Although it is a somewhat elusive and subjective thing to say, it is certainly true that nations and cultures that share a common language have some different styles in how they express themselves. Whilst discretion suggests that it is better not to be specific, some find expression in flowing and effusive words, for example “wonderful,” “stupendous,” “my heart goes out” and even “great and illustrious.” Other cultures are more reserved and prefer words such as “gratitude,” “thanks” and “appreciation.” So, especially if you are studying abroad, you should keep these points in mind when writing an acknowledgement.
Your supervisor will expect acknowledgement. If she gave you the most help, which should be the case, she should be the first to be named and should receive the warmest praise. Remember that she may continue to be of assistance in the future, either as a referee or even as a fellow academic or peer. If you do not appropriately acknowledge her, she will probably not mention it, but she may be offended. If you feel that your supervisor did not really help you and that your achievement was despite, rather than because of, her help, you should still make some acknowledgement, even if somewhat caustic or curt.
Although there is some implicit obligation to acknowledge your supervisor, there is no such onus for others. For this reason, you should consider carefully who gave you assistance, the manner in which it was given and how much you benefitted from it. Then compile a list in the order that you see the relative help given. Remember that others will know how much help they have given and will probably have some idea about relativity, so make sure that you are fair and objective. Academics are more sensitive than you might think.
Sometimes people have a way of making you feel that you should say that they have helped you when deep down you know that they haven’t. Their advice may have been unhelpful and self-seeking. If you experience this, you should not give them any unwarranted acknowledgement.
Sometimes, students feel that they should thank their parents regardless of whether they have assisted or not. This is a personal choice and nobody could question such an emotive decision. However, some acknowledgements are just too long and tedious and thank such a wide variety of people that a temptation is to ask the student if there is anybody that he has ever known that he has not thanked.
In the same sense, remember not to use too many words and phrases about the person that you are acknowledging. Either just acknowledge her help or find a summary word or phrase that states how she assisted you. For example, “Many thanks to my supervisor, without whose patience and wisdom this thesis could not have been completed.”