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Compare and contrast is a common form of academic writing, either as an essay type on its own, or as part of a larger essay which includes one or more paragraphs which compare or contrast. This page gives information on what a compare and contrast essay is , how to structure this type of essay, how to use compare and contrast structure words , and how to make sure you use appropriate criteria for comparison/contrast . There is also an example compare and contrast essay on the topic of communication technology, as well as some exercises to help you practice this area.
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To compare is to examine how things are similar, while to contrast is to see how they differ. A compare and contrast essay therefore looks at the similarities of two or more objects, and the differences. This essay type is common at university, where lecturers frequently test your understanding by asking you to compare and contrast two theories, two methods, two historical periods, two characters in a novel, etc. Sometimes the whole essay will compare and contrast, though sometimes the comparison or contrast may be only part of the essay. It is also possible, especially for short exam essays, that only the similarities or the differences, not both, will be discussed. See the examples below.
There are two main ways to structure a compare and contrast essay, namely using a block or a point-by-point structure. For the block structure, all of the information about one of the objects being compared/contrasted is given first, and all of the information about the other object is listed afterwards. This type of structure is similar to the block structure used for cause and effect and problem-solution essays. For the point-by-point structure, each similarity (or difference) for one object is followed immediately by the similarity (or difference) for the other. Both types of structure have their merits. The former is easier to write, while the latter is generally clearer as it ensures that the similarities/differences are more explicit.
The two types of structure, block and point-by-point , are shown in the diagram below.
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Compare and contrast structure words are transition signals which show the similarities or differences. Below are some common examples.
When making comparisons or contrasts, it is important to be clear what criteria you are using. Study the following example, which contrasts two people. Here the criteria are unclear.
Although this sentence has a contrast transition , the criteria for contrasting are not the same. The criteria used for Aaron are height (tall) and strength (strong). We would expect similar criteria to be used for Bruce (maybe he is short and weak), but instead we have new criteria, namely appearance (handsome) and intelligence (intelligent). This is a common mistake for students when writing this type of paragraph or essay. Compare the following, which has much clearer criteria (contrast structure words shown in bold).
Below is a compare and contrast essay. This essay uses the point-by-point structure . Click on the different areas (in the shaded boxes to the right) to highlight the different structural aspects in this essay, i.e. similarities, differences, and structure words. This will highlight not simply the paragraphs, but also the thesis statement and summary , as these repeat the comparisons and contrasts contained in the main body.
Title: There have been many advances in technology over the past fifty years. These have revolutionised the way we communicate with people who are far away. Compare and contrast methods of communication used today with those which were used in the past.
Before the advent of computers and modern technology, people communicating over long distances used traditional means such as letters and the telephone. Nowadays we have a vast array of communication tools which can complete this task, ranging from email to instant messaging and video calls. While the present and previous means of communication are similar in their general form , they differ in regard to their speed and the range of tools available . One similarity between current and previous methods of communication relates to the form of communication. In the past, both written forms such as letters were frequently used, in addition to oral forms such as telephone calls. Similarly , people nowadays use both of these forms. Just as in the past, written forms of communication are prevalent, for example via email and text messaging. In addition, oral forms are still used, including the telephone, mobile phone, and voice messages via instant messaging services. However , there are clearly many differences in the way we communicate over long distances, the most notable of which is speed. This is most evident in relation to written forms of communication. In the past, letters would take days to arrive at their destination. In contrast , an email arrives almost instantaneously and can be read seconds after it was sent. In the past, if it was necessary to send a short message, for example at work, a memo could be passed around the office, which would take some time to circulate. This is different from the current situation, in which a text message can be sent immediately. Another significant difference is the range of communication methods. Fifty years ago, the tools available for communicating over long distances were primarily the telephone and the letter. By comparison , there are a vast array of communication methods available today. These include not only the telephone, letter, email and text messages already mentioned, but also video conferences via software such as Skype or mobile phone apps such as WeChat, and social media such as Facebook and Twitter. In conclusion, methods of communication have greatly advanced over the past fifty years. While there are some similarities, such as the forms of communication , there are significant differences, chiefly in relation to the speed of communication and the range of communication tools available . There is no doubt that technology will continue to progress in future, and the advanced tools which we use today may one day also become outdated.
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Below is a checklist for compare and contrast essays. Use it to check your own writing, or get a peer (another student) to help you.
The essay is a essay | ||
An appropriate is used, either or | ||
Compare and contrast are used accurately | ||
The for comparison/contrast are clear | ||
The essay has clear | ||
Each paragraph has a clear | ||
The essay has strong support (facts, reasons, examples, etc.) | ||
The conclusion includes a of the main points |
There is a downloadable graphic organiser for brainstorming ideas for compare and contrast essays in the writing resources section.
Find out how to write cause & effect essays in the next section.
Go back to the previous section about persuasion essays .
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Author: Sheldon Smith ‖ Last modified: 08 January 2022.
Sheldon Smith is the founder and editor of EAPFoundation.com. He has been teaching English for Academic Purposes since 2004. Find out more about him in the about section and connect with him on Twitter , Facebook and LinkedIn .
Compare & contrast essays examine the similarities of two or more objects, and the differences.
Cause & effect essays consider the reasons (or causes) for something, then discuss the results (or effects).
Discussion essays require you to examine both sides of a situation and to conclude by saying which side you favour.
Problem-solution essays are a sub-type of SPSE essays (Situation, Problem, Solution, Evaluation).
Transition signals are useful in achieving good cohesion and coherence in your writing.
Reporting verbs are used to link your in-text citations to the information cited.
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A compare and contrast essay selects two or more items that are critically analyzed to demonstrate their differences and similarities. Here is a template for you that provides the general structure:
A range of example essays is presented below.
#1 jean piaget vs lev vygotsky essay.
1480 Words | 5 Pages | 10 References
(Level: University Undergraduate)
Thesis Statement: “This essay will critically examine and compare the developmental theories of Jean Piaget and Lev Vygotsky, focusing on their differing views on cognitive development in children and their influence on educational psychology, through an exploration of key concepts such as the role of culture and environment, scaffolding, equilibration, and their overall implications for educational practices..”
Thesis Statement: “The thesis of this analysis is that, despite the efficiency and control offered by authoritarian regimes, democratic systems, with their emphasis on individual freedoms, participatory governance, and social welfare, present a more balanced and ethically sound approach to governance, better aligned with the ideals of a just and progressive society.”
1190 Words | 5 Pages | 0 References
(Level: 4th Grade, 5th Grade, 6th Grade)
Thesis Statement: “While apples and oranges are both popular and nutritious fruits, they differ significantly in their taste profiles, nutritional benefits, cultural symbolism, and culinary applications.”
1525 Words | 5 Pages | 11 References
(Level: High School and College)
Thesis Statement: “The purpose of this essay is to examine and elucidate the complex and interconnected roles of genetic inheritance (nature) and environmental influences (nurture) in shaping human development across various domains such as physical traits, personality, behavior, intelligence, and abilities.”
