how to write an acknowledgement in a research report

Acknowledgement in Research Paper – A Quick Guide [5 Examples]

The acknowledgement section in your research paper is where you thank those who have helped or supported you throughout your research and writing. It is a short section of 3-5 paragraphs or no more than 300 words you put on a page after the title page.

In this post, we are going to provide you with five examples of acknowlegdement section and a handful of best practices you can make your work look professional.

Saying thank you with style

How to write an acknowledgement: the complete guide for students, why should i include an acknowledgement in my research paper.

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

What should be acknowledged about (aka thankful for)?

In your acknowledgement, 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 support that is obviously related to monetary support

Who should be included in the acknowledgement of a research paper?

You can include everyone who helped you technically, intellectually, or financially (assistance with grants or monetary help) in the process of researching and writing your research paper. Except for your family and friends, you should always include the full names with the title of these individuals:

• Your profession, supervisor, or teacher
• Academic staff (e.g. lab assistant) of your school/college
• Your department, faculty, college, or school
• Classmates, teammates, co-workers, or colleague
• Friends and family members

You can start with your professor or the individuals who supported you the most throughout the research. And then you can continue by thanking your institution and then the reviewer who reviewed your paper. Then you can thank your friends and families and any other individual who helped.

What is the tone of the acknowledgement in a research paper?

You should write your acknowledgement in formal language with complete sentences. It is appropriate to write in the first person (‘I’ for a single author or ‘we’ for two or more).

Note that  personal pronouns  such as ‘I, my, me …’ are nearly always used in the acknowledgements only. For the rest of the research paper, such  personal pronouns  are generally avoided.

Writing an acknowledgement for research paper is one of the important parts of your project report. You need to thank everyone for  helping you with your paper . Here are some examples of acknowledgement for your research paper.

Acknowledgement in Research Paper: Example 1

Acknowledgement in research paper: example 2, acknowledgement in research paper: example 3, acknowledgement in research paper: example 4, acknowledgement in research paper: example 5.

You can use these or try to create your own version for your project report. Also, you can use our auto  acknowledgement generator tool  to automatically generate acknowledgement for your project.

Where should I put the acknowledgement section?

The acknowledgements section should appear between your title page and your introduction in your research paper.

How long is an acknowledgement in a research paper?

The acknowledgement section (usualy inserted as a page) of your research paper should consist of 3-5 paragraphs or no more than 300 words you put on a page after the title page.

Should I use the full names of family members in an acknowledgement?

You do not necessarily need to use the full name for your family and friends (it would sound pretty awkward to use the full name of your parent or spouse right?), you should always include the full names with the title for all other individuals in your acknowledgement.

Can I use “first person” in an acknowledgement?

Yes. It is appropriate to write in the first person (‘I’ for a single author or ‘we’ for two or more).

What is an 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.

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?

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.

Other Popular Acknowledgement Examples

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

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

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

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]

How-to Guides on Academic Writing and Others

Most popular How to Write an Acknowledgement: The Complete Guide for Students How to Write an Acknowledgement for College Project? How to Write a Dedication Page for a Thesis or Dissertation? More on acknowledgements How to Write Acknowledgment for a Dissertation or a Thesis? Is Acknowledgement and Dedication the Same? Thesis or Dissertation How to Write a Master’s Thesis: The Ultimate Guide How to Write a Thesis Proposal? How to Write an Abstract for a Thesis? How to Write a Preface for a Thesis? Others How to Write an Introduction for a Research Paper? 7 Real Research Paper Examples to Get You Started How to Write Cover Letter for an Internship Program? How to Write an Internship Acceptance Letter? How to Write a Leave Application? For Schools and the Workplace How to Write a Resignation Letter?

Introduction to Academic Writing

By O.P. Jindal Global University Duration: 16-hour Cost: FREE Gain an in-depth understanding of reading and writing as essential skills to conduct robust and critical research for your writing.

Writing in English at University

By Lund University Duration: 24-hour Cost: FREE Learn how to structure your text and arguments, quote sources, and incorporate editing and proofreading in your academic writing.

Academic English: Writing Specialization

By the University of California, Irvine Duration: 6 months Cost: Free 7-day trial, USD39 per month The skills taught in this Specialization will empower you to succeed in any college-level course or professional field. You’ll learn to conduct rigorous academic research and to express your ideas clearly in an academic format. Share your Course Certificates in your LinkedIn profile, on printed resumes, CVs, or other documents.

Thank you, your samples really helped me.

This is great! Your samples really helped me in my research. Thank you and more power!

I’m so grateful that you make this kind of blog, I really need this for my research. Thank you so much… God bless you.

Thank you so much for the samples you have provided, it has helped me a lot.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

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

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

Academia Bees

Acknowledgement for Paper Publication (10 Samples)

July 11, 2023

No Comments

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.

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.

Rules for Dealing with Introverts: Complete Guide

How to write acknowledgement for research paper (5 samples), leave a comment cancel reply.

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

Work With Us

Private Coaching

Done-For-You

Short Courses

Client Reviews

Free Resources

The Acknowledgements Section

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

Overview: The Acknowledgements

• What (exactly) is the acknowledgements section?

Who should you acknowledge?

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

What is the acknowledgements section?

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

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

Need a helping hand?

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

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

Level 1: Supervisors and academic staff

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

Level 2: Funding bodies or sponsors

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

Level 3: Colleagues and peers

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

Level 4: Family, friends and pets

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

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

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

How to write the acknowledgements section

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

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

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

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

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

Practical Example

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

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

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

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

FAQs: Acknowledgements

Can i include some humour in my acknowledgements.

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

Can I acknowledge someone who provided informal or emotional support?

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

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

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

Can I acknowledge the contribution of participants in my research?

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

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

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

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

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

How do i acknowledge a group or organisation.

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

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

Recap: Key Takeaways

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

Remember to:

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

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

You Might Also Like:

How To Choose A Tutor For Your Dissertation

Hiring the right tutor for your dissertation or thesis can make the difference between passing and failing. Here’s what you need to consider.

5 Signs You Need A Dissertation Helper

Discover the 5 signs that suggest you need a dissertation helper to get unstuck, finish your degree and get your life back.

Writing A Dissertation While Working: A How-To Guide

Struggling to balance your dissertation with a full-time job and family? Learn practical strategies to achieve success.

How To Review & Understand Academic Literature Quickly

Learn how to fast-track your literature review by reading with intention and clarity. Dr E and Amy Murdock explain how.

Dissertation Writing Services: Far Worse Than You Think

Thinking about using a dissertation or thesis writing service? You might want to reconsider that move. Here’s what you need to know.

📄 FREE TEMPLATES

Research Topic Ideation

Proposal Writing

Literature Review

Methodology & Analysis

Academic Writing

Referencing & Citing

Apps, Tools & Tricks

The Grad Coach Podcast

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

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

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

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

Submit Comment

• Print Friendly