how to write an introduction in a compare and contrast essay

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How to Start a Compare and Contrast Essay

Last Updated: January 23, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Stephanie Wong Ken, MFA . Stephanie Wong Ken is a writer based in Canada. Stephanie's writing has appeared in Joyland, Catapult, Pithead Chapel, Cosmonaut's Avenue, and other publications. She holds an MFA in Fiction and Creative Writing from Portland State University. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 443,288 times.

Compare and contrast essays are often assigned to students because they promote critical thinking, analytical reasoning and organized writing. A compare and contrast essay should look at a subject in a new way, with fresh insight, using the similarities and the differences between two topics or two perspectives on one topic.

Sample Outline

Brainstorming Your Topic

• If your instructor has already given you your topic, you may be contrasting two things that could go into the same category, but are different from each other. For example, cats and dogs are both animals, but they are different from each other in many ways. The pro-life view on abortion, and the pro-choice view on abortion could both fit under the category of a human rights issue, but they are two very distinct views or positions.

• Try to write as many similarities and differences you can think of. For example: cats and dogs are both domesticated animals. But cats have different temperaments than dogs, and cats are known to be indoor pets, while dogs tend to need to be walked and played with outside on a constant basis.
• Think about at least one or two meaningful differences and similarities between the two subjects. For example, a compare and contrast between abortion rights could lead to meaningful notes like: The pro-life stance views fetuses are full formed humans and are often based in religious beliefs, while the pro-choice stance views fetuses as undeveloped eggs and are often based in scientific beliefs.
• To focus your list, choose categories (or possible supporting points for your paper) to classify the similarities and differences between the two subjects. For example, for the abortion rights topic, you may choose categories like: legal details, women's rights, scientific stance, and religious beliefs. You can then separate each item on the list into these categories.

• Once you are done listing 10-15 differences and 5-7 similarities, circle the most important items in each list. Then, match at least three opposites from one circle to the other circle.
• Review the list and look for three different categories that describe these traits. For example, for the abortion rights topic, you may have “scientific studies of the fetus” on the pro-choice side, and “belief in life of the fetus” on the pro-life side. One possible category could then be the debate of the life of a fetus.

• If you're compare and contrasting two historical periods or events, you may ask: When did they occur (the dates and the duration)? What happened or changed during each event? Why are they significant? Who were the important people involved? How did the events occur, and what consequences did they have later in history?
• If you're compare and contrasting two ideas or theories, you may ask: What were they about? How did they originate? Who created them? What is the central focus, claim, or goal of each theory? How do the theories apply to situations/people/things, etc.? What kind of evidence is used to support each theory?
• If you're compare and contrasting two pieces of art, you may ask: What does each piece of art describe or depict? What is their tone or mood? What themes do they address? Who created them? When were they created? How do the creators of the artworks describe their own work? Why do you think the artworks were created as they were?
• If you're compare and contrasting two people, you may ask: Where is each person from? How old are they? What, if anything, are they known for? How do they identify themselves in terms of gender, race, class, etc? Do the two people have any relationship to each other? What does each person do? Why is each person interesting? What are the defining features of each person?

• Your instructor may also ask for a discussion of more than one similarity and difference between the two topics or two perspectives. Identify any gaps in your knowledge and prepare to do research so you can better compare and contrast the two topics in your essay.

Creating an Outline

• Your thesis should note the key similarities and differences of both subjects. For example: “Dogs and cats are both seen as ideal, domesticated pets, but their temperaments and breeding set them apart.”
• Your thesis should also be able to answer the question, “So what? Why should anyone care about the positives and the negatives of owning a cat or a dog?” A reader may also wonder why you chose to look at cats and dogs, and not other domesticated pets like birds, reptiles, or rabbits. Your thesis statement is much stronger if you address these questions, and a stronger thesis can lead to a stronger essay.
• The revised thesis may look like: “Dogs and cats are both considered ideal, domesticated pets, and prove more popular than other domesticated animals like birds or rabbits, but the low maintenance and particular temperament of cats makes them better pets for a variety of households.” A more concise thesis, which allows for a more open discussion of both options, may look like: “Both cats and dogs make excellent domesticated pets, but an appropriate choice depends on the pet owner's lifestyle, finances, and living accommodations.”

• Introduction: Introduce the general topic, then introduce the two specific topics. End with your thesis, which addresses what is going to be covered in the essay.
• Leads into Aspect 1: Lifestyle, with at least two details. For example, how cats do not have to watched during the day, and are easier to get care if the owner travels or is often not home.
• Leads into Aspect 2: Cost, with at least two details. For example, how food and healthcare are less expensive for cats and how cats are less likely to cause property damage to the owner's home.
• Leads into Aspect 3: Living accommodations, with at least two details. For example, how cats do not take up a lot of space and they are less intrusive as they do not require daily walks or constant play.
• End the paragraph with a transition sentence.
• Body paragraph 2 will follow the same structure, with three Aspects and two supporting details for each aspect.
• Body paragraph 3 can follow the same structure as Body paragraph 2 and 3. Or it can be a paragraph that develops the comparison made in the previous two paragraphs. You can use scientific data, crowd sourced feedback, or a personal experience. For example, you may have been in a position where you had to compare and contrast adopting a dog or a cat and made your decision based on your lifestyle, finances, and living situation. This could serve as a personal experience to back up your previous arguments.
• Conclusion: Contains a summary of your main points, a restating of your thesis, an evaluation of your analysis and any future developments that may sway your compare and contrast to one topic over the other.

