Comparison and Contrast By Olivia Burger, Haleigh Wood, Kailen De Saussure, and Alex Komendantov

The Basics A comparison and contrast essay consists of comparing and contrasting a subject. Comparison is how two things are similar and contrast shows how those things are different. Comparison and contrast are always used in conjunction with each other when included in an essay. There are also two types of comparison and contrast essays: Block Format and Point by Point.

Block Format Block format is better for similarities and shorter essays. Introduction: Name the two subjects that you are comparing. Build an idea and produce a thesis that supports your idea. Make a specific claim that can be argued against. Body Paragraphs: Avoid long paragraphs. First, discuss the features that one subject has (this should be your topic sentence). Transition - Second, discuss the same features that the other subject has. Transition - Third, discuss how the two subjects are similar or different.

Block Format cont. Counterargument (and rebuttal): Conclusion: Show a viewpoint that challenges your own thesis. Disprove that viewpoint. Explain its validity, but then explain how it is less of an option or consideration than your own thesis. Conclusion: Revisit your thesis, and show your strongest points made throughout the essay.

Point by Point Point by point format is better for differences and longer essays comparing/contrasting different novels, news articles, etc. Introduction: Name the two subjects that you are comparing. Build an idea and produce a thesis that supports your idea. Make a specific claim that can be argued against. Body Paragraphs: Discuss the first point that you have about the subject. Transition into discussing your second point about the subject. Transition into discussing your third point about the subject. Use quotes or paraphrasing to prove these different points!

Point by Point cont. Counterargument (and rebuttal): Conclusion: Show a viewpoint that challenges your thesis. Disprove said viewpoint. Explain its validity, but explain why your thesis is a better consideration than the other viewpoint. Conclusion: Revisit your own thesis, and explain its strongest points that were mentioned throughout the essay.

Example Essay The essay “Differences Between Good and Bad Bosses” appears to be written in block format. In the introduction the author introduces the two subjects, good bosses and bad bosses, that will be discussed. The author also states that his purpose for writing this essay is to determine the differences between good and bad bosses. The body paragraphs discuss the qualities of each subject. The topic sentence introduces what the qualities are going to be. The author validates his thesis and disproves having a bad boss. In the conclusion the thesis and strongest points of the essay are revisited.