Compare and Contrast Essay

Compare and Contrast Essay: Everything You Need To Know

A compare and contrast essay is a popular type of academic essay that analyses the similarities and differences between two or more subjects, usually in the same category, like a compare and contrast essay between two cars, two celebrities, two movies, and so on.

Although compare and contrast essay writing is similar to other essay types, there are unique differences as well – and that’s the true essence of such tasks. Analysis of the differences and similarities allows readers better comprehend the compare and contrast essay ideas by referring to other subjects.

Compare and contrast essays are common in colleges and universities to develop students' comparative and analytical skills and improve their focus on the primary subject of comparisons for meaningful arguments. Read on for the broader picture of compare and contrast essay writing.

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Compare and Contrast – Understanding the Purpose

Compare and Contrast Essay Writing

Let’s understand the purpose of a compare and contrast essay with an example. Assume you are assigned a compare and contrast essay topic focusing on the benefits of solo traveling. However, you spend most of your time explaining how group traveling works for different people. The primary purpose of essay writers will be lost.

To make your target readers understand the advantages of solo traveling, you must invest time and effort to learn about alternative options like group traveling. You should discuss the topic in a way that the readers feel as if two different topics.

The key role of compare and contrast essay ideas is to explain the differences and similarities of topics that define or are related. Since such academic essay deal with more than one topic, it helps the graders to analyze a writer’s ability to grasp multiple subjects and present their analysis.

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Compare and Contrast Essay Writing – Developing the Thesis & Structure

When writing a compare and contrast essay, consider two vital aspects of the paper – your thesis and the structure. First, writing an essay's thesis help statement is no easy task. You need to be careful of the subjects you pick for comparison and chalk out the similarities and differences to draw connections. Here are two important questions you should ask yourself while writing a compare and contrast thesis statement:

  • What do you want to show in your compare and contrast essay?
  • What would your readers take away from your essay?

If you are stuck with the points and structure, make a Venn diagram for your compare and contrast essay. Venn diagrams are perfect for compare and contrast essay writing as they act as a visual tool to help you figure out the exclusive characteristics of your subject and those similar to other subjects. Once you have everything written down in the diagram, it will become easier to craft the perfect thesis for your compare and contrast essay. 

The next key aspect of compare and contrast essay writing is structure. 

Like any other writing, compare and contrast essays follow a distinctive structure suggested by the supervisors: an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

 

Introduction

 

Body

 

Conclusion

· Usually consists of one or two paragraphs explaining the thesis or what to expect ahead.

· Follows the standard essay introduction writing rules, but remember to mention the subjects

· Check some compare and contrast essay introduction examples for reference

· The largest section of the essay for listing out the similarities and differences

· Supposedly the trickiest part of compare and contrast essay writing

· Proper organization of the differences and similarities is mandatory

· Last but equally important section to wrap up your compare and contrast essay

· Summarize the main points from your essay and restate your thesis following the guidelines and best practices

· Refer to a conclusion for compare and contrast essay examples for inspiration

 

Whether writing the introduction or conclusion of your compare and contrast essay or the thesis, examples come in handy when you know how to tackle both subjects and switch back and forth. If that’s where you lag, the following section will ease things for you.

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Compare and Contrast Essay Structure – Vital Structuring Methods

Compare and Contrast Essay Structure

The trickiest bit of structuring a compare and contrast essay format is to know when to say what. How do you write engaging body paragraphs following the given compare and contrast structure-related guidelines? Understand that compare and contrast essay writing is mostly based on factual analysis. A comparative college essay outline uses three popular methods to organize the facts. 

Let’s dig deeper to understand the two widely used structuring methods for creating a compare and contrast essay outline

BLOCK STRUCTURE

All details on the first subject are presented with important characteristics and information in the block structure. A similar approach is taken for all the paragraphs with other subjects. So the structure of the block method will look like this:

Introduction

  • Topic introduction
  • Theme
  • Thesis covering all areas

Thesis example: Private vehicles are highly convenient, but owning a vehicle depends on an individual’s convenience, area of living, and finances.

