewing and proofreading them carefully.
  • Express sincerity: Convey genuine appreciation and gratitude in your acknowledgements to show the true extent of your appreciation.

Remember, acknowledgements are an opportunity to show gratitude to those who have supported your research, so be sure to express your thanks sincerely and respectfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Acknowledgements

  • Excessive length: Avoid making your acknowledgements overly lengthy. Keep them concise and focus only on those who have made substantial contributions to your research.
  • Forgetting important contributors: Take the time to think through all the individuals and organizations that have played a role in your research and ensure that you acknowledge them appropriately. Leaving out key contributors can be unintentionally dismissive.
  • Being vague: Be specific when acknowledging the contributions of individuals or institutions. Avoid using generic statements that don’t adequately highlight the specific ways in which they have supported your research.
  • Inclusion of personal anecdotes: While it’s important to express gratitude, acknowledgements should remain professional. Avoid including personal anecdotes or unrelated stories that distract from the purpose of the section.
  • Neglecting proofreading: Treat acknowledgements with the same level of attention and care as the rest of your research paper. Proofread for spelling and grammatical errors before submitting your final document.
  • Inconsistent formatting: Ensure that your acknowledgements follow the same formatting as the rest of your research paper, adhering to any journal or institution guidelines.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your acknowledgements accurately reflect the contributions of those involved in your research while maintaining a professional and concise tone.

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How to Write the Acknowledgements Section of Your Paper

how to write acknowledgement in research paper

Quick Takeaways:

  • The Acknowledgements section names who helped or supported you, and how, during your research or study
  • Use our checklist as a guide to drafting the Acknowledgements of your dissertation or journal manuscript, and
  • Download our example Acknowledgements and use it as a template

The English language has a rich history of borrowing words from other languages, especially from Latin. Latin abbreviations such as ‘a.m.’, ‘p.m.’ and ‘CV’ have become part of our everyday vocabulary. Such abbreviations are also frequently used in academic writing, from the ‘Ph.D.’ in the affiliation section to the ‘i.e.’, ‘e.g.’, ‘et al.’, and ‘QED’ in the rest of the paper.

This guide explains when and how to correctly use ‘et al.’ in a research paper.

In this guide:

  • 1) Meaning of ‘et al.’
  • a) Table: Correct use of ‘et al.’ by style guide
  • b) Unusual scenarios

A global requirement in scholarly coursework and research is that the intellectual and practical work, as well as the write-up, must be done entirely by the scholar or researcher.

For that reason, sources of any text, ideas, or data that were not your own need to be clearly cited. Any reproduced or adapted material also needs copyright permission. Similarly, if you were allowed to receive specific types of help during your study, you must declare that support in a special section titled ‘Acknowledgements’.

The Acknowledgements section reflects academic honesty and transparency. It shows your professionalism by publicly giving credit to individuals or groups who substantially contributed to your work, whether for free or paid for. It also shows that you know how to be a courteous member of your academic network. After all, you’d expect similar recognition for helping your peers in the future.

You need to declare support in an Acknowledgements section, in both:

  • University degree projects that are submitted as theses or dissertations. In general, ‘thesis’ and ‘dissertation’ are the names of the project write-ups for, respectively, taught degrees and research degrees in the US, but the reverse order in the UK. (From now, just the word ‘dissertation’ will be used.)
  • Research manuscripts that are submitted for publication in peer-reviewed scholarly journals, books, monographs, or chapters.

This guide will provide general advice on how to prepare the Acknowledgements section for dissertations and journal manuscripts. We’ll discuss the two document types according to the following six steps.

A. Writing the Acknowledgements for Your Dissertation or Manuscript

Step 1: List who directly helped you and how Step 2: List who else supported you and how Step 3: Take responsibility for your work Step 4: Consider research and publication ethics Step 5: Check document guidelines Step 6: Edit and proofread Putting it all together: A quick checklist

B. Example Acknowledgements for (1) a dissertation and (2) a journal article  [ Free Download ] 

Quick aside.

The US spelling is ‘Acknowledgments’, whereas the UK spelling is ‘Acknowledgements’. The singular word can be used as the section heading if you’re thanking only one person, group, or institution.

Step 1: List who directly helped you and how

The first step is to transparently and accurately list specific external (non-author) contributions and support necessary to complete your work. Clearly identifying the source of materials or data is particularly important for other researchers wishing to repeat or build on your findings.

Provide full names of the people or institutions that helped you. Omit titles of people, such as Mr or Ms, but you may use Dr or Prof (or Dr. or Prof., depending on whether you’re following US, UK, or other convention in your report). If possible, include the institution of each person and, if required by a journal, also their job title and specialty or department.

Specific support that must normally be acknowledged in both dissertations and manuscripts include:

  • Funding, sponsorship, or fellowship, including the name of the funding agency and award or grant number, and a statement of whether the funder was involved in the study and reporting (some journals require a separate funding section for this declaration)
  • People, institutions, or organisations that gave access to facilities or equipment
  • Study participants (e.g., interviewees, patients, staff of an institution)
  • People who supplied special materials, reagents, or samples
  • Providers of technical assistance or services (name the specific method and extent of help received)
  • Source and permission to use specific datasets, or copyright permission to reproduce or adapt illustrations or other material
  • People who collected data, transcribed or translated interviews, or performed data entry, coding, or statistical analysis
  • People who discussed, critiqued, or advised on an earlier draft
  • People who helped with language (e.g., translation, editing, proofreading) or artwork during report preparation

There are several options for acknowledging support in a formal and polite way in dissertations and manuscripts. A direct way is to start with a relevant verb or noun, such as ‘We thank X [person] for Y [contribution as verb+ing or noun]’, ‘We appreciate the Y [contribution as noun] of X’, ‘Thanks are due/owed to X…’, or, simply, ‘Thanks go to X…’:

We sincerely thank Dr Alan Pan (Department of Surgery, ABC University) for assisting with case selection.

I thank Prof Kate Chang of the University of ABC for permission to use and reproduce the survey instrument.

We appreciate the assistance of the staff of the ABC Division of ABC University, who recruited the volunteers.

Special thanks go to Mari Beer (ABC Editing Company) for useful comments on and for editing an earlier draft of this manuscript.

An indirect, and weaker, way is to use an adjective or a noun conveying thanks, such as ‘We are thankful/grateful to’ or ‘We express/extend our thanks/gratitude/appreciation to’:

I am grateful to the ABC University Core Research Unit for providing DNA sequencing services.

We extend our gratitude to Prof. Mike Jackson (Director, Centre for ABC, University of ABC) for providing the samples used in this study.

An even more indirect, and also ambiguous, way of thanking is to start with a verb of intention, as in ‘I would like to’, ‘I wish to’, and ‘I want to’:

We would like to thank the patients at ABC Medical Centre who participated in this study.

I wish to express my gratitude to Julia Punn for drawing the graph in Figure 2.

Use of the verb ‘acknowledge’ (as in ‘acknowledge X for Y’ or ‘acknowledge Y by/from X’) may imply a sense of obligation or reluctance:

I acknowledge the ABC Department at ABC University for permission to use the data.

We gratefully acknowledge the copyediting performed by Dr Ruth Cone, Associate Professor in English at the University of ABC.

The grammatical subject for thanking in the Acknowledgements can usually be ‘I’ (or ‘We’ for multi-authored journal manuscripts). If the publication style is to avoid personal pronouns, you can use ‘The author/s’ as the subject:

The author is thankful to Louis Grey of ABC Language Services for proofreading the manuscript.

Alternatively, the acknowledged party can be the subject of sentences using either the active or passive voice.

Jeff Smith, Head Librarian at ABC University, deserves special thanks for providing access to the university archives.

The staff at the Institute of ABC are thanked for providing technical advice and facilities throughout the project.

