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 Structure of a Compare/Contrast Essay The more divergent the two subjects initially seem, the more interesting a comparison essay will be. Rather, you might try to compare how apples and oranges are quite similar. For a comparison essay, you likely would not choose two apples or two oranges because they share so many of the same properties already. Similarly, to focus on comparison, choose two subjects that seem at first to be unrelated. Drawing distinctions between elements in a similar category will increase the audience’s understanding of that category, which is the purpose of the compare-and-contrast essay.

For example, Red Delicious apples are sweet, while Granny Smiths are tart and acidic. For example, if you wanted to focus on contrasting two subjects you would not pick apples and oranges rather, you might choose to compare and contrast two types of oranges or two types of apples to highlight subtle differences. The purpose of conducting the comparison or contrast is not to state the obvious but rather to illuminate subtle differences or unexpected similarities. The key to a good compare-and-contrast essay is to choose two or more subjects that connect in a meaningful way. A compare-and-contrast essay, then, analyzes two subjects by comparing them, contrasting them, or both. The Purpose of Compare/Contrast in WritingĬomparison in writing discusses elements that are similar, while contrast in writing discusses elements that are different. This section will help you determine the purpose and structure of comparison/contrast in writing.

Key words for compare and contrast