Body Paragraph 1

  • Topic sentence: Various factors come into play when an individual considers purchasing a private vehicle.
  • Aspect 1 – Convenience
  • Argument – Private vehicles are comfortable and spacious
  • Argument – Private vehicles reduce travelling struggles
  • Aspect 2 – Area of Living
  • Argument – Maintaining private vehicles in small towns can be expensive due to the unavailability of parts
  • Argument – Private vehicles are great for city life as the roads are well maintained, and all parts are easily available
  • Aspect 3 – Finances
  • Argument – You can buy private vehicles such as motorcycles at a reasonable price
  • Argument – Easier to travel whenever needed

Body Paragraph 2

  • Topic sentence: Vehicles like cars can be expensive but make travelling convenient
  • Aspect 1 – Convenience
  • Argument – Cars are expensive and are a big investment
  • Argument – Becoming a skilled and confident rider or driver takes time.
  • Aspect 2 – Area of Living
  • Argument: Urban places are safe and convenient to travel in a private vehicle
  • Argument: Private vehicles are comfortable for traveling outstation
  • Aspect 3 – Finances
  • Argument: Expensive to maintain
  • Argument: High consumption of resources

Body Paragraph 3

The last paragraph allows you to draw comparisons and explain whether private vehicles are necessary. Make sure to provide sufficient examples, facts, and real-life applications. You can also increase the number of paragraphs if you have more important points to discuss. Make sure you use proper transitional words and phrases to improve the quality of your compare and contrast essay.

ALTERNATING STRUCTURE

The alternating structure, also known as the point-by-point structuring method, lists every similarity and difference at the same time, making important points of both subjects. For instance, you can talk about a subject's specific factor and note the subject's similarities or differences to the other. Let’s break down a sample compare and contrast essay outline template for easier understanding.

  • Introduction
  • Topic introduction
  • Theme
  • Thesis covering all areas

Thesis example: Private vehicles are highly convenient, but owning a vehicle depends on an individual’s convenience, area of living, and finances.

Body Paragraph 1 – Convenience

  • Topic 1 – Benefits
  • Argument – Private vehicles are comfortable and spacious
  • Argument – Private vehicles reduce travelling struggles
  • Topic 2 – Contrast
  • Argument – Cars are expensive and are a big investment
  • Argument – Becoming a skilled and confident rider or driver takes time.

Body Paragraph 2 – Area of living

  • Topic 1 – Benefits
  • Argument: Urban places are safe and convenient to travel in a private vehicle
  • Argument: Private vehicles are comfortable for traveling outstation
  • Topic 2 – Contrast
  • Argument – Maintaining private vehicles in small towns can be expensive due to the unavailability of parts
  • Argument – Private vehicles are great for city life as the roads are well maintained, and all parts are easily available

Body Paragraph 3 - Finances

  • Topic 1 – Benefits
  • Argument – You can buy private vehicles such as motorcycles at a reasonable price
  • Argument – Easier to travel whenever needed
  • Topic 2 – Contrast
  • Argument: Expensive to maintain
  • Argument: High consumption of resources

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Conclusion

As for the conclusion paragraph for a compare and contrast essay, summarize everything you have written in your personal essays. Then, state the value of the subject and recommend suggestions, if required. Keep your compare and contrast essay template close to developing your essay according to the listed points. You can also refer to college-level compare and contrast essay examples or free compare and contrast essay conclusion examples to develop your idea. 

Both formats have their benefits and challenges. A block method is a clear option for a budding compare and contrast essay writer where s/he can point out the differences and similarities and leave it to the readers to draw a comparison. On the contrary, the alternating structure requires a compare and contrast essay writer to analyze the points and explain the differences and similarities in detail for readers’ easy understanding.

Irrespective of the structuring method, your essay should be backed by sufficient evidence from credible sources. Make optimum use of your books, articles, magazines, scholarly papers, and personal experiences to boost the credibility of your essay.