Funding is commonly acknowledged first or last and in a factual, impersonal way in the passive voice:

This study was supported in part by the ABC University Grants Committee (Award No. 123456).

Research funding for this project was provided by the ABC University Grants Committee (Award No. 123456).

Check your institution, publisher, or funder policy for types and extent of support allowed. For example, most universities strictly do not allow writing assistance, but might allow editing and proofreading assistance under certain conditions. Some journals consider that people who wrote drafts qualify as authors.

Step 2: List who else supported you and how

Journal manuscripts and dissertations commonly acknowledge indirect practical assistance and general intellectual support. Dissertations allow a wider range of indirect, non-research acknowledgements written in a more personal style. Examples of indirect support are given below:

  • Academic or project supervision
  • Obtaining research grants
  • Academic discussion or training
  • General administrative, logistic, or practical help
  • Mentorship and inspirational lecturers, tutors, or other people
  • Guidance or support in applying for the studentship
  • General training, discussion, or advice (e.g., from teachers, the research group, support staff, or fellow students)
  • Moral or emotional support from peers, friends, family, or even pets
  • Spiritual or religious support
  • Dedication to a family member, friend, or inspirational person
  • Dedication to a community, study participants, readers, or other group
  • Dedication to a deceased supervisor or close acquaintance such as a family member, friend, or colleague
  • Dedications may go at the start or end of the Acknowledgements but may be limited to a deceased co-author of the manuscript
  • Useful comments, or a specific useful suggestion, from one or more ‘anonymous reviewers/referees’

The typical order for the Acknowledgements is to mention direct then indirect support. Alternatively, the order can reflect decreasing importance of contributions regardless of category.

It’s best to group similar roles together. Introduce a series of acknowledgements in a list, followed by a colon. You may need to use semicolons as ‘super commas’ to clarify each contribution. For example:

This article has benefited from the contributions of the following people: my former primary supervisor, Dr A (ABC University), who obtained project funding and reviewed multiple drafts; Prof B (DEF University), who provided useful discussion on theoretical frameworks; and Dr C (GHI University), who tutored me in advanced research methods.

For dissertations , non-technical acknowledgements often use a semi-formal, expressive style with positive adjectives and adverbs:

Many thanks go to my supervisor, Prof Jane Wong, for advice, encouragement, and support throughout my degree. Without her immensely valuable and motivational feedback at weekly meetings and on multiple drafts, this dissertation would never have been completed.

Last but not least, I am indebted to my family for their unfailing love and unconditional support. Their strong belief in me kept me going through both thick and thin in my studies.

This dissertation is dedicated to my grandparents, Naomi Tanaka and the late Tom Tanaka. They are my constant guiding light.

In journal manuscripts , use a formal style. Don’t thank co-authors, and thank supervisors only if they don’t meet the journal’s authorship criteria. Examples of non-technical acknowledgements:

I am grateful to my supervisor, Prof Gladys Cho, for her encouragement and guidance.

We thank the two anonymous journal reviewers and the handling editor, Dr Andy Harris, for helpful comments on an earlier draft.

This article is dedicated to the memory of Dr Yvonne Koo, the third co-author, who died during the preparation of this manuscript.

To avoid repeating the same thanking phrase, use a variety of phrases, as well as signal words such as ‘In addition,’ ‘Furthermore,’ and ‘also’. You may end with the most meaningful or special contribution following phrases such as ‘In particular, I am most grateful for’, ‘Most importantly, I thank’ ‘I especially thank’, or ‘Finally, special thanks go to’.

Step 3: Take responsibility for your work

A sentence that is often included near the end of the Acknowledgements, particularly in the humanities and social sciences, is about accepting sole responsibility for the work, text, content, interpretations, opinions, or conclusions presented. This sentence commonly comes after thanking people who gave reviewing, editing, or proofreading assistance. It publicly removes blame from non-authors for any potential problems, deficiencies, or mistakes in the work and implies they may not necessarily agree with the content.

The statement also allows the author/s to explicitly claim that the final version is their own work. For example:

All opinions, omissions, and errors remain my own.

The responsibility for the content and any remaining errors remains exclusively with the authors.

In addition, authors may be required (e.g., by their funder) to explicitly say the content is entirely their own. For example:

The views and opinions expressed in this paper are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of their institutions, employers, or funders.

Acknowledgements for dissertations can end, or begin, with a brief statement of the researcher’s personal reflections of their degree course, about how they have become a credible and mature member of the research community. For example:

This degree has taught me both academic and personal lessons, including how to be a responsible, resilient, and professional researcher.

Step 4: Consider research and publication ethics

You may be required to include specific additional statements in the Acknowledgements that are related to research and reporting ethics. Such declarations may be required in separate itemised sections of a manuscript or dissertation, but if there are no specific instructions, they can go in the Acknowledgments. The following are some examples:

  • Ethics approval for conducting human or animal studies, and details of how human participants gave their informed consent
  • Prior journal or online publication of the work or presentation at conferences; also for journal manuscripts: prior presentation in a dissertation/thesis
  • Authors’ financial or non-financial conflicts of interest, also called competing interests (identify specific authors by initials); or say ‘All authors declare they have no competing interests’
  • Conflicts of interest or sources of funding for anyone else who helped in the research or reporting (e.g., copyeditors paid for by industry sponsors)
  • Authors’ specific contributions to the research and publication. The contributions may be organised by author (using initials) or by contribution, for example, according to categories in the Contributor Roles Taxonomy ( CRediT ) or authorship criteria of the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors ( ICMJE ):

[By author] Author contributions. A.B.C.: study conception and design, data collection, analysis and interpretation of results, drafting. D.E.F: data collection, analysis and interpretation of results, drafting. G.H.I: analysis and interpretation of results, drafting. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.

[By contribution] Author contributions. Conceptualisation: A.B.C.; Methodology: A.B.C.; Investigation: A.B.C., D.E.F.; Formal analysis: A.B.C., D.E.F., G.H.I.; Writing – original draft: A.B.C.; Writing – review & editing: D.E.F., G.H.I. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.

Thank only people who genuinely helped you complete your work. Don’t use the Acknowledgements to ‘name drop’ or thank famous people who didn’t help. Journals usually require that all people who are named in the Acknowledgements have given their written permission to be thanked.

Step 5: Check document guidelines

Acknowledgments normally go at the front of a dissertation but the end of a manuscript; however, check relevant guidelines of your institution or journal for the exact placement. Also check guidelines for other content and formatting requirements, such as:

  • If the Acknowledgements go on a new page, in a separate section, or in a footnote or endnote
  • Types of activity to be acknowledged, or not
  • Length of the Acknowledgements
  • If only one paragraph is expected, or multiple paragraphs
  • If subsections with headings are allowed
  • Format of names, titles, institutions
  • Whether or not reviewers can be thanked
  • Order of support to be thanked (e.g., people before funding sources)
  • Whether dedications are allowed

Academic books and monographs may have overall Acknowledgements at the beginning or end of the book, and specific Acknowledgements at the end of each chapter. The content can cover categories of acknowledgements found in both manuscript and dissertations but can be much longer and written in a more personal and expressive style.

Step 6: Edit and proofread

Your Acknowledgements are your opportunity to thank non-authors who helped you in your scholarly work. Acknowledgements follow certain conventions and patterns, and have academic, ethical, and social roles that contribute to the credibility of your work and to your identity as a competent researcher.

So, remember to carefully edit and proofread your Acknowledgements, ensuring the following:

  • Keep the tone modest, sincere, and professional
  • Fact-check names, titles, and current institutions of people you mention
  • Remove any exaggerations or potentially offensive language
  • Clarify any possibly ambiguous, misleading, or confusing phrases
  • Check spelling, grammar, and punctuation

Putting it all together: A quick checklist

If you’ve followed our guidelines above, you should have an effective Acknowledgements section. Good luck with drafting your dissertation or manuscript! Reach out to [email protected] should you require any editorial assistance.

