What are Compare and Contrast Essays?

Definition & Introduction

“A compare and contrast essay is a piece of writing that shows likeness and differences among characters, places, concepts, ideas, or other elements by analyzing them critically to find out and highlight the  similarities and dissimilarities.”

Writing a Compare and Contrast Essay

Compare and contrast essays may seem a comparatively easy task as one automatically thinks of comparing and contrasting two simple things as they want. Yes, this holds true to an extent but the most important part of a compare and contrast essay is the structural flow and format which you as a writer are supposed to follow.

Thesis of a Compare and Contrast Essay

The thesis of your compare and contrast essay is very important as it assists you to create a focused argument and give your readers a road map so they do not get lost in the ocean of points which you are about to make.

Structure of a Compare and Contrast Essay

There are two main types of structures, which an author can follow, in order to write a compare and contrast essay. You can present your arguments in a tandem or an alternating pattern.

• Tandem means to spate your positives and negatives into two separate sections. Once you are done with this, you will discuss the pros in the body part of the essay following with the cons at the end.
• If you opt for writing through the alternating pattern, you will continually address the two characters back and forth, as you compose the body part of your compare and contrast essay.