How to Write an Acknowledgments Page

Behind every book is a team: a spouse who brings tea, a kind relative who looks after distracting children, friends who read multiple drafts, and mentors who provide encouragement on the hard days. Getting a manuscript in shipshape may take: a concept coach, a developmental editor, a copy editor, and designers. Other important people may be agents, publishers, networking connections, financial supporters, organizations, those who provide endorsements, or the foreword author. Finally, there are pets, objects, or places helped along the way, such as a local coffee shop.

The acknowledgments page of a book gives the author a chance to thank all the people who made it possible. While it is not required, most authors choose to include one (it’s a nice thing to do!).

When it comes time to write this important part of your book, here are some tips to guide you:

1. Make and categorize a list. Begin by making a list of all the people (things or places) you want to thank. Take a moment to remember each step of the project and who was instrumental along the way.

   Next, categorize the list. For example: family and friends, editors and agents, organizations and financial contributors. Combining and categorizing the list helps makes sure no one is forgotten and provides structure as you write (each category could be a paragraph).

2. Be specific in your thanks.
   People will read this page, especially the people who are mentioned in it. The more specific you can be, the more you are showing you recognize their help.

   For example, instead of, “Thanks to my husband for his support,” be specific: “Thank you to my wonderful husband who stayed up with me for every late writing night and who always made coffee in the morning. Without you, I could not have done it.”

   Be specific with groups as well. Instead of, “I want to thank the Inspira publishing team,” mention specific people: “I want to thank the Inspira publishing team: Arlyn, my patient editor, Tim, my thorough proofreader, and Krista, who kept me organized.”

3. Write what is needed.
   Don’t worry about length. While acknowledgments pages are usually a couple paragraphs, there is no length requirement. It is better to make sure everyone is included (and made to feel special) and go over a page than be limited to a few paragraphs.

   Use an appreciate tone. For family, friends, and inanimate objects, you may want to use a humorous and light tone, or perhaps one that is deeply sincere and heartfelt. When thanking a organization for a monetary grant, you will want to be more professional. Organizing your list into categories will allow you to switch tones as appropriate.

The acknowledgments page is not obligatory, but we highly recommend it. It is an opportunity to focus on others and provide the gift of thanks.It can mean so much for a personal connection to be mentioned. It can also serve as a positive affirmation and professional review for the specific contributors mentioned. (The Inspira team always appreciates it!)

Have fun, and bless others.