Example Acknowledgements [Free Download]

This downloadable Acknowledgements, in UK style, is customisable for dissertations and journal manuscripts and is annotated with helpful Comments. Please edit or replace text as needed and delete all Comments when finalising your text. Remember to use non-technical, jargon-free but formal language, and avoid abbreviations, or spell them out at first mention.

Our long-term partner, to deliver an online workshop for their professors and researchers. The workshop, held on 19 August 2021, was aimed at writing successful General Research Fund (GRF) and Early Career Scheme (ECS) applications.

When and how to use ‘et al’.

Our latest online workshop built on the success of face-to-face workshops we developed specifically for local universities. Over 30 faculty members joined the session, presented by our Chief Operating Officer, Mr Nick Case, to learn from our case studies on editing research proposals.

The response to our workshop, which included a constructive and insightful Q&A session, was very positive.Drawing on our extensive experience working with hundreds of Hong Kong researchers targeting the GRF and ECS every year, we used examples of poor and subsequently improved proposals to show the attendees how they can make their applications stand out.

Nick also focused on the “Pathways to Impact” section, a relatively new section that is often the most problematic area for applicants.

how to write acknowledgement in research paper

Wondering why some abbreviations such as ‘et al.’ and ‘e.g.’ use periods, whereas others such as CV and AD don’t? Periods are typically used if the abbreviations include lowercase or mixed-case letters. They’re usually not used with abbreviations containing only uppercase letters.

Unusual Scenarios

The response to our workshop, which included a constructive and insightful Q&A session, was very positive.Drawing on our extensive experience working with hundreds of Hong Kong researchers targeting the GRF and ECS every year, we used examples of poor and subsequently improved proposals to show the attendees how they can make their applications stand out. The response to our workshop, which included a constructive and insightful Q&A session, was very positive.Drawing on our extensive experience working with hundreds of Hong Kong researchers targeting the GRF and ECS every year, we used examples of poor and subsequently improved proposals to show the attendees how they can make their applications stand out. The response to our workshop, which included a constructive and insightful Q&A session, was very positive.Drawing on our extensive experience working with hundreds of Hong Kong researchers targeting the GRF and ECS every year, we used examples of poor and subsequently improved proposals to show the attendees how they can make their applications stand out.

Author Resources

Check out AsiaEdit’s professional research grant proposal editing service. Read more about our training services covering all aspects of academic writing tailored for local institutions.

More resources on research grant proposal writing: On-demand Webinars Preparing an effective research proposal – Your guide to successful funding application Preparing an effective research proposal – Your guide to successful funding application (Part 2)

how to write acknowledgement in research paper

Dr Trevor Lane  is a publishing and education consultant and an elected Council Member of the Committee on Publication Ethics. He has 25 years of experience helping authors publish their research in peer-reviewed academic journals.

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Enago Academy

How to Draft the Acknowledgment Section of a Manuscript

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What is the Purpose of the Acknowledgements Section in a Research Paper?

The acknowledgment section is an integral part of all academic research papers. It provides appropriate recognition to all contributors for their hard work. We discuss here,  the relevant guidelines for acknowledging contributors.

Defining Who Is Acknowledged

The acknowledgment section helps identify the contributors responsible for specific parts of the project. It can include:

  • Non-authors (colleagues, friends, supervisor, etc.)
  • Funding sources
  • Editing services ,
  • Administrative staff

In academic writing, the information presented in the acknowledgment section should be kept brief. It should only mention people directly involved with the project. In other words, one should not consider thanking ones’ parents for moral and financial support.

Acknowledging contributors is necessary. However, you must know the difference between an author and a contributor . The International Committee of Medical Journal Editors ( ICMJE ) defines four criteria to assign authorship.

He or she has to have

  • Made substantial conceptual or design contributions or gathered and analyzed important data, and
  • Either helped draft or critically revise the paper in keeping with important intellectual content, and
  • Provided final approval before publishing, and
  • Agreed to be accountable for the accuracy of the work

These authors and their affiliations will be listed at the beginning of the paper. The “corresponding author” will also be listed a second time and will directly correspond with the journal to ensure documentation requirements are met.

Many journals now ask that you provide the role of each author in your acknowledgment section. For example, a typical statement of authors’ contributions might be as follows (note that only last names are used unless ambiguous):

Smith conducted the data analysis and created the tables and figures. Jones provided his technological expertise for GIS tracking. Johnson provided a factual review and helped edit the manuscript.

This type of acknowledgment provides your reader with a good sense of who was responsible for each part of your research and manuscript.

Acknowledgment Section

Non-Author Contributors

There are many people involved in a research project who are not authors but have provided valuable contributions. For example, one person’s responsibility might be to seek project funding; another’s might be to supervise laboratory staff. A few others might have provided valuable services such as technical editing and writing or offering help in reviewing and revising the manuscript for grammar and syntax. These people should also be mentioned in the acknowledgment section of your manuscript.

Acknowledgment should also be provided  for  writing assistance, technical editing, language editing, and proofreading . Therefore, editing companies need to be duly acknowledged in professionally edited manuscripts as per the  ICMJE guidelines.

It is necessary to acknowledge editing companies in professionally edited manuscripts, even though these companies are paid for their work.

Acknowledgment Format

Unlike the main body of your paper, the format for your acknowledgment section can be more personal. It is permissible to use personal pronouns in this section. For example,

I thank the following individuals for their expertise and assistance throughout all aspects of our study and for their help in writing the manuscript.

Keep in mind that many guidelines indicate that funding sources be listed separately from the acknowledgment section. In addition, the sources (funding agencies) might have specific guidelines that you must follow. Please be sure to comply with these sources and your author guidelines.

For more information on authors and contributors , read articles on the Enago Academy website.

What types and formats of acknowledgments have you incorporated into your manuscripts? Please share your thoughts in the comments section below. Do you need help with manuscript editing ? Make sure you visit enago.com today!

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This information was very useful for preparing this paper.

We would like to thank Enago (www.enago.com) for the English language review.”

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Acknowledgement World

How to Write Acknowledgement: The 3-Minute Guide for Students

Writing acknowledgements is an important part of completing any academic project, from a dissertation to a school project. It is an opportunity to thank those who have helped you on the journey to completing your work.

In this guide, we will give you just enough information you will need to complete your acknowledgement section for your writing. Nothing more and nothing less. Let’s dive right in!

What is acknowledgement in academic writing?

An acknowledgement is a page is where you show appreciation to people who helped or supported you intellectually, mentally, or financially in your academic writing.

It should be no longer than one page.

how to write acknowledgement in research paper

The acknowledgement section is where you show appreciation to people who helped or supported you intellectually, mentally, or financially in your academic writing. It should be no longer than one page.

Acknowledgement are commonly found in academic writings such as:

  • School/college projects
  • Research papers
  • Dissertations

More Definitions on Acknowledgement

  • Acknowledgement vs Empathy What is the Difference Between Acknowledgement and Empathy?
  • Acknowledgement vs Acceptance Does Acknowledgement Mean Acceptance? Lessons From History and the Bible
  • Acknowledgement vs Agreement Is Acknowledgement the Same as Agreement?
  • Acknowledgement Receipts vs Official Receipts What’s the Difference Between Acknowledgement Receipts and Official Receipts?

“Acknowledgement” vs “Acknowledgment”… …what the hack?

how to write acknowledgement in research paper

Both “acknowledgement” and “acknowledgment” are used in the English-speaking world. However, acknowledgement with the “e” in the middle is more commonly used. It is up to 24.5 times more popular in the top 5 English-speaking countries in the world.

Why should I include an acknowledgement section in my writing?

