How to Write Compare and Contrast Essays

Writing good compare and contrast essays is not hard work. You just have to know the steps and what to include.

Learn the bare bones of good compare and contrast essays. Get that jump start you need to ace all those compare and contrast essays that lie ahead.

Things You'll Need

• Graphic Organizer (Venn)
• Outline
• Pencil
• Paper
• Computer (Optional)

Instructions

1. 

   Find a topic to write about. Start all compare and contrast essays like any other paper you have to write by finding a topic.

   What two items, objects or ideas are you going to compare and contrast in your essays? Once you have the topic, it's time to move on.

2. 

   Make a graphic organizer. All compare and contrast essays need a graphic organizer. In this case, a Venn diagram is the one, because it visually shows you how items are similar and different.

   If you do not know how to use one, see the resources at the bottom for "How to Make a Venn Diagram." Once you draw out the circles, fill in your information.

3. Make an outline. All compare and contrast essays, just like other papers you write, need an outline. This includes:

   Paragraph 1: The Introduction - Introduce your topic and state your thesis. Are the comparing OR contrasting in essays? Choose one and stick with it. Use the Venn Diagram you created earlier to help.

   Paragraph 2: The First Item You Are Writing About. Write a topic sentence and add details (at least 3.)

   Paragraph 3 of compare and contrast essays is about the second item you're focusing on. Again, write a topic sentence and add at least 3 details.

   Now, Paragraph 4 is what separates compare and contrast essays from the rest. Decide right here if you are going to compare or contrast, because you don't need to do both. Whichever you choose, do it in this paragraph. Include 3 supporting details.

   Paragraph 5: Conclusion. Go back and state what you've already said, wrapping things up.

4. 

   Use the outline. Write each section of the paper, until finished. Go back and edit, checking for spelling, correct grammar, punctuation, and flow.

   Compare and contrast essays are just like any other paper and should flow from one paragraph to the next, making sense as you read it. Read and reread.

5. Type compare and contrast essays, if you so choose. Polish things up and print.

Resources

• How to Make a Venn Diagram