In the context of writing, comparison examines aspects that are alike, and contrast analyzes dissimilar parts. When we talk about compare & contrast essays, it simply explores two subjects through comparison, contrast, or either of them.
Generally, the process of creating a successful compare & contrast essay begins with a selection of multiple subjects that are related to each other. The goal of comparison or contrast is to highlight minor differences or surprising commonalities rather than to declare the evidence.
Example of Compare & Contrast Essay
For instance, if you are looking to compare and contrast two subjects, you will not choose tigers and lions, instead, you should be comparing and contrasting two categories of tigers or two kinds of lions to emphasize minor distinctions.
Here we take the example of the tigers within their specific category related to their weight. The weight of the Siberian tigers is approximately between 389-475 lbs. in males while the Bengal tigers’ weight is up to 397-569 lbs. in males. The primary objective of this type of essay is to improve the reader’s ability to comprehend a specific comparable category in any subject.
Selection of Topic & Thesis Statement
Before you begin to write, you need to choose whether you wish to examine dissimilar topics, contrast comparable topics, or compare and contrast topics first. Once you’ve settled on a subject, you should begin with an enticing first paragraph.
Moreover, your thesis statement must be stated after the introduction. In addition, your thesis statement must also specify the elements you are supposed to compare, contrast, or both. Also, you need to briefly tell the audience what can they learn from it as well.
Composition of a Compare & Contrast Essay
The compare and contrast essay begins with a thesis statement that specifically defines the two subjects to be examined in terms of comparing, contrasting, or both with a solid reason. You need to keep in mind that the purpose of comparing and contrasting is to give the audience relevant information.
You can structure as well as organize your compare and contrast essays through multiple methods. The first is to explain one topic after the next, as per the topics themselves. The other one is to explain each topic in relation to every point. The format you pick in this type of essay is determined by the nature of your subject, goal, and intended readers.
Main Body & Conclusion
The essay’s body might be arranged in two ways. The first one is to organize the body through subject or you can use specific arguments. Your format of the essay and its strategy will be determined by your readers and objectives, as is always the case. When you complete your analysis of the problem, you need to create a brief yet solid conclusion that highlights the key elements of the essay and strengthens your stated argument.