Acknowledging assistance and contributions from others can establish your integrity as a researcher. This will eventually make your work more credible.

Where to put the acknoweldgement section?

Generally, the acknowledgements should be put right after the title page and before the table of contents.

For term papers, you can also write your acknowledgement at the end, after the conclusion, and before the reference section.  

How long should an acknowledgement be?

The length of an acknowledgement should not be more than one page if you are writing for your thesis or dissertation. You should keep your acknowledgement as short as possible thanking all the individuals helping your throughout the project.

For a simple college or school project, you should write at least a paragraph or two thanking at least your college/school and teachers/instructors. A s hort 1-2 paragraph or 100-150 words for your acknowledgement section is fine.

What should be acknowledged about?

In your acknowledgement section, you can show gratitude for those who provide you with resources in the following area;

  • Technical help may include people who helped you by providing materials and supplies.
  • Intellectual help includes academic advice and assistance.
  • Mental help can be any kind of verbal support and encouragement.
  • Financial help is obviously related to monetary support

Who should I include in the acknowledgement?

In general, there are two main categories of acknowledgements:  professional  and  personal . And sometimes people would include a spiritual acknowledgement to the higher power.

It’s a common practice to put professional acknowledgements first, followed by any personal ones. And in the case of spiritual acknowledgement, it will be out up front regardless.

  • Your Supervisor/ Teacher
  • Lab assistants
  • Academic staff of your school/college
  • Your college/school
  • Your faculty/department
  • Friends/Your colleagues
  • Family members

Start by listing all the people whom you wish to thank for helping or collaborating with your project. It could be your teacher, your friends, your families, and others. List everyone whom you think has helped you achieve your project goals. 

Then you would have to organize them, starting with those people who helped you the most with the project. After that, you can thank your college or university as well.

When thanking professionals, always write out their  full names  and provide their titles. For example, “I would like to thank Dr. Steve Kerr, Professor Matt Simms for their support in this project.” 

If you intend to include a list of people from one institution or organization, it is best to list their names in  alphabetical order . 

What is the tone and format of the acknowledgement section?

You should write your acknowledgement in formal language with complete sentences. Although the  first person  is not used in academic research projects, you can use it in the acknowledgement for the thesis section. In other words, p ersonal pronouns  such as “I, my, me …”are nearly always used in the acknowledgements.

The information supplied in the acknowledgement section of academic writing should be kept concise. It should only include persons who are directly involved with the project.

Phrases to use while writing an acknowledgement

Strong ‘Thank You’

(You will use these lines for those who have helped you the most.)

  • I’m extremely grateful to …
  • I’d like to express my deepest thanks to…
  • This project would not have been possible without…
  • I cannot begin to express my thanks to……, who…
  • I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to…
  • I would like to pay my special regards to …
  • I would like to recognize the invaluable assistance of…..

Medium ‘Thank You’

  • I would also like to thank…
  • I must also thank…
  • I’d also like to express my gratitude to…
  • Especially, I would like to thank…
  • I am very grateful to…
  • I should also appreciate…

Weaker ‘Thank You’

  • I’d also like to acknowledge the help of…
  • I’d also like to thank…
  • Finally, I would like to thank…

After thanking everyone, you should also mention why you are thanking them. You can thank those people for their advice, suggestions, sharing their experience, guidance, support, etc., and appreciate their support and help for your project.

Here’s an example of an acknowledgement for a research paper:

Acknowledgments

First of all, I would like to thank my Almighty God for giving us the determination to complete this research paper.

I would like to thank also Prof. [name of professor] my thesis adviser, for his continuous support, patience, and motivation, and for unselfishly sharing his expertise from the initial to the final stage of this academic endeavor. I am also thankful to the panelists for their encouragement, insightful comments, and intellectual guidance.

I am also grateful to my classmates and cohort members, especially my office mates, for their editing help, honest feedback, and encouragement. Thanks should also go to the research assistants, and librarians from the university, who have been keeping me resourceful.

Last but not least, I want to thank my family for all their love and patience in making this journey meaningful.

Acknowledgement Examples for School/College Projects

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

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How to Write Acknowledgements

Last Updated: September 12, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Christopher Taylor, PhD . Christopher Taylor is an Adjunct Assistant Professor of English at Austin Community College in Texas. He received his PhD in English Literature and Medieval Studies from the University of Texas at Austin in 2014. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 749,099 times.

Any time you publish work or are recognized publicly, it's good form to thank the people who've helped you along the way with an acknowledgment. It can be a tricky piece of writing, though. What tone to use? How formal should your thanks be? Who should you thank? Whether it be academic acknowledgments, public thanks, or other reasons for thanking people, wikiHow can help you offer your gratitude in style. See Step 1 for more information.

Academic Acknowledgment and Thank You Speech Templates

how to write acknowledgement in research paper

Writing Academic Acknowledgements

Step 1 Use the appropriate tone and form.

  • The acknowledgment page can either be a list or a more fluid paragraph. It would be fine to write, "I would like to thank Professor Henderson, Dr. Matthews, etc." until you've worked your way through the list.
  • It would also be perfectly acceptable to address each person individually and more personally: "I would like to thank Professor Henderson for her expert advice and encouragement throughout this difficult project, as well as Dr. Matthews for his brilliance in the lab." [2] X Research source
  • Some people feel uncomfortable emphasizing certain people's help over other people's help, in which case the list form in alphabetical order is a perfectly acceptable method of writing an Acknowledgment.

Step 2 Start with the most important teachers.

  • In general, it's helpful to think in groups, even going to far as to format all the thank-yous of a particular group in a single sentence: "I would like to thank Dr. Stevens, Dr. Smith, and Professors Clemons for their extraordinary support in this thesis process."
  • If you worked with a small committee, it's customary and thoughtful to thank each person for the specific things they contributed to your work.

Step 3 List other helpers.

  • If your scholarship at the University was supported by any fellowships or scholarships, it would also be appropriate to name them in this section: "This project would have been impossible without the support of the Katherine G. Katherine Foundation, the Reese's Peanut Butter scholarship, and the Guggenheim Group."

Step 5 Put more personal thank-yous and emotional supporters last.

  • Remember that your friendships and romances may change over the years, so it might be best to keep particularly mushy romances and declarations of love out of your acknowledgment page, so you won't have to see it later if it doesn't work out.
  • It's generally best to avoid overtly personal anecdotes and inside jokes in an academic acknowledgements page. If you want to reference other students' constant joking around in the lab, say, it would be better to say, "Thanks to Joe and Katherine for their friendship in the lab" than "Thanks to Joe and Katherine for dunking my slides in Jell-O when I was hungover." [6] X Research source

Writing a Thank-You Speech

Step 1 Keep it to no more than a minute or two at most.

  • Michael Jordan's Hall of Fame induction speech was widely criticized for being tone deaf and spiteful, talking down to many former opponents and somewhat tarnishing his great legacy. Don't fall in the same trap.

Writing Other Acknowledgements

Step 1 Get creative with a literary acknowledgment page.

  • Like an academic publication, it's also important to remember to address any financial support you received during the publication of your book. If you received any artist residencies, grants, or fellowships while working on your book, you need to list them in the acknowledgments.
  • Use your writing skills to approach the acknowledgment creatively. Authors like Lemony Snicket, Neil Gaiman, J.D. Salinger, and others have used the form for witty and usually-self deprecating anecdotes about the friends and cohorts they choose to thank.

Step 2 Shout-out your friends when your album drops.

  • Friends and family
  • Other bands who helped you along the way, lending gear or instruments
  • Recording engineers and label folk
  • Musical inspirations

Step 3 Write personal notes to ask for permission about public acknowledgment.

  • In the letter, explain your desire to thank them and explain the publication or event at which you'd like to thank them. Express your gratitude for their assistance and encourage them to get in touch to approve your acknowledgment. More often than not, they'll be flattered.