1095 Words | 5 Pages | 7 Bibliographic Sources
(Level: 6th Grade, 7th Grade, 8th Grade)
Thesis Statement: “This essay explores the distinctive characteristics, emotional connections, and lifestyle considerations associated with owning dogs and cats, aiming to illuminate the unique joys and benefits each pet brings to their human companions.”
I’ve recorded a full video for you on how to write a compare and contrast essay:
Get the Compare and Contrast Templates with AI Prompts Here
In the video, I outline the steps to writing your essay. Here they are explained below:
First, I recommend using my compare and contrast worksheet, which acts like a Venn Diagram, walking you through the steps of comparing the similarities and differences of the concepts or items you’re comparing.
I recommend selecting 3-5 features that can be compared, as shown in the worksheet:
Grab the Worksheet as Part of the Compare and Contrast Essay Writing Pack
Once you’ve completed the worksheet, you’re ready to start writing. Go systematically through each feature you are comparing and discuss the similarities and differences, then make an evaluative statement after showing your depth of knowledge:
Get the Rest of the Premium Compare and Contrast Essay Writing Pack (With AI Prompts) Here
Compare and contrast thesis statements can either:
To write an argumentative thesis statement for a compare and contrast essay, try this AI Prompts:
💡 AI Prompt to Generate Ideas I am writing a compare and contrast essay that compares [Concept 1] and [Concept2]. Give me 5 potential single-sentence thesis statements that pass a reasonable judgement.
Take action! Choose one of the following options to start writing your compare and contrast essay now:
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Writing effective comparison/contrast essays.
Recall that a comparison/contrast essay serves the purpose of examining the similarities and/or differences between two subjects. When you compare things, you show their similarities; when you contrast things, you show their differences.
The first step in writing a comparison/contrast essay is to brainstorm ideas and decide upon a topic. It's important that you find two things that have enough similarities or differences in order to be able to effectively compare or contrast them. If you choose two things that are too similar, you’ll struggle to find meaningful differences. If you choose two things that are too different, you’ll struggle to find meaningful comparisons.
During the brainstorming stage of the writing process, you can use a variety of activities to help you generate ideas for your topic. It can be helpful to make a list of similarities and differences between your two subjects, then choose the ones that are most important to use in your comparison/contrast essay.
This will help you to see the multitude of similarities and differences, and then focus in on the most important ones to use in your essay:
Similarities | Differences |
---|---|
Both are cold-blooded reptiles. | Crocodiles are larger than alligators. |
Both eat a similar diet. | Crocodiles have a pointed snout, and alligators have a rounded snout. |
Both can move quickly on land. | Crocodiles live in saltwater, and alligators live in freshwater. |
Both live in a water environment. | Alligators live only in the U.S. and part of China, while crocodiles live across the globe. |
Clustering, or mapping, is another way to generate ideas using words, shapes, and lines that show the connections between those ideas.
As you narrow your focus, you will need to determine which points of comparison or contrast are most important. The number of points of comparison or contrast that you settle on will be driven by the topic you choose. However, for the comparison/contrast essay you’ll be writing for this course, you will need to focus in on two or three main points of comparison or contrast.
As you know, an outline can be a useful tool during prewriting to help you further develop the ideas and organization of your essay. Creating an outline will help you plan the way in which you want to organize your body paragraphs, and which details you want to include in each. This will help you to produce a sort of roadmap for your essay.
A good thesis statement is the cornerstone of any academic essay. During the brainstorming and prewriting steps, you will have selected a topic and chosen your strongest main points to either compare or contrast within your essay. This will help you further develop your thesis statement.
A good thesis statement should convey the main points of your essay and should avoid being overly generic.
Instead, a good thesis statement should provide more information on which points of comparison or contrast will be discussed in the essay. Below are some templates you can consider as you begin to draft your thesis statement. A good thesis statement is not required to follow one of these patterns, but as a beginning writer, you may find that they provide a helpful starting point.
For an essay contrasting two subjects, your thesis statement may look something like this:
{Subject 1} and {Subject 2} may appear similar, but they differ in {first point of contrast}, {second point of contrast}, and {third point of contrast}.
Or, if you are comparing two subjects, your thesis statement might look something like this:
{Subject 1} and {Subject 2} do not appear to have a lot in common, but they are very similar in {first point of comparison}, {second point of comparison}, and {third point of comparison}.
A thesis statement might meaningfully contrast two subjects using the template above, like this:
Paris and Tokyo are both large metropolitan cities, but they differ in terms of their job opportunities, average income, and living expenses.
Notice how the primary emphasis in the above thesis is about how the two cities differ based on the three points the author chose to focus on: job opportunities, income, and living expenses. This thesis statement gives the reader a clear idea of the specific points of contrast that will be covered within the body of the essay.
Now that you have your working thesis statement, you’re ready to begin thinking about how to organize the body paragraphs within your essay.
You may also consider your particular approach to the subjects as well as the nature of the subjects themselves; some subjects might better lend themselves to one structure or the other.
The point-by-point method, also known as the alternating format method, is one method of paragraph development and organization for a comparison/contrast essay.
When you use the point-by-point method, you are choosing one point of comparison and then writing one paragraph about each of your subjects that shows how they are similar or different.
IN CONTEXT If you are comparing two fast-food restaurants, McDonalds and Burger King, you would first determine your points of comparison. Let’s say you're going to focus on similarities in costs, menus, and taste. Your first body paragraph would consider the costs at McDonalds, and your second body paragraph would consider the costs at Burger King. Your third and fourth body paragraphs would consider the menus at McDonalds and Burger King, and your final two body paragraphs would consider the taste of the food at both restaurants.
This method of organizing is usually easier for the reader to follow, as the main points of the body paragraphs alternate in sequence between subjects.
To demonstrate this method, let’s take the thesis statement, "Paris and Tokyo are both large metropolitan cities, but they differ in terms of their job opportunities, average income, and living expenses." In this case, the author is focusing on the differences between the two cities in regard to three main points.
The block method, also known as the subject-by-subject method, is another method of paragraph development and organization in a comparison/contrast essay.
As the name implies, if you choose the block method, you will consider all of your points of comparison or contrast for one subject in the first two or three body paragraphs of your essay, and then discuss the same main points for the second subject in the remaining body paragraphs.
IN CONTEXT If you're contrasting your local grocery store with the giant superstore outside of town, you would first determine your points for contrast. You might choose to focus on the differences in prices, convenience, and atmosphere. You would begin the body of the essay by devoting one paragraph each to these three points about your local grocery store; then, you would write three paragraphs that show how the superstore is different according to those same points.
hint If you choose this method, pay special attention to transition use to help guide your reader.
To demonstrate this method, let’s again take the thesis statement, "Paris and Tokyo are both large metropolitan cities, but they differ in terms of their job opportunities, average income, and living expenses."
Given that comparison/contrast essays analyze the relationship between two subjects, it is also helpful to have some transitions on hand that will cue the reader to such analysis.
