Thesis and Dissertation Writing in a Second Language: a handbook for Supervisors

Conclusion
The Abstract and Acknowledgements sections are, thus, short but important
pieces of text. They orient the reader to what the student has done as well as
where the student is placed in various scholarly and social networks. These
seemingly simple texts need as much attention as other parts of student’s text.
Like the table of contents, the Abstract and Acknowledgements sections are
often the last thing a student writes, but among the first things an examiner
reads. As Finn (2005: 118) argues, ‘first impressions last’ in the examination
process. Clear and well-written Abstracts and Acknowledgements sections can
help make that first impression a good one.
162
Writing  the Abstract  and Acknowledgements
I would also like to extend thanks to the faculty members of the
Department of Cultures and Values for their generosity, especially
Dr David Smith, Grace Wong-McAllister, Dr Ratna Ghosh and Dr
Bill Lawlor, whose magical presence I miss tremendously.
Special thanks is reserved for my father, who helped me gather
several of my references when I sat on many library floors on the
verge of frustration and for just being there. In addition, I am
indebted to my younger brother, Atiba Lewis, whose extensive
computer skills saved me on several occasions.
*  This thesis is dedicated to the memory of Frances Falmer.
(Lewis 1998)