Step 4 Always double-check your list, proofread, and check your spelling and pronunciation.

Expert Q&A

Christopher Taylor, PhD

Video . By using this service, some information may be shared with YouTube.

  • Look at samples. Evaluating someone else's existing acknowledgements can help, especially if you are writing a specific kind of acknowledgement such as a thesis acknowledgement or other academic item. Thanks Helpful 46 Not Helpful 8

how to write acknowledgement in research paper

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Write in Third Person

  • ↑ https://esl.gatech.edu/sites/default/files/LI/li-how_to_write_acknowledgements_in_a_dissertation.pdf
  • ↑ https://www.awelu.lu.se/referencing/writing-acknowledgements/
  • ↑ https://us.sagepub.com/en-us/nam/funding-acknowledgements
  • ↑ https://www.ref-n-write.com/blog/research-paper-example-writing-acknowledgements-appendix-sections-academic-phrasebank-vocabulary/
  • ↑ https://gradschool.unc.edu/academics/thesis-diss/guide/ordercomponents.html#dedication
  • ↑ http://www.katemessner.com/think-before-you-thank-writers-acknowledgments/
  • ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/the_writing_process/proofreading/index.html

About This Article

Christopher Taylor, PhD

If you’ve published an academic work and you want to write acknowledgments, dedicate one page at the end of the document to thanking your supporters. You can write out your acknowledgments as a heartfelt paragraph thanking each person individually, or you can write a list in order of those who helped you the most, or even an alphabetical list if you’re uncomfortable emphasizing certain people over others. Include teachers, anyone who contributed to the project, personal supporters, and organizations or foundations which provided you with financial aid. For tips on writing acknowledgments for a literary work, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Acknowledgement.in

Acknowledgement in Research Paper | How to Write | Perfect Example

What is acknowledgement in research paper.

Acknowledgement in a research paper is the section where the author expresses gratitude to individuals and organizations who have contributed to the completion of the study. This section is usually placed at the beginning or end of the paper and is an important part of the research process. It allows the author to recognize the support, assistance, and guidance they have received from others in the course of their research.

What is the purpose of acknowledgement in research paper?

The acknowledgement section is an opportunity for the author to show appreciation for anyone who has helped them in the research process, including mentors, advisors, colleagues, and funding agencies. It is also a way to acknowledge the contributions of participants, interviewees, or anyone else who has played a role in the study.

Acknowledgements can also include thanks to individuals who have provided critical feedback, technical assistance, or resources that have been essential to the research project. Overall, this section is a way for the author to show their appreciation for the collaborative and supportive nature of the research community.

How to write acknowledgement in research paper?

  • Identify Key Contributors : Make a list of individuals and organizations that have contributed significantly to your research. This includes advisors, mentors, collaborators, funders, participants, and institutions.
  • Understand the Purpose : Acknowledgments are meant to recognize and thank those who have supported or contributed to your research in various ways. Understand the purpose of this section is to express gratitude and recognize their contributions.
  • Be Genuine and Specific : Your acknowledgments should be sincere and specific. Avoid generic expressions of thanks and instead, mention the specific contributions each person or organization made to your research.
  • Start with Formality : Begin your acknowledgment section with a formal tone and expression of gratitude. Address individuals with their appropriate titles, such as Dr., Prof., Mr., or Ms., and mention any institutional affiliations if relevant.
  • Personalize Your Thanks : Tailor your acknowledgments to acknowledge each individual’s specific contributions. Mention how their support, guidance, or expertise influenced your research or contributed to its success.
  • Maintain Professionalism : While acknowledgments can be personal, maintain a professional tone and avoid overly informal language or colloquialisms. Remember that this section is part of your scholarly work.
  • Consider Cultural Sensitivities : Be mindful of cultural norms and sensitivities when expressing gratitude, especially if your research involves international collaborations. Tailor your acknowledgments to reflect cultural expectations or customs, as appropriate.
  • Proofread Carefully : Ensure your acknowledgments are free of grammatical errors and typos. Take the time to review and edit this section to ensure clarity and coherence.
  • Respect Space Limitations : While it’s important to acknowledge all key contributors, be mindful of space limitations in your research paper. Prioritize mentioning those who made significant contributions while being respectful of length constraints.
  • End on a Positive Note : Conclude your acknowledgment section with a positive and appreciative tone. Express your gratitude to everyone who supported your research journey, including family, friends, colleagues, and institutions.

Example of Acknowledgement in Research

I am immensely grateful to the individuals and organizations whose support and guidance have been instrumental in the completion of this research paper. Their assistance and expertise have significantly contributed to the development and refinement of my study.

Firstly, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Aurora Rivera, my mentor and advisor throughout this research journey. Her insightful feedback, encouragement, and scholarly guidance have been invaluable in shaping the direction and methodology of my study.

I am also deeply thankful to Mr. Santiago Cruz, Director of Research at the Philippine Social Sciences Institute, for his generous support and assistance in accessing research resources. His expertise and encouragement have greatly facilitated the progress of my research.

Special gratitude is extended to my research collaborators, including Dr. Sofia Ramirez and Mr. Miguel Hernandez, for their collaborative efforts and insightful perspectives that have enriched the depth and analysis of my research findings.

I would like to acknowledge the valuable contributions of the staff and researchers at the Philippine Research Center for Social Sciences, whose support and expertise have been indispensable in navigating complex research methodologies and data analysis.

Furthermore, I extend my sincere appreciation to the participants of my study for their cooperation and willingness to share their experiences, which have provided essential insights and perspectives.

I wish to express my profound gratitude to my family and friends for their unwavering support, encouragement, and understanding throughout this research endeavor. Their belief in my abilities has been a constant source of motivation and inspiration.

Acknowledgement in Research

Acknowledgement in Research Paper Example

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the individuals and institutions whose unwavering support has been indispensable in the completion of this research paper. Their guidance, encouragement, and expertise have greatly contributed to the success of our study.

Firstly, we express our sincere appreciation to Dr. Juanita Cruz, Professor of Economics at the University of the Philippines, for her invaluable mentorship and insightful feedback throughout the research process. Her expertise in the field has been instrumental in shaping the direction of our study.

We are also indebted to Dr. Manuel Reyes, Director of the Philippine Economic Development Institute, for his generous assistance and provision of research resources. His support has been pivotal in enhancing the quality and depth of our analysis.

Special thanks are extended to our research collaborators, including Dr. Sofia Garcia from the Department of Political Science at Ateneo de Manila University, and Dr. Miguel Hernandez from the Department of Sociology at Mapua University. Their collaboration and expertise have enriched our research with diverse perspectives and profound insights.

We would like to acknowledge the invaluable assistance provided by the staff and researchers at the Philippine Institute for Development Studies, who generously shared their knowledge and resources throughout the duration of our study.

Furthermore, we extend our gratitude to the participants of our study, whose cooperation and willingness to share their experiences have been instrumental in shaping our findings.

  • Acknowledgement for Thesis
  • Acknowledgement for Dissertation

 How to Write an Acknowledgement for a Research Paper | EssayService blog

How to Write an Acknowledgement for a Research Paper

how to write acknowledgement in research paper

Hey guys, Phill Collins here! Today, I will teach you how to write an acknowledgment section in a research paper. Let’s do this!

Acknowledging contributions is a crucial aspect of creating a thorough research paper. It provides an opportunity to convey appreciation and acknowledge the support from individuals and institutions throughout your work. This piece will explore the intricacies of crafting acknowledgments for papers, offering valuable insights, practical advice, and sample acknowledgments. It aims to assist you in expressing gratitude to those who have played a substantial role in your research journey. As usual, I recommend those of you who struggle with your writings to pay for a research paper to save time and have a stress-free evening.