Let’s say your similarities and differences essay topic is online learning vs traditional learning. You can include your personal experiences in the essay by discussing your life as an online student and how it differs from your traditional classes to make your work more credible. Don’t hesitate to check some compare and contrast thesis statement examples, essay samples and compare and contrast essay conclusion examples on educational websites to get a clear understanding of the context. 

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How To Write A Compare And Contrast Essay– 5 Key Rules

How To Write A Compare And Contrast Essay
  • Brainstorm interesting compare and contrast essay ideas and note the similarities and challenges using a Venn diagram to avoid confusion.
  • Preparelists while brainstorming and figure out the perfect structuring method to develop your contrast and comparison paper and communicate your perspective.
  • Drafta rough copy of your compare and contrast essay by referring to the points you jotted down during brainstorming.
  • Revise the first draft and check if your compare and contrast essay, examples, outline, and format is as per the college guidelines. Closely check if any area requires revision or to be rewritten.
  • Proofread the entire document and check if there're any writing errors. Check for spelling and grammatical errors and correct them to reduce mark deductions and turn in a flawless  write my essay.

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Tips To Bag A+ In Compare-And-Contrast Essays

By now, you have learnt the nitty-gritty of crafting a quality compare and contrast essay. Let’s check a few writing tips to improve as a compare and contrast essay writer and ensure the best quality solution.

· Choose relevant compare and contrast essay topics with sufficient common information and ensure there's a purpose for drawing comparisons.

· Maintain clarity throughout the paper. As such essays contain more than one subject, evaluate your work from the beginning to ensure clarity for readers.

· Use powerful transitional words, such as compared to, just as, in addition, both, similarly, however, conversely, on the contrary, and so on, to help your readers connect the dots.

· Don’t hesitate to share information on the topic by assuming your readers are aware of it.

· Proofread every minute detail, and check grammar and punctuation to ensure zero deductions.

· Get someone to proofread your essay and help you identify missed errors.

 

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Finding the Right Compare and Contrast Essay Ideas

Random topics are not ideal for your compare and contrast essay. The subjects should not be completely different as it will limit the comparison scope. Here are some more hacks to help you find the perfect examples of compare and contrast essay topics:

  • Find types and pick suitable subjects with fun facts to engage your readers. You can work on a funny compare and contrast essay topic like "Do chickens belong to the dinosaurs’ family.” Since ample funny persuasive speech topics are available, you can develop an engaging paper using subtle humour, facts and instances.
  • Stick to your field of interest and choose a topic relevant to your subject of specialization unless any other requirements are given.
  • Carefully study the arguments and include relevant details for every opposing idea if you wish to get higher grades.
  • Opt for topics where you can create good introductions and conclusions. The introduction will help your readers to decide whether to read or not, whereas the conclusion will summarize the key points and help readers to find the necessary answers.
  • Avoid topics where you won’t be able to determine the outcome of the argument. Biases, in conclusion, are not recommended as they may affect your grades. Instead, always find the scope to discuss every argument equally and leave it to your readers to decide.

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Compare and Contrast Essay Writing – Short Examples

Compare and Contrast Essay Sample Example 1:

Hardcover Vs Kindle: Which Is A Better Reading Tool?

 Hardcover Vs Kindle

 

Compare and Contrast Essay Sample Example 2:

iPhone vs Android: Which is the Best?
 

iPhone vs Android

 

Compare and Contrast Essay Sample Example 3:

Cord Cutting Vs Streaming Services

Cord Cutting Vs Streaming

 

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65+ Compelling Compare and Contrast Essay Ideas You Must Bookmark

Are you still struggling to find the right topic sources? Need sample compare and contrast essay ideas for your urgent paper? No worries! We have got you covered with the best in class topics. Refer to this list of topics for key words for compare and contrast to conduct your research paper help and develop a perfect compare and contrast essay layout. 