These words and phrases help to highlight the points you are trying to make by signaling the relationships between the subjects in a clear way.
Below are some sample transitional words and phrases that you may use to indicate a comparison or contrast.
Comparison Words/Phrases | Contrast Words/Phrases |
---|---|
Both | Alternatively |
Similarly | In contrast |
Likewise | One difference/another difference |
One similarity/another similarity | Conversely |
In comparison | Whereas |
Like | Nevertheless |
Similar to | Unlike |
In the same way | On the other hand |
Also | Despite |
Compared to | However |
In a similar fashion | While |
summary In this lesson, you learned how to begin putting your comparison/contrast essay together by first starting with brainstorming and prewriting, then moving on to drafting a thesis statement . There are two methods of organization for the body of a comparison/contrast essay that you can choose from: the point-by-point method and the block method . The specific way in which you organize your body paragraphs will be largely determined by your topic and subjects, your audience, and your purpose. Whichever method you choose, using transitions effectively can help readers follow along with your main points. Best of luck in your learning!
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About the slc.
Determining the Structure of your Essay:
Determining the structure of your essay is the most important step towards conducting and presenting to the reader a well-developed comparison. Students are often asked to compare things in twos. For example, compare these two articles, or two characters in a novel, or a film and a novel or an article and a poem... The possibilities are endless.
When you are faced with the task of having to compare and contrast, it can be overwhelming. You're thinking about two pieces of writing that you know are different, and perhaps there are some similarities, too, but how can you suddenly start talking about them both? Which one should I talk about first? Which one should I talk about last?
You pick one article to describe: Article A. Then you talk about Article B. Perhaps at the end, you talk about the similarities in both articles.
This format will consist of three main parts: A, B, and, finally, their similarities.
Although this format is an acceptable way of making comparisons, and it is sometimes used to present well-developed "compare and contrast" essays, the format has its weaknesses that can jeopardize an effective comparison.
What could happen when you use this format and you completely isolate Article A from Article B is that you make it more difficult to compare. Your final essay might end up divided in two parts: half of the paper talks about only Article A and the second half talks about only Article B . You do not want to split your essay into a description of Article A and a description of Article B because then it will be harder to compare them since you invested most of your energy into describing them and not comparing them.
The best way to avoid the Split Essay is to unify both split ends. Do not discuss Article B at the end. Talk about both A and B from the beginning. The question now is:
Break it down:
You do not get rid of the gap between the two halves of the essay that are split. You simply break it down . This is done by finding common themes, or points of comparison in Article A and Article B. Once you find those points of comparison, you can discuss each individual theme and how each shows up in Article A and B . Consider the following questions:
After developing a thorough explanation of the first theme, you can mow move on to discuss the second theme that appears in both essays and write about it. Ideally, each theme will be discussed thoroughly in its own paragraph, explaining how each is similar or different in Article A and Article B
During the seventies, Gabriel Garcia Marquez wrote his most famous novel, One Hundred Years of Solitude , in which he discussed themes regarding the solitude of Latin America.
In 1982, Marquez received the Nobel Prize in Literature for his novel and wrote a speech for this occasion. In his speech, he called attention to Latin American economic struggles and their historical context.
In 1990, Enrique Krauze, a Mexican economist, published an article in which he discussed the same topic: problems in Latin American economics.
The prompt says:
Compare and contrast Enrique Krauze's essay to the speech written by Marquez.
Possible approaches:
Option #1: Text by text comparison
First paragraph:
A: An explanation of Marquez's entire speech
Second paragraph:
B: An explanation of Krauze's entire essay
Third paragraph:
Similarities or differences
(this might lead to the "Split Essay" comparison)
Option #2: Point by point comparison
The breakdown: Finding common themes or points of comparison:
• Neoliberalism (free trade)
• US involvement
• Proposed solutions to the problems (macro or micro economy?)
A: Krauze's opinion on neoliberalism
B: Marquez's opinion on neoliberalism
A: US involvement good or bad? According to Marquez
B: US involvement good or bad? According to Krauze
Whatever other theme that stands out as significant for explaining the differences of opinions.
Sample paragraph:
Enrique Krauze and Gabriel Garcia Marquez take different positions in regards to the implementation of more neoliberalist policies in Latin American countries. While Krauze argues the need to expand open trade in Latin America to improve its economy, Marquez opposes this idea and argues that an open trade economy would only aid foreign investors in further exploiting the natural resources in Latin America. Krauze's support of neoliberalism is based on the idea that through a macro economy, the "undeveloped" countries will soon see the light at the end of the tunnel. On the other hand, Marquez rebuts this argument, claiming that the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, which forced neoliberalist policies onto Latin American countries, only served to increase their foreign debt.
Notice how the beginning of this paragraph discusses only one theme: neoliberalism. Also notice how the writer was able to incorporate both articles and not just one. Pay attention, too, to the use of words and phrases that juxtapose or suggest comparison. These words establish links between A and B .
Handout created by Rubén Garibaldo, Student Learning Center, University of California, Berkeley
©2006 UC Regents
Handout revised by Carolyn Swalina, Student Learning Center, University of California, Berkeley
©2011 UC Regents
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.
Published September 27, 2020. Updated May 4, 2022.
A compare and contrast essay discusses similarities and differences between two subjects. The discussion shows the writer’s deep understanding of both subjects.
This page will cover the following points:
What is a compare and contrast essay, step 1: choose what to compare and contrast, step 2: brainstorm similarities and differences, step 3: write an introduction and a thesis, step 4: use block method or point-to-point, step 5: write a conclusion.
A compare and contrast essay discusses the similarities and differences between two subjects. This shows a deep understanding of both subjects.
Sometimes, instructors ask students to weigh the positives and negatives of both subjects, choose which subject is better, and defend their position. Read the essay prompt carefully!
Worried about your writing? Submit your paper for a Chegg Writing essay check , or for an Expert Check proofreading . Both can help you find and fix potential writing issues.
In some classes, your instructor will tell you which two subjects to focus on. They’ll usually pick topics discussed in lectures.
For example, in an American literature course, your instructor may ask you to compare and contrast two writers like Allen Ginsberg and Jack Kerouac. Both were part of the same literary movement (the Beat Generation) but still had unique styles and priorities.
Your instructor may let you choose your subjects. Pick two people, things, or ideas discussed in class with clear differences but something in common, too.
Let’s say, for example, your class is talking about pizza (what a great class, right?). You’ll want to choose two subjects in that category that are comparable, such as New York-style pizza and Chicago deep-dish pizza. Both are types of pizza, and they both mean a lot to certain American cities.
You can also find ways to contrast these two pizzas. They both have a distinct shape and are eaten differently (try eating deep-dish pizza with your hands!).
Although your class probably isn’t talking about pizza, the point here is to pick two subjects that:
But how will you know if any given similarity or difference is important ? In the next section, you’ll brainstorm your essay’s main points and pick the ones that are most appropriate for your class.
By now, you’ve chosen (or were told) your two subjects. Next, it’s time to think about what differences and similarities your paper should focus on.