What Is Acknowledgement in a Research Paper

Acknowledgment in a research paper is a section dedicated to expressing gratitude and recognizing the individuals, institutions, or resources that have contributed to the completion of the research. This section is an opportunity for the author to appreciate the support, guidance, or assistance received during the research process. Acknowledgments go beyond the academic content of the paper and serve as a personal and professional gesture of recognition for those who played a significant role in the research endeavor.

In this section, researchers typically acknowledge the contributions of mentors, advisors, colleagues, or peers who provided valuable insights, feedback, or assistance in shaping the research project. Additionally, institutions, funding agencies, or organizations that supported the research financially or through resources may be acknowledged. The acknowledgment section reflects the collaborative and communal nature of academic work, highlighting the interconnected web of individuals and entities that contribute to the scholarly pursuit.

While there is no strict format for writing acknowledgments, it is important to balance professionalism and sincerity. Authors can use this space to express genuine gratitude, share personal reflections on the collaborative process, and convey the impact of the support received. The acknowledgment section adds a human touch to the paper, recognizing the collective effort that goes into the creation of academic knowledge.

how to write acknowledgement in research paper

The Role of an Acknowledgment in a Research Papers

The acknowledgment section in a paper plays a vital role in recognizing and appreciating the various contributors and influences that have shaped the research journey. Beyond the academic rigor captured in the main body of the paper, acknowledgments offer a space to express gratitude for the support and guidance received during the research process. This section often serves as a heartfelt acknowledgment of the collaborative effort to bring a research project to fruition.

Essentials of an Acknowledgement in Research Paper

An essential component of a complex paper, the acknowledgment section serves as a heartfelt expression of gratitude towards individuals and entities who have contributed significantly to the research process. In this section, authors typically recognize mentors, advisors, colleagues, and peers who provided valuable insights, guidance, or support. Additionally, institutions, funding sources, or organizations that played a role in the research project are acknowledged. The acknowledgment is a personal touch within the scholarly document, acknowledging the collaborative nature of academic work and underscoring the importance of communal support in the research journey. It adds a human element to the paper, recognizing the interconnected network of individuals and resources that contribute to the scholarly endeavor.

How to Write an Acknowledgement for Research Paper Using 8 Simple Tips

Keep in mind that acknowledgments offer a chance to express gratitude and acknowledge the valuable contributions of those who assisted you. Dedicate time to creating a genuine and thoughtful acknowledgment section that mirrors the collaborative and supportive nature of your research endeavor.

Sincerity and Authenticity

Write your acknowledgments with heartfelt gratitude, conveying genuine appreciation for the support and contributions you received throughout your research journey.

Specific Individuals and Institutions

Identify key figures and entities that played a substantial role in your research, including mentors, advisors, collaborators, and funding agencies. Acknowledge institutions that provided resources or facilities.

Conciseness and Focus

Keep your acknowledgments brief and to the point. Concentrate on highlighting the pivotal individuals and organizations that significantly influenced your research.

Formal Tone

Maintain a professional and formal tone throughout your acknowledgments. Remember that this section serves as a formal recognition of support, not a casual conversation.

Ethical Considerations

Adhere to ethical guidelines and norms when acknowledging individuals and organizations. Respect the privacy and confidentiality of those who may prefer not to be mentioned.

Personal Touches

If appropriate, include personal anecdotes or specific instances where individuals or organizations made a noteworthy impact on your research.

Tailor to Research Context

Consider the nature of your research and customize your acknowledgments accordingly. For instance, if your research is interdisciplinary, recognize experts from various fields who provide valuable insights.

Appreciation Beyond Formal Requirements

While an acknowledgement in research paper has to list individuals and institutions, extend your appreciation to others who indirectly supported you. This may include family, friends, or colleagues who provided emotional support during your research journey.

Example of Acknowledgement in Research Paper

research example

An Additional Example of Acknowledgement in Research Paper

An Additional Example of Acknowledgement in Research Paper

Final Words

In my opinion, acknowledgements in a research paper provide an avenue to convey appreciation and recognize the indispensable contributions of individuals and institutions that have bolstered your work. In this article, I did my best to offer tips and a sample acknowledgment to assist you in authentically expressing your gratitude. Keep in mind that acknowledgments are a chance to genuinely convey appreciation and attribute credit where it is rightfully due.

How to write acknowledgement in research paper?

Begin your acknowledgment section with a formal salutation, expressing gratitude to those who contributed to your research. Use a sincere and appreciative tone, mentioning specific individuals and institutions, and keep it concise.

What is the purpose of the acknowledgement section in a research paper?

The acknowledgment section serves to express gratitude and recognize the contributions of individuals and institutions who supported the research. It reflects the researcher's appreciation for guidance, resources, and collaboration during the project.

What should the acknowledgement section of a research paper include?

An acknowledgement for research paper includes thanks to advisors, committee members, funding agencies, collaborators, institutions providing resources, and anyone who significantly contributed. Maintain a formal tone, adhere to ethical considerations, and, if appropriate, add a personal touch or anecdotes.

How to acknowledge someone in a research paper?

Acknowledge individuals by mentioning their names, roles, and specific contributions. Follow a formal and respectful tone, adhering to ethical guidelines. If applicable, express personal appreciation and consider tailoring acknowledgments to the nature of the research and relationships involved.

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  • Thesis & Dissertation Acknowledgements | Tips & Examples

Thesis & Dissertation Acknowledgements | Tips & Examples

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

Acknowledgements-section

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

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

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

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

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Table of contents

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

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

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

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

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

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

Professional acknowledgements

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

A few things to keep in mind include:

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

Personal acknowledgements

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

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

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

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

How to phrase your acknowledgements

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

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

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

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

Acknowledgements

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

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

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

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

Don’t:

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

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.

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How To Write Acknowledgement For Research Paper

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If you are thinking about How To Write Acknowledgment For Research Paper then you have come to the right place.

An acknowledgement section in a research paper is a place where you can express your gratitude to the people who have helped you with your research. This could include anyone who has provided support , guidance , or assistance during the research process.

For example, you might thank your advisors or professors for their guidance, your colleagues for their collaboration, librarians, lab assistants or a funding agency for their financial support and anyone else who has contributed to your research.

It is common to include an acknowledgement section in the beginning of a research paper, usually after the abstract and before the main body of the paper. The acknowledgement should be brief and to the point, and it is generally written in a formal, professional tone. You should avoid using casual language or personal anecdotes in this section.

How To Write Acknowledgement For Research Paper

The purpose of an acknowledgement is to express your gratitude to the people who have helped you with your research. It is a way to show that you appreciate the support and contributions of others, and it is an opportunity to thank them for their assistance. By including an acknowledgement in your research paper, you demonstrate that you are grateful for the help and support you have received, and you recognize the role that others have played in your research.

Here are some tips for writing an acknowledgement for a research paper:

  • Start by thanking the people who have directly supported your research, such as your advisors and colleagues.
  • Mention any funding agencies or organizations that provided financial support for your research.
  • If you received assistance from librarians or other research staff, be sure to thank them as well.
  • If you received help from any other individuals, such as lab assistants or research participants, be sure to include them in your acknowledgement.
  • Keep your acknowledgement brief and to the point. You don’t need to go into great detail about the contributions of each person you are thanking.
  • Use a formal, professional tone in your acknowledgement. This is not the place for casual language or personal anecdotes.

Here are a few acknowledgement samples for your research paper –

Table of Contents

Acknowledgement For Research Paper Sample

We are deeply grateful to all those who contributed to the success of this research project.

First and foremost, we would like to thank our primary supervisor, [Name], for their guidance, support, and encouragement throughout the entire process. Their mentorship and expertise were invaluable in helping us to shape the direction of our research and to bring our ideas to fruition.