Psychology Compare And Contrast Essay Topics

  1. Self-evaluation methods of high school goers vs teenagers
  2. The mental health of children with normal childhoods vs children with troubled childhoods
  3. Eastern mental health diagnostic methods vs western diagnostics
  4. Differences in behaviour between a person with Down Syndrome and autism
  5. Alcoholism in men vs women – compare and contrast
  6. Suicide vs homicide – analyze the differences and similarities
  7. Developmental psychology and cognitive psychology – compare and contrast the key areas

Movie Compare And Contrast Essay Topics

  1. Marvel movies vs DC movies
  2. Your favourite book vs its movie adaptation
  3. Folklore vs movies – a comparative study of the vampires
  4. Comparison of films – Lost in Translation and Roman Holiday
  5. “The Trust, or The Battles of Money vs “A Girl and Her Trust”
  6. A comparative study of two popular historical romances – "Titanic" and "An Affair to Remember."
  7. Emotions in movies vs real life

Intriguing Ideas For Compare And Contrast Essay

  1. Compare and contrast the similarities between smoking and vaping
  2. Compare the challenges between Bipolar I and Bipolar II disorder
  3. Compare and contrast two types of abnormal behaviour
  4. Undiscovered species on Earth vs potential life on Mars – how does the future look?
  5. Earthquakes vs Tornadoes in the US
  6. Earth’s moon vs Mars’ moons – Compare the differences
  7. Motherhood vs parenthood

College Level Compare And Contrast Essay Topics

  1. Romantic poems - a compare and contrast essay
  2. Different teaching methods – a compare and contrast essay
  3. Compare and contrast essay on rich vs poor
  4. Friends vs family- a compare and contrast essay
  5. Books vs movies - a compare and contrast essay
  6. Animal Farm - a compare and contrast essay
  7. Virtual vs real classrooms- a compare and contrast essay
  8. Facebook vs Twitter- a compare and contrast essay

Art History Compare And Contrast Essay Ideas And Examples

  1. Technology and its impact on traditional music instruments and skills
  2. The impact of textile machinery on the changes in the fashion and clothing industry
  3. The role of wars and battles in ancient literature
  4. How do fairs help in tracing the roots of ancient history?
  5. Development in languages and their impact on the local community development
  6. The Victorian era arts vs the Renaissance period art
  7. Changes in the art forms and literature post World war

IELTS Compare And Contrast Essay Ideas

  1. The increase in crime rate due to the technology advancement – Do you agree or disagree (support your answer with reasons)
  2. Governments should spend money on the welfare of the people instead of investing in space. Agree or disagree?
  3. Some parents encourage their wards to participate in group activities, while others suggest that children should learn to become independent. Discuss both slants and give your stand.
  4. Why are more people travelling abroad these days for studies? What has changed over the decade, and how has it boosted the economy?
  5. Children should be given space and time to manage their emotions – To what extent do you agree or disagree?
  6. Travelling by train vs travelling by air
  7. Cooking your meals vs eating out – a comparative study
  8. Some graduates choose to start their careers at an MNC, while others prefer SMEs. Compare and contrast their choices and state your opinion on the same

Interesting Topics For Comparison Essays

  1. Chemical drugs vs Ayurvedic medication
  2. Getting a part-time job or vacationing with friends during the summers
  3. Canadian health care vs American health care – compare and contrast the benefits and challenges
  4. Fiction vs non-fiction – compare and contrast
  5. Christianity vs Islam – compare and contrast their political views
  6. Indian education system vs American education system
  7. Ronaldo vs Messi – a comparative study on the ultimate GOAT

Compare And Contrast Poetry Essay Ideas

  1. Compare Isaac Rosenberg's 'Louse Hunting' with Wilfred Owen's 'Futility' in reference to feelings. How are the two poets different in their approach to dealing with feelings?
  2. Compareany two war poems and explore the real meaning of war as portrayed by each poet.
  3. Compare four cultural poems and each poet’s views of their culture
  4. Explore attitudes to conflict in the poem 'Futility' by Wilfred Owenvs Carl Sandburg's 'Grass' – compare the attitudes and conflict in both the poems