Since this brainstorming session is just for you, feel free to use whichever method you prefer. Some people like to use Venn diagrams to organize their thoughts. Others prefer a T-chart or just jotting ideas down.
Not all compare and contrast points are made equal. Think about what your instructor has talked about in class so far. Then, decide which points would sound the most appropriate for your course.
This is also a good time to revisit the prompt. Your instructor may have already hinted at what they’d like you to discuss in the instructions.
Here’s an example of a brainstorming session about New York- and Chicago-style pizza. Let’s figure out which of these compare and contrast points would be best for the paper:
Point #1: Because of the size, often sold by the slice, it is a quick fast-food option | Point #1: Mostly sold by the pie, making it more common for “sit-down” restaurants or at-home cooking |
Point #2: Hand-tossed crust | Point #2: Thick, deep crust |
Point #3: Important for NYC’s identity | Point #3: Important for Chicago’s identity |
Point #4: Many restaurants nearby make it | Point #4: Many restaurants nearby make it |
After brainstorming, you have four very different points for your pizza paper. Each could be helpful, depending on the class.
If the class is about local history, then the last point, “many restaurants nearby make it,” will be useful. If not, then that point is likely the least relevant.
Meanwhile, a class about United States history will care deeply about how these different foods helped shape the identity of Chicago and New York City, respectively (point #3).
Points #1 and #2 talk about the size and shape of the pizza. These would be great choices for a home economics class, where the preparation and presentation of the dish are important.
Whichever points you choose for your compare and contrast essay, make sure they make sense and seem relevant to your class. Never throw in an extra point just to reach the word count for the paper. Your instructor will be able to tell!
Once you have three or four relevant points for your compare and contrast essay, it’s time to write the thesis statement. This will tell your instructor why these similarities and differences are important and worth talking about in an essay.
The introduction is where you’ll tell your audience what your two subjects are. You’ll also discuss the main ways you plan to compare and contrast them.
One of the most important parts of your introduction (and the whole paper) is your thesis statement. The thesis is the main argument of your essay.
Why should someone care about the similarities and differences between these two subjects? That’s the question your thesis statement should answer.
Let’s think, for example, about the New York- and Chicago-style pizza essay. Why should your instructor care about comparing and contrasting these two pizza types?
Here’s an example thesis statement for that paper:
Both New York-style and Chicago deep-dish pizza are important to the identities of their respective cities. However, the fast, portable nature of by-the-slice New York-style pizza makes it easier for the average New Yorker to eat frequently than does the deep-dish pizza for Chicago residents.
This thesis statement not only points out differences and similarities between the pizzas but also begins to say why those differences matter. Remember that the rest of your paper should support the points made in your thesis statement and address important questions.
For example, in the pizza-paper thesis, common questions might include:
What makes New York-style pizza more portable? In what ways are these pizzas important to each city’s identity?
Now, you have a compelling thesis statement for your paper ready to go. Next, you’ll spend some time thinking about how you want to present the similarities and differences between your two subjects.
Would you like to talk about one subject at a time? Or would you prefer to switch between the two to better highlight their differences?
In the next section, you’ll learn the pros and cons of both of these styles. Then, you’ll decide which one is right for your paper.
Here’s what a well-outlined introduction looks like:
– Begin with a lighthearted discussion about the centuries-long debate over cats and dogs.
– Thesis statement: Cats and dogs have varying activity levels, maintenance needs, and ways of showing affection, which potential owners should keep in mind before deciding between the two.
There are many ways to format your compare and contrast paper. But to keep things simple, let’s focus on the two most popular strategies.
With the block method , you make all your points about subject #1 before switching to subject #2. You may dedicate one or even two full paragraphs to the first subject before comparing it with the second one.
Here’s an example outline for a block method essay:
Paragraph 1: Introduction
P2: Subject #1
P3: Subject #1 (continued)
P4: Subject #2
P5: Subject #2 (continued)
P6: Conclusion
There are pros and cons to each method. The main benefit of the block method is that it is easy to keep your paper organized. Because you’re only discussing one subject at a time, your instructor can easily tell what you’re talking about.
There are still cons to this structure, though. For example, it will be harder for your audience to remember the points you made about subject #1 when you finally get to subject #2.
If you want to more closely compare and contrast your two subjects, you’ll want to use the point-to-point approach.
With point-to-point, you’ll dedicate each of your body paragraphs to a similarity or difference between the two subjects. You’ll compare and contrast both subjects in each body paragraph.
Let’s take a look at an outline organized for the point-to-point method:
P2: Similarity #1
P3: Similarity #2
P4: Difference #1
P5: Difference #2
The main benefit of point-to-point is that the similarities and differences between your two subjects will be more clear. After all, you’re going back and forth between the two at all times.
Because you are switching so often, though, you’ll want to write very clearly. Be sure to use plenty of transition words, which you’ll learn more about in the next section. Otherwise, your instructor may lose track of what you’re discussing.
Both of these methods will work with most compare and contrast essays. You’ll have to decide for yourself if you feel your subjects would be better discussed one at a time (block method) or back and forth (point-to-point).
Transition words for a compare and contrast essay.
In a compare and contrast essay, you’ll be discussing at least two different subjects throughout the paper. That’s why it’s helpful to use transition words. These words will let your audience know when you’re moving on to a new topic or directly contrasting two ideas.
Here are some useful transition words for compare and contrast essays:
As you can guess, some of these words (ex: “similarly” and “likewise”) help you compare your two subjects. Here’s an example:
Pizza-by-the-slice places are an iconic image of New York City. Similarly , visitors to Chicago make it a point to find a deep-dish pizza restaurant.
Other transition words (ex: “in contrast” and “unlike”) point to an important difference. Let’s try one out:
Unlike New York-style pizza, which can be enjoyed on the go, Chicago deep-dish pizza is suited better for a traditional, sit-down restaurant.
Use these and other transition words to make your points more clear. Try using different transition words throughout your paper, such as using “similarly” once and then “likewise” the next time. That way, you can avoid monotonous sentences.
By the time you reach the conclusion of a compare and contrast paper, you’ve already done a lot of planning and writing. It’s completely understandable if you feel a bit burned out.
Like many other papers, you’ll want to use the conclusion of your compare and contrast essay to remind your instructor of your main points. But it’s also important not to copy and paste your introduction into the conclusion.
Try to find a new, eye-catching way to transition back into your main points and restate your thesis. Here’s an example for the New York- and Chicago-style pizzas:
In the season 2 episode of The Office (US), “Valentine’s Day,” Michael Scott visits downtown New York City and immediately runs into a Sbarro’s restaurant for a “New York slice.” The scene is a joke about Michael’s naïveté. But it also points to how second nature New York-style pizza is for experiencing the area. Both New York-style and Chicago deep-dish pizza hold a special place in their city’s identities…
As always, make sure whatever you write is appropriate for your class. With a topic as light-hearted as pizza, a quick The Office reference fits right in. But in other essays, a pop culture reference would be distracting.
