Comparison/Contrast Essay

Definition 

In comparison and contrast essays, the writer places two subjects side by side and examines their similarities and/or differences in order to clarity the qualities of each (to inform) or to make a point (to persuade).  Comparison and contrast papers can be used independently with just similarities or differences or in combination covering both similarities and differences.  These essays are important since they allow you to show your knowledge of two subjects while analyzing the relationship between them. 

Thesis Development 

The thesis of the essay should name the subjects (A and B) and announce the focus of the contrast and comparison.  The thesis also states a general opinion but leaves the explanation of the points of comparison to the body of the essay.   For example, if the essay compares two sports, the writer’s thesis might express opinions regarding the cost, danger, difficulty, etc. of the one sport compared to the other.  A thesis also might deal with surprising similarities between two seemingly different subjects. 

Organization 

Essays that compare and contrast two subjects use either a subject-by-subject or a point-by-point structure.  In a subject-by-subject structure, the writer describes one subject first and then moves on to the second subject.  In such a structure, the writer would discuss everything about subject A before moving on to discuss subject B.  This structure results in larger blocks devoted to each subject. 

In a point-by-point structure, the writer organizes his or her writing around specific points of similarity or difference between the two subjects, so each subject is discussed in relation to a point o similarity or difference.  This structure results in both subject A and B being discussed within a paragraph. 

 EXAMPLES 

Subject-by-Subject Pattern 

1. Introduction 

2. Subject A 

1. Point #1 

2. Point #2 

3. Point #3 

4. Point #4 

3. Subject B 

1. Point #1 

2. Point #2 

3. Point #3 

4. Point #4 

4. Conclusion 

* Note:  The points for Subject A and Subject B correspond. 

Point-by Point Pattern 

1. Introduction 

2. Main Point #1 

1. Subject A 

2. Subject B 

3. Main Point #2 

1. Subject A 

2. Subject B 

4. Main Point #3 

1. Subject A 

2. Subject B 

5. Main Point #4 

1. Subject A 

2. Subject B 

Tips on Writing 

• Select the subjects for your comparison/contrast with a purpose and audience in mind.  Consider why and how you plan to bring these two topics together. 
• Are you trying to help your reader understand the topics more thoroughly or are you trying to persuade your reader of something? 
• List similarities and differences in your subjects before planning your structure and outline. 
• Decide if your subjects share more similarities or differences.  You will want to choose carefully what aspects you will emphasize so that your reader has a clear impression and understanding. 

Pitfalls to Avoid 

Avoid obvious comparisons.  It’s not very interesting to hear what you already know, so try examining similarities or differences that aren’t obvious. 

Avoid incomplete comparisons. A comparison that does not discuss the same elements for both topics would confuse your reader. 

Avoid confusing comparisons.  If the writer shows only the similarities, the reader will wonder if the two subjects are identical.  If the writer shows only differences, the reader might wonder why they are being compared. 

Essay Guidelines 

• Due dates:  Pre-Writing due November 14; Rough Draft due November 28; Final Draft due December 12.  
• Essay length:  800 – 1000 words (at least 2 ½ pages) 

• Rough drafts can be typed or hand-written, but must be double-spaced. 
• Final draft format:  
• Typed (if this is not possible, please let me know) 
• 1 inch margins 
• Name and date on the upper right hand corner 

• Number the pages on the lower right hand corner 
• Title centered above the text of the essay