College Compare And Contrast Essay Topics

  1. American English vs British English
  2. Formal writing style vs informal writing style
  3. Tree plantation vs water conservation
  4. Nuclear power plants vs coal-fired power plants
  5. Compare the differences in etiquette – video interview vs in-person interview.
  6. Higher education abroad vs high paying job in the native country
  7. International movies with subtitles vs movies in your language

IB English Compare And Contrast Essay Example

  1. Being a prisoner to our emotions, discuss the meaning of imprisonment and its impact on the audience
  2. The significance of elements used in Shakespeare’s The Winter’s Tale
  3. Compare and contrast the elements used to demonstrate danger in ‘Master Harold'…and the Boysby Athol Fugard and Shakespeare’s The Winter’s Tale
  4. The supernatural function settings in Shakespeare’s and Fugard’s works
  5. Use/violation of Aristotle’s unities in 'Master Harold'…and the Boysby Athol Fugard and The Winter’s Tale by William Shakespeare

Free Compare And Contrast Essay Ideas And Examples

  1. Analog watches vs smartwatches
  2. Opera vs pop music ( or any other music genre)
  3. Online shopping vs shopping in person
  4. A comparative study of the three versions of the movie The Grinch
  5. Martin Luther King Jr. vs Malcom X – a comparative study of two great leaders
  6. Walmart vs Whole Foods – Compare and contrast two grocery stores
  7. Minimalism vs Maximalism – a compare and contrast essay

Easy Compare And Contrast Essay Ideas

    1. MacBook vs Windows laptop
    2. MAC vs Bobby Brown
    3. Apple vs pears
    4. Horror books vs horror movies
    5. Writing vs typing
    6. IoT vs Machine learning
    7. Hospital care vs care at home
    8. Netflix vs Hulu
    9. 3D vs 4D movies
    10. Stipend vs salary
    11. Men vs women – Behavioural differences

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Key Takeaways

 

® A compare and contrast essay analyzes two subjects by highlighting similarities, differences, or both.

® The main purpose of compare and contrast writing is to talk about the differences or unexpected similarities between two or more subjects.

® The thesis of a compare and contrast essay should state the subjects to be analyzed for similarities or differences, or both, and the outcome of the essay.

® Two primary organizing strategies are used for compare and contrast essay writing:

· Subject by the subject (Block method)

· Point by point (Alternating method)

® The use of accurate transitional phrases of comparison/ contrast is mandatory to help readers follow the subjects being analyzed.

 

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Other Useful Examples For Students:

1. What Makes Beowulf An Epic Hero

Beowulf is a legendary tale of a hero who embodies the qualities of an epic hero. This ancient Anglo-Saxon poem is a reflection of the heroic deeds, values, and traditions of the society in which it was written. The epic poem is an outstanding work of literature that has stood the test of time and continues to inspire readers of all ages. In this essay, we will explore the character of Beowulf as an epic hero and examine the qualities that make him a true hero. Read More..

2. Who Is To Blame For The Deaths Of Romeo And Juliet

The tragic love story of Romeo and Juliet is one of the most celebrated works of literature in history. It has been adapted into plays, movies, and books, and has been studied by students for generations. Read More..

3. Mice And Men By John Steinbeck Crooks Character Analysis

Of Mice and Men is a novella by John Steinbeck published in 1937. It is a story that explores the lives of migrant workers in California during the Great Depression. One of the key characters in the story is Crooks, a black stable buck who is isolated from the other men because of his race. This essay will analyze the character of Crooks in the novel by exploring his background, personality, and relationships with other characters. Read More..

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.1. What Is A Compare And Contrast Essay?

A compare and contrast essay is a popular type of academic writing which helps to point out the similarities and differences between two or more ideas, objects, or people. It's up to the writer to decide whether to focus on comparing, contrasting or both in case there are no specific instructions from the subject instructors.

