This document provides an overview of how to write a comparison and contrast essay. It defines a comparison and contrast essay as discussing the similarities, differences, or both between two or more subjects. It notes that a basis for comparison is important, and discusses selecting points for discussion and writing a thesis statement. Finally, it outlines two patterns for organizing a compare and contrast essay: subject-by-subject or point-by-point.

1. Comparison and Contrast
From Patterns Ch 11

2. Definition
A comparison and contrast essay discusses the
similarity, difference, or both between two or more
subjects.
A comparison focuses on what the subjects have in
common.
A contrast focuses on how the subjects are different
from each other.

3. Basis for Comparison
It is important to make sure that you establish a basis for
comparison when selecting subjects for your essay.
A basis for comparison is when the subjects you have
chosen have enough in common to allow for a meaningful
comparison.
For example, apples and oranges have a basis for comparison
in that they share many similar qualities.
On the other hand, a tree and a supernova do not have a basis
for comparison and it would be absurd to compare them.

4. Points for Discussion
After selecting your subjects, you then need to decide
your points for discussion.
The points for discussion are the areas your will focus
on in your comparison and contrast. Based on your
emphasis, your points may the similarities,
differences, or both between the subjects.
For example, when comparing/contrasting apples and
oranges, I may focus on the texture, taste, and color as
my points of discussion.

5. Writing A Thesis Statement
A thesis statement for a compare and contrast essay
should have the following qualities:
It should identify the subjects of your essay.
It should give the point you will making by comparing
and contrasting.
It should make it clear if you are focusing on the
similarities, differences, or both.
It should list the points for comparison you are using.

6. Organizing a Compare and Contrast
Essay
When organizing a compare and contrast essay you
should follow one of the following patterns:
A subject-by-subject pattern organizes your essay by
your subjects. You would discuss the same points for
each subject, but you talk about each subject separately.
A point-by-point pattern organizes your essay by each
point for discussion you are making. You would talk
about both subjects under each point.