How to write a compare-and-contrast essay

What is a compare-and-contrast essay, and how do I start?

The purpose of a compare-and-contrast essay is to explore the differences and similarities between ideas, books, fictional characters, or people. To write a compare-and-contrast essay, tap into the analytical side of your brain. Follow these steps to write your comparing and contrasting essay.

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Choose topics that can be compared

Before you start your essay, you’ll need to identify two topics that begin with some similarities. For example, if you choose topics like “the best hypoallergenic dog breeds” and “the best TV shows of 2023,” you’ll have a difficult time creating a compare-and-contrast essay on these topics since they have nothing in common.

Create a Venn diagram

A Venn diagram of two overlapping circles is one of the easiest and most common visuals for comparing and contrasting. In one circle, list the core traits of your first topic. In the second circle, note your second topic’s traits that feature strong contrasts from the first. Place the similarities between the two topics in the narrow section in the center (where the circles overlap). As you write your essay, use your Venn diagram as a reference to keep you on track and ensure you’ve covered each essential point.

Develop a thesis statement

Creating a thesis statement will be much easier now that you’ve identified the topics you want to compare and contrast. Your thesis statement will help the reader understand the main points of your essay. Check out these tips on how to write a thesis statement.

Create an outline

An outline will help you organize your essay. It should include:

• An introduction paragraph that gives an overview of your essay
• Body paragraphs that break down the commonalities and differences between your subjects
• A conclusion paragraph that summarizes your essay

You can structure the body paragraphs of your compare-and-contrast essay in two different ways. Your structure options include:

• The alternating method. This method is also known as the point-by-point method. In this essay structure, you’ll alternate ideas about the subjects you’re comparing and contrasting. Use this outline for the alternating method:
  • Paragraph 1
    • Discuss point 1 about topic A
    • Discuss point 1 about topic B
    • Summarize the connection between topic A and topic B
  • Paragraph 2
    • Discuss point 2 about topic A
    • Discuss point 2 about topic B
    • Summarize the connection between topic A and topic B
• The block method. This method is also known as the subject-by-subject method. When you write using the block method, each topic has its own paragraph. Use this outline for the block method:
  • Paragraph 1: Discuss topic A
  • Paragraph 2: Discuss topic B

Write and proofread your essay

While writing your essay, clarity is key. Rely on the Venn diagram you generated to make sure you included each similarity and difference between each subject. Don’t forget to include a conclusion paragraph that effectively summarizes your essay, and pay attention to citations, as different style guides require different formats to cite your work.

Finally, proofread your essay before turning it in. Writing about two different subjects can be confusing, so make sure to include the essay’s prompt to ensure that it’s clear which topic or point you are talking about.

With a little brainstorming and outlining, you’ll find writing a compare-and-contrast essay is easy. No matter what your topic or format, you can master the art of essay writing with ease.