A compare and contrast essay looks at two or more things and shows how they're similar and different.
What makes this essay type distinct
You identify similarities between the things
You identify differences between the things
You organize your essay clearly (either point-by-point or subject-by-subject)
You help your reader understand both things better
Main goal
Help your reader see the connections and differences between the things you're comparing.
Common structure for a compare & contrast essay
Introduction
Hook
Background
Subject A Introduction
Subject B Introduction
Basis for Comparison
Body Paragraph
Topic Sentence
Similarity 1
Difference 1
Similarity 2
Difference 2
Evidence
Analysis
Connection
Conclusion
Synthesis
Summarize Key Points
Final Comparison
Final Thought
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