A Comparison and Contrast Essay involves comparing and contrasting two subjects. In other words, it shows how two things are similar and how they are different. Before writing such an essay, make separate lists of the similarities and the differences. Discuss the less significant first, followed by the more significant.
The following points should be kept in mind when writing a comparison and contrast essay:
- Introduce the two subjects in the introduction, defining and describing them if necessary. Make the introduction a preview of what is to follow.
- Each body paragraph should address a separate point.
- Discuss both of your subjects together for each point of comparison and contrast. Maintain consistency by discussing the same subject first for each point.
- Make the transition from one paragraph to the next smooth to avoid confusion.
- Don’t just state the similarities and differences. Also say what causes these similarities/differences, what effect they have on the subjects, and also what they say or show about the subjects.
- The conclusion summarizes all that has been said earlier. It includes the final correlations about the two subjects and a restatement of the thesis.
A comparison and contrast essay is effective if it is balanced, and equally and thoroughly covers both the subjects without being partial to one.
Other essay types:
- Narrative Essay
- Explanatory/Expository Essay
- Cause and Effect Essay
- Descriptive Essay
- Argumentative/Persuasive Essay
- Definition Essay
- Process Essay
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