Q.2. How To Write A Compare And Contrast Essay?

Here’s an easy approach to writing such essays:

  • Brainstorm topics with a Venn diagram to visualize the topic
  • After mapping out the differences and similarities between the chosen topics, write a strong thesis statement based on your understanding of the topic.
  • Create an outline following the standard essay format – introduction, body, and conclusion and note the points you want to write in each section.
  • Start your introductory paragraph with a hook, introduce the topic, and end with a thesis statement.
  • Begin each body paragraph with a topic sentence and continue the discussions and comparisons through several paragraphs using relevant transitional words.
  • Conclude your essay by stating how your subjects are different or alike. Share your final insights without introducing any new information, and proofread the entire paper before submission.

Q.3. How To Start A Compare And Contrast Essay?

Your compare and contrast essay introduction will set the tone for your entire paper. Hence, to make sure your paper stands out, focus on creating a strong introduction. Start with a hook – use a bold statement or rhetorical question. Then, give a brief back story of the points or subjects your paper will examine. Finally, write a thesis statement to end your introductory paragraph.

Q.4. Which Is The Most Effective Topic For A Compare-And-Contrast Essay?

Here are some interesting ideas for your next compare and contrast essay:

  • Working students vs unemployed students – who handle life better?
  • Essay writing vs report writing – which is more effective?
  • Socialism vs communism – what’s your stand?
  • Remote work vs office work culture – which is more productive?
  • Pursuing an MBA vs starting a full-time job– which is better for a career?

Q.5. How To Structure A Compare And Contrast Essay?

A compare and contrast essay follows a simple format: an introductory paragraph, the body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Essentially, you can follow three structuring options – the block method, the alternating method, and similarities and differences.

  • In the block or the subject-by-subject method, you discuss one topic in full and then discuss the next in the following section.
  • If you follow the alternating or the point-by-point method, you pick a subject's stand on a particular aspect, then another person's take on a similar aspect, and move to a new one.
  • Finally, in case of similarities and differences, discuss the similarities between the subjects and list the differences, or vice versa.

Q.6. What Does A Compare And Contrast Essay Do?

A good compare and contrast essay examines a topic from multiple viewpoints and helps students understand the analytical writing process. It helps to point out the differences, similarities, or both between two or more things or ideas. Such essays require critical thinking, and the writers must describe the relationship between the subjects using valid information.

Q.7. How To Conclude A Compare And Contrast Essay?

Conclude your compare and contrast essay by recalling the main and distinctive arguments from the body paragraphs. You should restate the thesis to explain your stand for the topic or the purpose of comparison. You can be persuasive in the last line of the paragraph to leave your readers thinking of your opinion. 

Q.8. How To Write A Thesis For A Compare And Contrast Essay?

A thesis for a compare and contrast essay controls what ideas you put into your essay. Hence, name the two or subjects you will compare and contrast, and write an asserting statement on the subject’s similarities and differences. Here’s an example: While permissive and authoritative parenting has their differences, both share a key similarity: both parenting styles encourage children to become decisive and make their own decisions.  

Q.9. What Is The Purpose Of A Compare And Contrast Essay?

A compare and contrast essay evaluates two subjects by comparing or contrasting them or both. The main purpose of a compare and contrast essay is to highlight the differences or unknown similarities between two subjects or people.

Q.10. How To Write A Compare And Contrast Analysis Essay?

A compare and contrast essay follows a typical essay writing process which involves the typical writing processes, such as brainstorming topics, choosing the structuring methods, and working on the rough draft. Generally, the introduction is one or two paragraphs where you explain your thesis and state what the readers can expect throughout the paper. The body paragraphs are the largest sections of your essay, where you elaborate on the similarities and differences between the subjects. Finally, the conclusion summarises the important points and restates the thesis. Once completed, revision and proofreading are mandatory to ensure accuracy.

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