We would also like to express our gratitude to the members of our research team, [Names], who provided valuable input, insights, and assistance at every stage of the project. Their contributions were critical to the success of this research, and we are deeply grateful for their hard work and dedication.

We would also like to thank the organizations and individuals who provided financial support for this research, including [Name] and [Name]. Without their generous contributions, this project would not have been possible.

Finally, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all of the participants in our study, who generously shared their time, experiences, and insights with us. Their willingness to engage with our research was essential to the success of this project, and we are deeply grateful for their participation.

Overall, this research project would not have been possible without the support and contributions of so many people. We are deeply grateful to all of those who helped to make this project a reality, and we hope that our findings will make a meaningful contribution to the field.

Read Also: Get 15+ Acknowledgement Samples

Sample Acknowledgement For Research Paper

The completion of this research project would not have been possible without the contributions and support of many individuals and organizations. We are deeply grateful to all those who played a role in the success of this project.

We would like to thank [Name] for their invaluable input and support throughout the research process. Their insights and expertise were instrumental in shaping the direction of this project.

In addition, we would like to extend our sincere thanks to all of the participants in our study, who generously shared their time, experiences, and insights with us. Their willingness to engage with our research was essential to the success of this project, and we are deeply grateful for their participation.

Small Acknowledgement Sample For Research Paper

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to our advisors, Dr. Spirt Kular and Dr. Sonney Deom, for their invaluable guidance and support throughout the research process. We also wish to thank the XYZ Foundation for their financial support, as well as the librarians at the ABC Library for their assistance in finding the necessary research materials. Finally, we are grateful to all of the research participants who generously gave their time and effort to this project.

You can take the help online paraphrasing tool when crafting an acknowledgment for a research paper. They help you manipulate the formal tone of your text according to your needs and make sure your text stays sincere and relevant.

Using the paraphrase tool , you can express specific appreciation for individual contributions that fit the unique context of the paper. Ultimately, you write an acknowledgment that is as personalized and meaningful as possible.

Note: It’s important to note that the specific language and tone of your acknowledgement will depend on the context and the nature of the contributions made by the individuals or organizations you are thanking. It’s a good idea to be specific and sincere in your appreciation, and to tailor your acknowledgement to the specific contributions that were made.

Conclusion On How To Write Acknowledgement For Research Paper

In conclusion, writing an acknowledgement for a research paper is a crucial step in recognizing the contributions of others to your work. It is a way to show gratitude to those who have provided assistance, support, and guidance throughout the research process. When writing an acknowledgement, it is important to be sincere and specific in thanking those who have helped you. Be sure to mention individuals by name, and specify their roles and contributions.

Additionally, make sure to follow any specific guidelines or requirements for formatting and presenting the acknowledgement in your research paper. By following these tips, you can effectively convey your appreciation and recognition of the help you received while completing your research.

Read Also: Master Thesis Acknowledgement Sample

FAQs On How To Write Acknowledgement For Research Paper

1) What is a good sentence for acknowledgement? Ans: “I appreciate your efforts in completing this project on time.” “I want to acknowledge the hard work and dedication you have shown during this challenging year.” “I am grateful for your support and understanding during this difficult time.” It’s important to note that the specific wording and tone of an acknowledgement will depend on the context and the relationship between the speaker and the person being acknowledged.

2) Is conclusion and acknowledgement same? Ans: The conclusion is the final part of a written work that summarizes the main points and arguments. Acknowledgement is the act of recognizing or thanking someone or something for their contribution. These two things are often used in different contexts and for different purposes.

3) Who should I include in my acknowledgement for a research paper? Ans: It is appropriate to include anyone who has contributed significantly to your research, such as a supervisor, mentor, or colleague. You may also want to thank any individuals or organizations that provided financial or logistical support.

4) How should I structure my acknowledgement for a research paper? Ans: The structure of your acknowledgement will depend on the specific guidelines of the journal or publication you are submitting to. In general, it is common to include a brief paragraph at the beginning of the paper expressing your gratitude to those who have helped with the research. You can then list the names of the individuals or organizations you are thanking, along with a brief description of their contributions.

5) Is it necessary to include an acknowledgement in my research paper? Ans: It is not always required to include an acknowledgement in a research paper, but it is a common practice and can be a good way to show appreciation for the help and support you received during the research process.

6) Can I include personal thanks in my acknowledgement for a research paper? Ans: It is generally acceptable to include personal thanks in your acknowledgement, as long as it is done in a professional and respectful manner. You may want to thank family members or friends who provided emotional support during the research process, but be mindful of maintaining a professional tone and not going into too much detail about personal matters.

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How To Write Acknowledgement For Research Paper

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Learn the best way to write an acknowledgement for a research paper right here.

Show Appreciation for Research Help in Acknowledgement Section

Your research paper’s acknowledgement section is the perfect spot to extend gratitude to anyone who lent support , guidance or aid during the research process. Express your appreciation clearly and respectfully for everyone who helped you achieve your set research goals.

For example, Say thank you to everyone who helped you with your research, such as your advisors, professors, colleagues, librarians, lab assistants, funding agencies, and anyone else who provided guidance, collaboration, or financial support.

Make a great first impression with your research paper by including an acknowledgement section right after the abstract but before the main body. Keep it short and sweet with a professional tone, and steer clear of casual language and personal stories. Show your gratitude without getting off topic.

Show Your Appreciation: The Importance of Acknowledgments in Research Papers

Acknowledging those who have helped you with your research is not just polite, it’s essential. By including a heartfelt acknowledgment section in your paper, you show the world that you are a grateful and conscientious researcher who recognizes the vital role others have played in your work. So don’t forget to express your thanks and appreciation to the people who have supported you along the way. It’s a small gesture that can go a long way in building strong relationships and fostering a spirit of collaboration in the academic world.

Here are some tips for writing an acknowledgement for a research paper:

  • Express gratitude to your research advisors and colleagues for their direct support.
  • Who helped fund your research? Please specify any organizations or funding agencies that provided financial support.
  • Remember to show your appreciation to librarians and research staff who helped you out.
  • Don’t forget to acknowledge anyone who helped you along the way, like lab assistants or research participants. Give credit where credit is due!
  • Give a concise and effective acknowledgement. You don’t have to delve into the specifics of each person’s contributions that you’re thanking.
  • Maintain a formal and professional tone while expressing your acknowledgement. Avoid using informal language and sharing personal stories in this context.

Here are some helpful acknowledgement samples for your research paper.

Acknowledgement For Research Paper Sample

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to everyone who helped make our research project a resounding success. Thank you.

We want to express our sincere gratitude to our amazing supervisor, [Name]. Their unwavering guidance, support, and encouragement have been the driving force behind our research success. With their incredible mentorship and expertise, we were able to steer our project in the right direction and turn our visions into reality.

Our research team, consisting of [Names], deserves our deepest gratitude for their invaluable input and assistance throughout the project. We couldn’t have achieved our goals without their tireless dedication and insights, and we appreciate all the hard work they put into making this research successful.

Our research would not have been possible without the financial support of [Name] and [Name]. We extend our gratitude to these organizations and individuals for their generous contributions.

Finally, Our study wouldn’t be successful without our participants’ generosity. We are grateful for their time, experiences, and insights shared with us. We extend our heartfelt thanks for their willingness to engage in our research.

Thanks to the immense support and contributions received from everyone, this research project has been made possible. We express our sincere gratitude towards all the individuals who helped bring this project to fruition. Our findings promise to bring significant value to the field.

Read Also: Get 15+ Acknowledgement Sample

Sample Acknowledgement For Research Paper

Many people and organizations helped us complete this research project. We are immensely grateful for their support and contributions, without which we could not have succeeded.

Special thanks to [Name], whose invaluable input and support greatly influenced the direction of this project. Their insights and expertise were truly instrumental during the research process.

