One of the most common academic essays is the Comparison/Contrast, for which you are given two subjects and are asked to examine how they are similar to and/or different from one another. The topics of such an essay can vary from comparing and contrasting two university courses to two characters in different novels. T Before you write, consider the following:
  1. Purpose: To examine the similarities and/or differences between two subjects in a point-by-point comparison. The ultimate purpose of a comparison/contrast essay will vary from one assignment to another, but often times the goal is to show which of the two subjects is superior, more important, more effective, or possibly even more damaging.
  2. Audience: An academic audience of critical readers
  3. Goals:
    • to provide an interesting comparison by avoiding obvious similarities or differences
    • to display critical thinking
There are different styles of Comparison/Contrast Essays; however, in EAP 135, you will be writing a Point-by-Point essay. This means that your essay will focus on two or three points of comparison, depending on the assignment, with each point being the topic of an individual body paragraph.

Comparison/Contrast Essay Structure

Introduction

  • Hook
    • Begin your introductory paragraph with an engaging sentence to get the reader’s attention and introduce BOTH of your topics.
  • Background
    • Present any general information about your topics that the reader would need in order to understand your subject and your comparison.
  • Thesis Statement
    • The final sentence of the introductory paragraph contains the main idea of your essay. It should focus your comparison and present the three points to be discussed in the body of the essay.

Body

  • Paragraph One
    • Focuses on the similarities and/or differences based on your first point of comparison.The paragraph should contain a clear topic sentence and specific details.
  • Paragraph Two
    • Focuses on your second point of comparison
    • The paragraph should contain a clear topic sentence and specific details.
  • Paragraph Three
    • Focuses on your third point of comparison
    • The paragraph should contain a clear topic sentence and specific details.

Conclusion

  • Restate the thesis and summarize the three points of the essay.
  • End with a strong statement that will leave an impression on the reader, possibly making an overall comparison between the two subjects. Is one superior to the other? Are they different yet equal?
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