What to write in your PhD thesis acknowledgements section: who to thank and how to thank them
When it comes to crafting your thesis, there's one section that often gets overlooked or hastily penned - the acknowledgements!
Some students wonder, "What should I write for this bit?" or even question whether they should include it at all.
In this post, we'll consider the why, who, and what of acknowledgements to help you understand the importance of this section and how to approach it with thoughtfulness and gratitude.
Why It Matters
The acknowledgements section may seem like just another administrative task, but it holds significant value. Consider this: your thesis, in one form or another, will persist in electronic or hard copy format. The acknowledgements section is your chance to recognize and express gratitude for the contributions of those who have supported you throughout your academic journey. Everyone who finishes a PhD thesis does so because they've been supported by other people along the way.
This section is a genuine opportunity to honor and thank those who've made substantial contributions to your thesis completion.
Who to Thank
When you sit down to write your acknowledgements, there are three main categories of individuals and organizations to consider:
Supervisors and Faculty Members
Your academic journey would be incomplete without the guidance and support of your supervisor and faculty staff. Personalize your thanks by highlighting specific instances where their support was pivotal to your research process. How did their guidance shape your work, and how did it contribute to your growth as a scholar?
Funding, Resources, and Access Providers
If you received funding or utilized specific resources or gained access through organizations, don't forget to acknowledge them. This could be a scholarship, a grant, access to archives, libraries, or research centers. Additionally, if someone played a crucial role in facilitating your access to participants or data, thank them. However, always seek their permission before naming them in your acknowledgements.
Friends and Family
While their support may not be directly related to your academic work, the emotional and practical support from friends and family can be instrumental in your success. They may have provided a listening ear, helped with household chores, or offered encouragement during challenging times. Sharing specific moments when their support made a significant difference adds a personal touch to your acknowledgements.
Crafting Your Acknowledgments
When crafting your acknowledgements section, consider the following tips:
Be sincere and heartfelt in your thanks.
Use specific examples to illustrate the impact of the support you received.
Always seek permission before naming individuals or organizations.
Maintain a positive and gracious tone throughout the section.
In conclusion, the acknowledgements section in your thesis is far from a mere formality. It's an opportunity to express gratitude, recognize the contributions of others, and add a personal touch to your academic work.
So, when you're struggling with the question, "What should I write for this bit?" remember that it's a chance to honor those who've walked alongside you on your academic journey.
By taking the time to thoughtfully craft your acknowledgements, you not only pay respect to those who've supported you but also add a human touch to your academic endeavor. Your thesis is a reflection of your hard work and the collaboration of many, and the acknowledgement section is your chance to give credit where it's due.
Need help writing up your PhD thesis?
Check out my self study guide, which will help you write up everything from title to appendices! Details below.