We want to express our heartfelt appreciation to all the participants of our study who graciously shared their valuable time, experiences, and insights with us. Their active involvement was a key factor in achieving the goals of this project, and we are truly grateful for their contribution.

Small Acknowledgement Sample For Research Paper

Our advisors, Dr. Kapil Sharma and Dr. Sonney Deom, provided invaluable guidance and support throughout our research process. We also extend thanks to the XYZ Foundation for their financial support and the librarians at the ABC Library for their assistance in finding essential research materials. Lastly, we express our gratitude to the research participants who generously gave their time and effort to this project.

Note:  Your Acknowledgment to Show Specific and Sincere Appreciation

When thanking individuals or organizations, it’s crucial to acknowledge their contributions in a way that’s genuine and fitting. Depending on the context, you may need to adjust your language and tone accordingly. By taking the time to craft a personalized acknowledgment that highlights the unique impact of each contributor, you can show them the depth of your gratitude.

Conclusion On How To Write Acknowledgement For Research Paper

In conclusion, Gratefully acknowledging the help of others in your research paper is an essential step. It highlights the valued contributions of those who have offered support, guidance, and assistance along the way. To create an effective acknowledgement, sincerity and specificity are key. Address individuals by name and specify their roles and the ways in which they helped you, leaving no one unnoticed.

Make sure to follow specific guidelines for acknowledging help in your research paper. By doing so, you’ll effectively show your appreciation for the support you received during your research.

Read Also:  Master Thesis Acknowledgement Sample

FAQs On How To Write Acknowledgement For Research Paper

1) What is a good sentence for acknowledgement?

Ans:- Thank you for completing the project on time! Your efforts are very much appreciated. Your hard work and dedication throughout this challenging year deserve recognition – thank you! Your support and understanding during this difficult time mean a lot to me. Thank you for being there. Remember, the tone and wording of acknowledging someone may vary depending on the context and the relationship with the person being recognized.

2) Is conclusion and acknowledgement same?

Ans:- The end of a written piece is called the conclusion and it summarizes the key points and arguments. Acknowledgement is the act of showing gratitude for a person or thing’s contribution. These terms are commonly used in various scenarios and serve different purposes.

3) Who should I include in my acknowledgement for a research paper?

Ans:- Recognize the valuable contributions of supervisors, mentors, colleagues, and entities that provided financial or logistical support by mentioning them specifically in your research acknowledgments.

4) How should I structure my acknowledgement for a research paper?

Ans:- Make your acknowledgements count when submitting your research paper. Follow the guidelines of the journal or publication and start with a brief paragraph expressing your gratitude. Then list the names of the people or organizations who played a role, along with a description of their contribution. Don’t miss the opportunity to acknowledge those who helped make your work possible.

5) Is it necessary to include an acknowledgement in my research paper?

Ans:- Do you need to include an acknowledgement in your research paper? While it’s not mandatory, it’s become a common courtesy to show gratitude to those who assisted you during the research process. Show appreciation by including an acknowledgement section.

6) Can I include personal thanks in my acknowledgement for a research paper?

Ans:- It’s okay to express heartfelt gratitude in your acknowledgements, as long as it’s done with professionalism and respect. You may wish to acknowledge close friends or family members who emotionally supported you during your research, but avoid getting too personal and remember to keep it polished and appropriate.

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  • Charlesworth Author Services
  • 02 June, 2018
  • Academic Writing Skills

Most academic papers have many people who have helped in some way in the preparation of the written version or the research itself. This could be someone from a sponsoring institution, a funding body, other researchers, or even family, friends or colleagues who have helped in the preparation. These people need to be mentioned in the Acknowledgments section of the paper.

Acknowledgments section in different academic documents

The Acknowledgments section is present in both a paper and an academic thesis . For papers, the Acknowledgments section is usually presented at the back, whereas in a thesis, this section is located towards the front of the manuscript and is commonly placed somewhere between the abstract and Introduction . However, the exact location varies between each university , as each establishment possesses its own style guide for theses and student submissions. So, it is always worthwhile consulting your university’s academic style guide before writing a manuscript for undergraduate/postgraduate submission.

Acknowledgments section in theses

For academic theses, there is no right or wrong way to acknowledge people, and who you want to acknowledge is down to personal preference. However, the common types of people authors acknowledge in their academic theses include:

  • Supervisor’s contributions
  • Research group (especially if the thesis in question is a master’s and the work is helped along by a PhD student)
  • Support staff (laboratory technicians, etc.)
  • Any students who undertook side projects with them (e.g. final year undergraduates, summer students, master’s students)
  • Administrative staff (there can be a lot of bureaucracy for thesis submissions)
  • Referees that got them onto the course (postgraduate only)
  • Funding bodies
  • Any collaboration with industry and the people they worked with at said establishment(s)

Acknowledgments section in journal papers

Now, whilst university manuscripts can include any combination of the above (including all and none in some cases), academic publications in journals more commonly acknowledge the same kind of people/organizations, but again it is up to the author(s) what they feel should be acknowledged; not every piece of help needs to be acknowledged, just the most useful/prevalent help. Also, acknowledgments should be written in the first person .

Examples of whom and what should be acknowledged in a journal publication are listed below:

  • Direct technical help (e.g. supply of animal subjects, cells, equipment setup, methods , statistics/data manipulation, samples, chemicals/reagents, analytical/spectroscopy techniques)
  • Indirect assistance (topical and intellectual discussions about the research which can lead to generation of new ideas)
  • Affiliated institutions
  • Grant numbers
  • Who received the funding (if not the author, e.g. a supervisor)
  • Any associated fellowships

Whom to acknowledge - and whom not to acknowledge

  • Other authors/contributors : It is not common practice for the lead paper writer (i.e. the person writing and publishing the manuscript) to acknowledge the other authors/direct contributors to the paper. Only those who are not recognized as authors may be thanked and acknowledged.
  • Reviewers : Authors are also not allowed to thank reviewers personally, or those who inspire them but cannot directly receive their appreciation – although reviewers can be thanked if they are kept anonymous .
  • Friends and family : Unlike university manuscripts, journal manuscripts should not include help and guidance from family and friends.

Other acknowledgments

  • Titles and institutions : Titles such as Mr, Mrs, Miss, etc. are not commonly included, but honorary titles such as Dr, Professor, etc. are. The institutions of the acknowledged people are usually mentioned.

For example, the following would not be acceptable:

We dedicate this work to the deceased Prof. Bloggs.

However, the following would be acceptable:

We acknowledge Prof. Bloggs for discovering the secret of anonymity.

Additional pointers for writing the Acknowledgments section

  • The  tone  of the section should be in an active voice.
  • Do not use pronouns indicating possession (i.e. his, her, their, etc.).
  • Terms associated with specific companies should be written out in full, e.g. Limited, Corporation, etc.
  • If the results have been published elsewhere, then this should also be acknowledged.
  • Any abbreviations should be expanded unless the abbreviation appears in the main body of the text.

Below are examples of the Acknowledgments sections taken from a couple of papers from Nature Communications :

caption

Duan L., Hope J., Ong Q., Lou H-Y., Kim N., McCarthy C., Acero V., Lin M., Cui B., Understanding CRY2 interactions for optical control of intracellular signalling, Nature Communications, 2017,  8:547

Xu Q., Jensen K., Boltyanskiy R., Safarti R., Style R., Dufresne E., Direct measurement of strain-dependent solid surface stress, Nature Communications, 2017,  8:555

Many people think that the Acknowledgments section of a manuscript is a trivial and unimportant component. However, it constitutes a vital means to ensure that all affiliated support for the paper can be duly and transparently mentioned. By acknowledging people for their efforts and contributions, you demonstrate your integrity as an academic researcher. In addition, crediting other people for their help can also increase their presence in the academic world and possibly help to boost their career as well as your own.

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