Here’s an example of an outline for a conclusion:
– Talk about famous cats and dogs in pop culture and their personalities, like Chloe and Max from The Secret Life of Pets .
– Restate thesis: From the palaces of Ancient Egypt to the condos of modern-day New York City, both cats and dogs have long been revered for their companionship. Potential owners should consider cats and dogs’ varying activity levels, grooming needs, and ways of showing affection before deciding which pet is right for them.
Use your conclusion to reinforce the points made throughout the paper. Adding anecdotes like the one above can make your paper stand out and keep the attention of your instructor. It’s also a way to let them know that you took the assignment seriously from the beginning to the very end.
Before you turn in that paper, don’t forget to cite your sources in APA format , MLA format , or a style of your choice.
In many cases, your instructor assigns compare and contrast papers to test your comprehension of two subjects, as well as to see how well you understand authors, historical periods, or other concepts discussed in class.
Planning and writing these essays can be intimidating at first. In this guide, though, you’ll find helpful tips, from the first brainstorming session all the way to wrapping up the conclusion.
Published August 19, 2020.
By James Ardis. James is a writer who earned his MFA in Poetry from the University of Mississippi. He’s also taught English as a Second Language in South Korea, Thailand, and to refugees living in America.
Tips for crafting effective compare and contrast essays.
Comparing and contrasting is a common method used in academic writing to analyze the similarities and differences between two or more subjects. Whether you are a student working on an assignment or a professional writing a research paper, mastering the art of compare and contrast essays can greatly enhance your writing skills.
In this article, we will explore useful tips and provide examples to help you create compelling and well-structured compare and contrast essays. From understanding the purpose of the essay to organizing your thoughts and arguments effectively, we’ll cover key strategies to ensure your essay is clear, concise, and engaging.
Compare and contrast essays can be a challenging but rewarding type of academic writing. By comparing and contrasting two or more subjects, you can deepen your understanding of complex topics and improve your critical thinking skills. To help you write effective compare and contrast essays, follow these tips:
1. Choose an appropriate topic: Select two or more subjects that have some similarities and differences. This will make it easier to compare and contrast them effectively.
2. Develop a clear thesis statement: Your thesis statement should clearly state the purpose of your essay and the main points you will be comparing and contrasting.
3. Create a structure: Organize your essay in a way that makes it easy for the reader to follow. You can use a point-by-point or block structure, depending on your preference.
4. Provide evidence: Support your comparisons with evidence from the subjects you are analyzing. This could include quotes, statistics, or examples.
5. Use transitions: Transition words and phrases help to guide the reader through your essay and make it easier to follow your arguments.
6. Revise and edit: After you have written your essay, be sure to revise and edit it carefully. Check for grammar and spelling errors, as well as clarity and coherence.
By following these tips, you can write successful compare and contrast essays that impress your readers and demonstrate your understanding of the subjects you are analyzing.
When writing a compare and contrast essay, it is crucial to follow a clear structure to ensure that your arguments are presented effectively. The basic structure of this type of essay typically includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
Introduction: This section provides an overview of the topics being compared and contrasted. It should also include a thesis statement that highlights the main point of the essay.
Body Paragraphs: The body of the essay is where you provide detailed comparisons and contrasts between the two subjects. Each paragraph should focus on a specific point of comparison and include evidence to support your arguments.
Conclusion: In the conclusion, you should summarize the main points of the essay and restate the thesis. This section should also provide a final thought or insight to leave a lasting impression on the reader.
By following this structure, you can ensure that your compare and contrast essay is well-organized and easy for readers to follow.
When it comes to writing a compare and contrast essay, choosing the right topics is crucial. The topics you select will determine the focus of your essay and set the tone for the rest of your writing. Here are some tips for choosing the right topics:
Before you start writing a compare and contrast essay, it is essential to gather and organize all the necessary information. Begin by selecting the subjects you want to compare and contrast. Make sure they have enough similarities and differences to make your essay informative and engaging.
Once you have chosen your topics, gather relevant information from credible sources. This can include books, academic journals, articles, and reputable websites. Take detailed notes and highlight key points that you can use in your essay. Organize your information in a systematic way to make it easier to reference and use while writing.
Consider creating a T-chart or Venn diagram to visually map out the similarities and differences between your subjects. This can help you see the relationships between the two topics more clearly and guide your essay structure.
By effectively gathering and organizing information, you will set a strong foundation for your compare and contrast essay and ensure that your arguments are well-supported and coherent.
One of the key elements of a successful compare and contrast essay is a strong thesis statement. Your thesis statement should clearly outline the main points you will compare and contrast in your essay. It should also convey your overall argument and the significance of the comparison. Here are some tips for developing a strong thesis statement:
1 | Be specific: Make sure your thesis statement is clear and concise. Avoid vague language and provide a specific comparison or contrast. |
2 | Focus on the main idea: Your thesis statement should capture the main point of your essay and guide the reader on what to expect. |
3 | Provide a rationale: Explain why the comparison or contrast you are making is important and how it contributes to the understanding of the topic. |
4 | Use parallel structure: Ensure that the elements being compared or contrasted are presented in a parallel structure within the thesis statement. |
By following these tips, you can develop a strong thesis statement that sets the foundation for a well-organized and effective compare and contrast essay.
When writing a compare and contrast essay, it’s important to keep in mind a few tips and tricks to make your essay effective and engaging. Here are some strategies to help you craft a compelling piece:
1. Begin with a Strong Thesis Statement:
Start your essay with a clear and concise thesis statement that highlights the main points of comparison and contrast. This will help guide your reader through the rest of the essay and provide a roadmap for your argument.
2. Organize Your Essay Carefully:
Structure your essay in a logical and coherent manner. You can choose to arrange your points by subject or point-by-point, but make sure your essay flows smoothly from one section to the next.
3. Use Transition Words:
Transition words and phrases like “similarly,” “in contrast,” and “however” can help signal the relationship between different ideas and improve the overall coherence of your essay.
4. Provide Concrete Examples:
To illustrate your points effectively, include specific examples and evidence to support your comparisons. This will add depth and credibility to your argument.
5. Revise and Edit:
Finally, don’t forget to revise and edit your essay before submitting it. Check for spelling and grammar errors, ensure your ideas are clear and well-supported, and make any necessary adjustments to improve the overall quality of your writing.
By following these tips and tricks, you can write an effective compare and contrast essay that engages your reader and effectively communicates your ideas.
1. Online Learning vs. Traditional Classroom Learning
This essay compares and contrasts the benefits and drawbacks of online learning and traditional classroom learning. It discusses factors such as convenience, interaction with instructors, and learning outcomes.
2. iOS vs. Android: A Comparison of Smartphone Operating Systems
This essay delves into the differences between iOS and Android operating systems, comparing their user interface, app availability, customization options, and overall performance. It aims to help readers make informed decisions when choosing a smartphone.
