How to Write a Comparison & Contrast Essay

A comparison and contrast essay is a common essay form used throughout a typical education. Whether you are in third grade or reaching for a doctorate degree, knowing how to write a compare and contrast essay is important. The ultimate goal of your paper is to distinguish why the differences of your subject matter.

Instructions

1. Write an introduction paragraph. This paragraph serves to set up your essay, so provide a general outline about the subject at hand. The introduction paragraph should end with your thesis statement: a sentence that describes the goal of your essay.

2. Choose the topics you want to address. Most essay papers cover two to three topics, but, depending on the required length of your essay, this will vary.

3. Write one to two paragraphs on your first topic and an additional one to two paragraphs on your second topic (and third, fourth, etc.). These paragraphs should analyze each of your topics separately, so do not refer to a different topic in your individual paragraphs.

4. Analyze both topic one and two together in the following one to three paragraphs. Discuss how the two relate to each other, what makes them an integral part of the essay topic.

5. Form a conclusion. The conclusion serves to wrap up your essay and drive home your thesis. You can even repeat the thesis verbatim in your conclusion. Make sure you address how you have proven your thesis, as well.

Tips & Warnings

• There are different formats for comparison and contrast essays. This is just one example. Another option is to write the introduction, address similarities in topics one and two, address differences in topics one and two and then form a conclusion.

References

• BookRags.com
• ENotes.com