Key Concept Compare & Contrast Essay Exam

PROFESSOR B. SASAKI
TRINITY WESTERN UNIVERSITY
1
Compare & Contrast Essay
A compare and contrast essay assignment is an essay evaluating the similarities and differences
between two or more subjects. These subjects will often be in the same category, but different.
You might compare and contrast two different kinds of pets, or two novels from the same
historical time period, two articles, or characters in a film.
Step 1: Choose a Subject or Focus on a Subject Assigned
Step 2: Brainstorm Similarities and Differences
Make two lists: one list of similarities, and another of differences. If you are a visual person, a
Venn diagram can facilitate this process. Simply create two overlapping circles, one for each of
the topics that you are comparing. Traits that differ are noted separately, within those that they
share are written in the overlapping space. This is a helpful visual aid, because it organizes
similarities and differences clearly. All you have to do is glance at your Venn diagram to get a
sense of the things that you could write about. If you prefer to focus on one subject at a time,
jot your lists down on a blank sheet of paper and flip it over to the other side for the other
subject. Remember to keep characteristics of the different subjects somewhat parallel. This will
make it easier to structure a good argument.
Image retrieved from https://online.visual-paradigm.com/diagrams/templates/venn-diagram/whales-and-fish/
PROFESSOR B. SASAKI
TRINITY WESTERN UNIVERSITY
2
Step 3: Narrow Down Your Focus
A good compare-and-contrast essay goes beyond a simple listing of similarities and differences
to make a meaningful statement about a larger topic. When you look at the lists you’ve made,
what strikes you as significant? What do these similarities and differences say about the topic?
What key words jump out at you? This will help you narrow down your focus and find your
main argument or topic.
Step 4: Decide on the Organizational Structure
There are several possibilities for structuring a compare-and-contrast essay.
• You could write about one subject in detail, and then switch to the other. This can be
done in alternating paragraphs or sub-level headings.
• Alternatively, you can go point by point throughout the essay and compare point 1 –
Subject A & Subject B, point 2 – Subject A, Subject B, and so on.
Step 5: Write an Outline
Craft an outline that fits the structure you have chosen. Traditionally, an essay consists of an
introductory paragraph, body paragraphs and a conclusion. Consider including an even-number
body paragraphs to give balance to your two subjects or if you are comparing three or more
subjects, plan your number of paragraphs accordingly.
Step 6: Fill in Supporting Evidence
As you begin to write your essay, back up your assertions with evidence from research, reading,
or personal experience. If you are comparing and contrasting cats and dogs, use personal
anecdotes about friends and their pets to bolster your arguments. (“My roommate’s dog
always greets him when he comes home each day, but my cat never does.”). With any
information that you include, be sure to explain why it matters in the context of your larger
argument.
PROFESSOR B. SASAKI
TRINITY WESTERN UNIVERSITY
3
Step 7: Strengthen Your Essay with Strong Transitional Words
Transitional words give your essay a nice flow from one statement to the next. When
comparing, use words like “both,” “likewise” and “similarly.” Words such as “nonetheless,” “on
the other hand,” and “whereas” are ideal for forming a contrast.
Transition Words Website https://msu.edu/~jdowell/135/transw.html
Step 8: Proofread and Revise Carefully before Submitting
Once you have finished, read your essay several times to check spelling, grammar, and
punctuation. Make use of spell check and grammar check tools in your word processing
program. Ensure you have a title page, a reference page and are adhering to APA 6th Edition
Guidelines for formatting, grammar, spacing, headings and font.