3. Vegetarianism vs. Veganism: Contrasting Plant-Based Diets
This essay explores the distinctions between vegetarianism and veganism, focusing on their dietary restrictions, ethical considerations, environmental impact, and health benefits. It aims to assist individuals in understanding the differences and choosing the diet that aligns with their values and goals.
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Comparison/contrast is important because it is a useful tool for critical decision-making. Whether you are buying a new car or choosing a university, it is important to master the art of this critical writing and thinking skill. In writing the comparison/contrast essay, students often engage with the rhetorical strategy because it is an easy genre for them to develop topics and ideas. Since we compare and/or contrast things all of the time, students spend less time struggling to find a topic and more time working on the necessary skills to conquer this kind of paper. In addition, in writing the comparison/contrast, students learn to differentiate between two or more objects seeing how they are similar or how they are different.
Here are a couple of examples. If a photographer wants a new camera, that person may contrast Canon and Nikon. Or if someone wants a new cell phone, that shopper may contrast Samsung and Apple. In these two examples, the writers would develop criteria for contrasting the two companies and their products, and then based upon their criteria, they would identify which item they would purchase. These are two of the basic examples of how we use compare and contrast every day. Another way we use comparison and contrast is through juxtaposition. Juxtaposition places two items close together to create a specific effect, or so readers or viewers can draw conclusions by comparing their similarities or contrasting their differences.
First, what is the difference between comparing two items and contrasting two items? If we want to examine the similarities between two items, we compare them. If we want to look at their differences, then we contrast them. Often comparison/contrast explores both similarities and differences. For the purposes of this essay strategy, the term “comparison” will mean looking at both similarities and differences.
In choosing topics, writers must select item that have a basis of comparison (something that they both share in common) before they can see the similarities and differences between them. For example, one would not compare an apple with a flight attendant. One would not contrast a dog and a peanut. There must be some basis for comparing the two items. One could compare apples and oranges because they are both fruit, or one could contrast Dell computers with Apples because they both are brands of computers. “Fruit” or “computer” would be the basis in comparison for each of these topics.
To further develop the comparison, consider the following example: The photographer who is contrasting Nikon and Canon is contrasting cameras. But, even that is vague. Writers would want to make sure that they contrasting the same type of camera: two DSLRs with similar qualities : cost, number of pixels, lenses, other miscellaneous items that may be included with the purchase. If contrasting a regular Nikon 35mm film camera with a Canon Rebel DSLR, one would not be able to draw clear conclusions. They are completely different kinds of cameras.
It is deeply troubling to speak about traumatic violence and the bloody, desecrated, and destroyed property of those whose lives have been profoundly harmed without acknowledging the present moment. Since October 7, 2023, these concerns have been very much on my mind. The many months since then have been almost impossible to bear for so many, but none more than those who are trying to make lives in unlivable conditions in Palestine and in Israel. The incalculable, continued loss of life and limb haunt this essay alongside the captivity of so many innocent lives. And like so many of us , I struggle to find the right words, writing and rewriting these words, these sentences. How can I appreciate the differences between what those in Gaza, in the West Bank, and what those in Israel are experiencing right now, as I write in March of 2024? Thirty-one thousand dead (and counting), starvation, few medical supplies, the destruction of homes, businesses, schools, hospitals, museums, and archives, entire communities — how can these losses not figure in what I might say in this forum?
My work has been about the legacy of the Holocaust and violent criminal acts, the ways that such experiences continue to shape our lives in both intimate and more grand historical ways long after these horrific events. I have come to these stories through material remains, criminal evidence, the objects that were there then and are here now, and I have used these remnants to attempt to tell these difficult stories , stories often otherwise without words. In this respect, the tales I tell are forensic . They are pieced together from the objects that remain. But right now, the profound devastation that continues in Gaza, in particular, demands our attention. Some of what I have learned about trauma and loss from my work on Holocaust memory and criminal justice, might help us begin to confront the urgency of the present moment. By taking seriously the ties that bind us, these stories of tainted objects allow us to appreciate our connections to those who are suffering now, people like and unlike ourselves. Informed by the careful and painful work of scholars of Holocaust and traumatic memory, poets and writers who have drawn such connections, I enter this conversation. Their words inspire these musings. I offer them with humility.
In her 1990 essay “ Yom Hashoah, Yom Yerushalayim : A Meditation,” poet, activist and child survivor of the Holocaust Irena Klepfisz wrote about the First Intifada. She shaped this essay explicitly for Jewish Women’s Call for Peace, an organization that was devoted to ending the occupation. In this piece, Klepfisz carefully considered a series of challenges that remain all too familiar to many American Jews today. How do we appreciate the vulnerability of Jews or the importance of the Jewish state since the Holocaust? And, at the same time, how do we confront the urgency of Palestinian suffering then and now , under occupation and under siege in the present?
Over these many years, I have come to appreciate what happens when we address different experiences of trauma, violence, and profound loss next to each other, not to make them one and the same but to appreciate their similarities and their differences. Irena Klepfisz did this so long ago, delicately drawing out connections for the sake of justice and peace. Early in her brief essay, a text I have taught for over thirty years, Klepfisz already addressed the taboos around any analogizing of the Holocaust with what is happening in Israel/Palestine. She made clear the anguish that marks these commitments to respecting Jewish pain. And yet, she ventures to draw a connection.
“What does it remind you of?” I ask my mother, and read her the Newsday article about the Palestinian men in Rufus; rounded up by the Israeli police, they’re told to lie face down in a nearby field. “I know what it reminds me of;” she answers, and says nothing more.
Klepfisz made a formal connection. She asked her survivor mother what is already obvious, a relationship between something that was happening then, in the present moment of the Intifada, and what happened in their Holocaust past. Whether we want to acknowledge these associations or not, it is difficult not to see them, to feel them. This is where I find myself these days. I am back in familiar territory, writing about formal connections between different losses just as I did in American Jewish Loss after the Holocaust , but now the stakes feel much higher. I am not writing about everyday losses in American Jewish life, but rather the pain and sorrow of so many in Palestine and also in Israel and I do so from a distance. But there is more.
At the heart of her essay was Klepfisz’s address to a gathering of survivors and their families commemorating the forty-fifth anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising , a defiant act that took the life of her own father. In the talk, she described what it is that survivors mourn, not just on this designated occasion “but during all those frequent moments when memory of childhood or ghettos or camps is triggered by something in the present — an angle of someone’s jaw, a special shade of color, a faint smell of a certain food, a dream.” What does it mean to lose things that were once so familiar to us that we hardly paid any attention to them — a pair of sweatpants, an old comforter that, once brushed by violence, returns to us with a vengeance, as a deep reminder of all that we have lost ? In those daily moments, Klepfisz explained, “the fabric of our present life tears apart” and “survivors mourn and mourn again.” But what I find even more haunting right now is how she described what it is that survivors mourn, what the Holocaust meant to them. She begins with der khurbn , the destruction and devastation that survivors experienced, noting that it
is not general but very specific. It is reflected in precious sepia photographs pasted into incomplete family albums. It consists of identifiable names, of familiar faces of family members, of named streets, stores, and schools, teammates, friends, libraries, doctors, hospitals, lectures, marches, strikes, political allies and enemies — the people, places, and institutions that make up the fabric of any human being’s ordinary, everyday life. It is these specifics and the loss of that ordinary life that survivors remember and mourn.
