Writing Help > A+ Papers > COMPARE & CONTRAST ESSAY
A compare and contrast essay shows the differences and similarities between two people, places or things.
To write a compare and contrast essay, follow the steps below:
Find two things to compare and contrast. You can compare and contrast two animals, two jobs, two characters or two stories.
Take notes on your topics. Ask yourself: What is the same about both things? What is different? Use an idea organizer to take notes.
Write a title. Be sure your title lets the reader know the two things that you will be comparing and contrasting.
Write an introduction. Briefly tell your reader about the two things you will be comparing and contrasting.
Write a paragraph in which you discuss how your topics are different. Use words and phrases that show contrast, such as however, but, on the other hand or on the contrary.
Write a paragraph in which you discuss how your topics are similar.
Write a conclusion. Be careful not to repeat ideas that you have already discussed in your essay. Ask yourself: What do I want my reader to remember? What can my reader learn from the ideas discussed in the essay?
Once you have finished your paper, be sure to review your writing.