Reading this familiar passage in the present, what does it remind you of? The loss of once familiar names and faces, streets, stores, libraries, hospitals, everyday objects, a dress, a pair of sneakers, a child’s bicycle, or a sweater? Like Klepfisz’s mother, I know what they remind me of. I cannot stop these associations.
My scholarship has focused on the ongoing effects of trauma and violence and how we live with these legacies. These days, I still take my cues from Klepfisz. I do this even as I turn my gaze to the material remains of the present conflagration, the similarities and the difference between those once ordinary possessions and the ones I have written about — Holocaust objects and criminal evidence. These remnants that were there then, and are accumulating now, are a way into sharing these tortured tales. The objects are but one way of recognizing the tangible toll of violence and its rippling effects over and across time. These are scars that do not disappear. Rather, they constitute abiding reminders of these legacies, showing us in visceral and material ways how our everyday lives can be torn apart over and over again and how difficult it is to remake our lives in the aftermath. They constitute our undoing .
For me, this has meant finding, reading, and telling forensic stories with the hope that these painful tales just might help us carry on. And in the most hopeful of circumstances, these stories enable us to build on what Michael Rothberg calls “ differentiated solidarities .” These kinds of intimate alliance can help us resist these all-too-often horrific cycles of violence. As Klepfisz suggested so long ago, these tales are not merely about the past. They insist on speaking to us in the present. They demand that we confront the ongoing destruction of ordinary lives. Sharing these stories is doing justice. It is a crucial way to begin to resist the cycles of vengeance and ongoing violence.
How can we do justice to these experiences? As the poet Maggie Nelson explains, justice does not come from on high. It need not always be “rendered,” “served,” or “done” in the passive voice. It need not always swoop down — from God, from the state — like a bolt of lightning, a flaming sword come to separate the righteous from the wicked in the Earth’s final hour.” Instead, what she calls for is “something we can give to one another, something we can make happen, something we can create together down here in the muck.” Writing about her aunt’s thirty-plus-year-old unsolved murder, Nelson resists the allure, the promise of a courtroom doing justice to her aunt’s life and death, through her forensic writing in both her book of poetry, Jane: A Murder , and her memoir about the trial, The Red Parts . In these texts, Nelson honors the broken nature of this story of a life and its violent, abrupt ending — a tale told in pieces. Like Nelson, we do this kind of justice by attending not only to the scars, but also to the wounds that are open and festering right now. My work has focused primarily on the aftermath of violence and not so much on its abiding presence. And yet, knowing what I know, I find this distinction untenable. Being attentive to the destruction of everyday life is an ongoing struggle and even those of us who have known the terror of violence cannot turn away.
This essay is indebted to the Society of Jewish Ethics, where I presented some of this material on January 5, 2024, and to Suffolk University, which hosted “The Ties that Bind Us: Forensic Storytelling Across the Ages,” a conversation with Barbara Abrams that took place on March 21, 2024.
Laura Levitt is Professor of Religion, Jewish Studies, and Gender at Temple University and a Benedict Distinguished Visiting Professor of Religion at Carleton College (Winter/Spring, 2024). Levitt is the author The Objects that Remain (2020); American Jewish Loss after the Holocaust (2007); and Jews and Feminism: The Ambivalent Search for Home (1997) and a co-editor of Impossible Images: Contemporary Art After the Holocaust (2003) and Judaism Since Gender (1997). Levitt edits NYU Press’s North American Religions Series with Tracy Fessenden (Arizona State University) and David Harrington Watt (Haverford College). Levitt is currently editing with Oren Stier (Florida International University) a special issue of MAVCOR on “Interrogating the Sacred: Tending to Holocaust Objects” and has begun a new project on former East German writer Christa Wolf.
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by Guest Contributor · Published October 23, 2018 · Updated December 8, 2021
By Jason Brown
The process of discovering how and why purpose and audience are important often begins with a discussion of the five paragraph essay , a canned structure most, if not all, are familiar with in their prior educations. We delve into its merits and downsides, and we arrive at a point where they can see why and where it has its limitations when it comes to purpose and audience, or, frankly, why they are nonfactors in such a formalized style like the five-paragraph essay. This is all the more the case if the topic has also been defined by the instructor. Soon after this discussion, my students transition into a unit on personal essay writing and write responses to a few freewriting prompts where I stress the importance of having a real purpose in mind. That is, if one is composing a personal essay, make sure that you capture a sense of what you want your audience to understand about your experience. Is the essay teaching a lesson about how not to make the same mistake(s) the writer did? Is the essay showing how the writer overcame some period(s) of adversity? Perhaps the purpose is as simple as just trying to elicit an emotional understanding from the audience. Surely each author’s purpose will vary depending on the moment(s) the author is trying to capture in a personal essay. No matter, my students are able to put into practice the concept that college level writing demands an understanding of what your audience will need and, in turn, that doing so often shapes the purpose.
This knowledge is then further enriched when we move into the next unit that asks them to write a compare and contrast essay. There is a threat that all of those critical thinking skills they have just come to grasp go by the wayside given the highly structured, often basic nature of most compare and contrast essays. That is, one can write a simply structured, easily digestible compare and contrast essay in one of 2-3 formats, all while demonstrating the similarities and differences of the chosen topics (or perhaps parts of a larger topic). From their perspective, they probably assume this essay will likely write itself as the format is largely already baked in and one only needs to find similarities and differences. I imagine, for them, it comes as a great disappointment when I tell them precisely not to take such a rudimentary approach as doing so will not foster much in the way of critical thinking and is merely informational rather than evaluative . I do stress that similarities and differences are an important discovery, but I also remind them that presenting those in an “A next to B” fashion will not interest the audience (in all likelihood) and that the purpose will only serve to show the most obvious of information.
This is also where I have to be careful in what I tell them to look at on the Excelsior OWL site in the way of the “Compare & Contrast Essay” materials. I find that most of the materials lend themselves to a fairly basic approach, the same one I have just told them to shy away from. As a supplement, I often discourage them from pursuing subjects like that of the first sample essay, wherein one would find the similarities and differences between two forms of social media. In my opinion, those similarities and differences will be clear to most if they have ever used social media in any way and thus, for me, there really is no purpose nor is the audience interested if they have ever used Facebook or Twitter for more than 15 minutes. On the whole, I find that sample essay to be far too elementary for what I’m asking my students to do.
Furthermore, the topic of the first sample essay does not align with the statement offered in the “Think Before You Begin” section (only two slides prior) that promises the following under the “Audience” section: “Are you providing the reader with a new approach or knowledge about your topic?” I just outlined that, in my opinion, that sample essay does not offer “new knowledge”. In addition, the sample essay also has seven paragraphs (which is perfectly fine by me as I often encourage students to go beyond the restrictions of the five paragraph model as aforementioned), but the video preceding the sample essay suggests sticking to the five paragraph structure. In short, the “Think Before You Begin” audience section suggests picking a topic that is not commonplace; the video then suggests useful tips and approaches but insinuates one stick to an introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion; and, lastly, the sample essay delves into a hackneyed topic over more than five paragraphs. For me, and I imagine my students, there is a fair amount of confusion between those three slides. In addition, they collectively suggest that one should present only similarities and differences in a compare and contrast essay.
Jason Brown is an Assistant Professor of English at Herkimer Community College, in Herkimer, NY. He is also a member of the OWL Advisory Board.
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Matt Ellis. Updated on June 2, 2022 Students. A compare-and-contrast essay is a style of essay that points out the similarities and differences between two or more subjects. It's ideal for showing what separates and unites related things or concepts, particularly if the subjects are often confused for each other or unjustly lumped together.
As the name suggests, comparing and contrasting is about identifying both similarities and differences. You might focus on contrasting quite different subjects or comparing subjects with a lot in common—but there must be some grounds for comparison in the first place. ... How to write an expository essay An expository essay provides an ...
Make sure they have enough similarities and differences to make a meaningful comparison. 2. Brainstorm key points: Once you have chosen the subjects, brainstorm the key points you want to compare and contrast. These could include characteristics, features, themes, or arguments related to each subject. 3.
To write a good compare and contrast essay, it's best to pick two or more topics that share a meaningful connection. The aim of the essay would be to show the subtle differences or unforeseen similarities. By highlighting the distinctions between elements in a similar category you can increase your readers' understanding.
This handout will help you first to determine whether a particular assignment is asking for comparison/contrast and then to generate a list of similarities and differences, decide which similarities and differences to focus on, and organize your paper so that it will be clear and effective. It will also explain how you can (and why you should ...
Use Clear Transitions. Transitions are important in compare and contrast essays, where you will be moving frequently between different topics or perspectives. Examples of transitions and phrases for comparisons: as well, similar to, consistent with, likewise, too. Examples of transitions and phrases for contrasts: on the other hand, however ...
7.1: The Compare/Contrast Essay - Similarities and Differences Come to Light. Think of the Compare/Contrast essay as a bridge between both the Personal Essay and the Issues (Research) Essay. To begin, we often compare and contrast things in our everyday lives—what gas station to go to, what to major in, which job is better, etc.
Brainstorm the similarities and differences between your chosen subjects. Choose a structure for your essay and plan how you will write it. Write up your comparison and use evidence to support your argument. Revise and proofread your essay to make sure it is perfect. For more advice on each stage, check out our guide below. 1.
A comparative essay asks that you compare at least two (possibly more) items. These items will differ depending on the assignment. You might be asked to compare. Although the assignment may say "compare," the assumption is that you will consider both the similarities and differences; in other words, you will compare and contrast.
The compare-and-contrast essay starts with a thesis that clearly states the two subjects that are to be compared, contrasted, or both and the reason for doing so. The thesis could lean more toward comparing, contrasting, or both. Remember, the point of comparing and contrasting is to provide useful knowledge to the reader.
4.1 Comparison Essay Outline Example. 5 Tips to Write a Compare and Contrast Essay. 5.1 Comparison Essay Format. 6 Bringing It All Together. As we navigate our lives, we can't help but notice the elements in our environment, whether it's the latest car, a fashion trend, or even some experiences. Think about your favorite Mexican restaurant ...
4. Outline your body paragraphs based on point-by-point comparison. This is the more common method used in the comparison and contrast essay. [6] You can write a paragraph about each characteristic of both locations, comparing the locations in the same paragraph.
The Structure of a Compare/Contrast Essay. The compare-and-contrast essay starts with a thesis that clearly states the two subjects that are to be compared, contrasted, or both and the reason for doing so. The thesis could lean more toward comparing, contrasting, or both. Remember, the point of comparing and contrasting is to provide useful ...
To compare is to examine how things are similar, while to contrast is to see how they differ. A compare and contrast essay therefore looks at the similarities of two or more objects, and the differences. This essay type is common at university, where lecturers frequently test your understanding by asking you to compare and contrast two theories ...
The purpose of writing a comparison or contrast essay is not to state the obvious but rather to illuminate subtle differences or unexpected similarities between two subjects. The thesis should clearly state the subjects that are to be compared, contrasted, or both, and it should state what is to be learned from doing so. ...
Here they are explained below: 1. Essay Planning. First, I recommend using my compare and contrast worksheet, which acts like a Venn Diagram, walking you through the steps of comparing the similarities and differences of the concepts or items you're comparing. I recommend selecting 3-5 features that can be compared, as shown in the worksheet:
1. Brainstorming and Prewriting. Recall that a comparison/contrast essay serves the purpose of examining the similarities and/or differences between two subjects. When you compare things, you show their similarities; when you contrast things, you show their differences. The first step in writing a comparison/contrast essay is to brainstorm ...
Compare and contrast Enrique Krauze's essay to the speech written by Marquez. Possible approaches: Option #1: Text by text comparison. First paragraph: A: An explanation of Marquez's entire speech. Second paragraph: B: An explanation of Krauze's entire essay. Third paragraph: Similarities or differences (this might lead to the "Split Essay ...
Follow these essential steps to write an effective compare and contrast essay: Choose what two subjects to compare and contrast. Brainstorm similarities and differences between the two subjects. Develop a thesis statement and write an introduction. Write an analysis, using the block method or the point-by-point method.
4. Provide evidence: Support your comparisons with evidence from the subjects you are analyzing. This could include quotes, statistics, or examples. 5. Use transitions: Transition words and phrases help to guide the reader through your essay and make it easier to follow your arguments. 6. Revise and edit: After you have written your essay, be ...
A compare and contrast essay does two things: It discusses the similarities and differences of at least two different things. First, you must find a basis of comparison to be sure that the two things have enough in common. After that, you identify their differences. You may structure the compare and contrast essay using either the alternating ...
A compare and contrast essay describes a relationship between two subjects in terms of points of similarities (comparisons) and differences (contrasts). The essay can be structured according to:
In writing the comparison/contrast essay, students often engage with the rhetorical strategy because it is an easy genre for them to develop topics and ideas. ... Often comparison/contrast explores both similarities and differences. For the purposes of this essay strategy, the term "comparison" will mean looking at both similarities and ...
The incalculable, continued loss of life and limb haunt this essay alongside the captivity of so many innocent lives. And like so many of us, I struggle to find the right words, writing and rewriting these words, these sentences. How can I appreciate the differences between what those in Gaza, in the West Bank, and what those in Israel are ...
This goes well beyond finding similarities and differences and the rigidity of the five-paragraph essay. It taps into arguably every professor's hope that his or her students learn and demonstrate critical thinking in college level writing assignments. Jason Brown is an Assistant Professor of English at Herkimer Community College, in Herkimer ...