• Introduction: Introduce the general topic, then introduce the two specific topics. End with your thesis, which addresses what is going to covered in the essay.
• Leads into Topic 1, Aspect 1: Cats, with two details supporting cats in the argument. For example, how cats do not have to watched during the day, and are easier to get care if the owner travels or is often not home.
• Leads into Topic 2, Aspect 1: Dogs, with two details contrasting dogs to the previous argument. For example, how dogs are pack animals and shouldn't be left alone for long periods of time, and how it can be difficult to find care for a dog when the owner is away.
• Ends with a transition sentence.
• Body paragraph 2 will follow the same structure, with a discussion of Topic 1 and Topic 2 in relation to Aspect 2, for example: “Cats are less expensive to own and care for.” There should be two supporting details for each topic.
• Body paragraph 3 will follow the same structure, with a discussion of Topic 1 and Topic 2 in relation to Aspect 3, for example: “Cats need less special house accommodations than dogs.” There should be two supporting details for each topic.

Writing an Introduction

• You should also avoid announcing your intentions in a straightforward and formal way. For example, skip statements like “In this paper, I will” or “The purpose of this essay is to”.
• Instead, your reader should be able to perceive the purpose of your essay through the first two sentences in your beginning paragraph.

• An interesting or surprising example: This could be a personal experience of when a cat proved to be a better pet than a dog, or a scientific study that shows the differences between cats and dogs.
• A provocative quotation: This could be from a source you used for your essay or one that feels relevant to your topic.
• A vivid anecdote: An anecdote is a very short story that carries moral or symbolic weight. Think of an anecdote that might be a poetic or powerful way to start your essay. You can also look through your research for your essay for any note worthy anecdotes.
• A thought provoking question: Think of a question that will get your reader thinking and engaged in your topic. For example: “Did you always wish you had a cat but ended up with a dog when you were growing up?”

• The writing process can be an important way to organize your ideas, think through certain points, and refine your thoughts. Writing or revising the introduction once you are done your essay will ensure the introduction matches the body of your essay.

Community Q&A

• Ask a friend, advisor or classmate to read your introduction and thesis. Having someone provide feedback before you get into the body of your compare and contrast essay can help you ensure you have a well written, thorough and purposeful start to your paper. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

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• ↑ https://www.kellogg.edu/upload/eng151/chapter/writing-for-success-comparecontrast/index.html
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/comparing-and-contrasting/
• ↑ http://writingcenter.unc.edu/handouts/comparing-and-contrasting/
• ↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/compare-contrast/
• ↑ https://open.lib.umn.edu/writingforsuccess/chapter/10-7-comparison-and-contrast/
• ↑ http://writingcenter.unc.edu/handouts/introductions/

About This Article

To start a compare and contrast essay, start by making a list of similarities and differences between your subjects. Once you have a clearer idea of how your subjects work in relation to each other, you can work on your introduction. Think about ways to hook or grab your reader’s attention with your opening, like giving a surprising or interesting fact or a vivid anecdote. You can also ask a thought-provoking question or use a provocative quotation. Then, introduce your general topic. Once you give your reader a bit of context, you can discuss your two specific subjects in a bit more detail before stating your thesis. Your thesis should note the main similarities and differences between both subjects. For example, “Dogs and cats are both seen as ideal domestic pets, but their temperaments and breeding set them apart.” To learn how to organize your compare and contrast essay, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Home » A Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Perfect Compare and Contrast Essay

A Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Perfect Compare and Contrast Essay

Are you having trouble with writing a compare and contrast essay? You are not alone. Many students struggle with understanding the concept of compare and contrast essays, and how to write them effectively. This guide will provide an overview of what a compare and contrast essay is, what benefits it can offer, and how to write one.

What is a compare and contrast essay?

A compare and contrast essay is a type of essay that requires you to analyze two or more subjects and compare their similarities and differences. It allows you to examine how two or more items are related and how they differ from one another. This type of essay is often used to explore complex topics or to compare two or more items that are closely related.

The goal of a compare and contrast essay is to draw a conclusion about the similarities and differences between the two or more items being compared. It is important to note that a compare and contrast essay is not the same as a comparison and contrast essay. In a comparison and contrast essay, you are asked to compare two or more items and then contrast them, whereas in a compare and contrast essay, you are asked to analyze the similarities and differences between the two or more items.

Benefits of writing a compare and contrast essay

There are several benefits to writing a compare and contrast essay. It can help you gain a better understanding of the topics you are comparing and contrasting. It can also help you develop your critical thinking skills and sharpen your analytical skills. Additionally, compare and contrast essays are a great way to practice writing essays in preparation for college and other standardized tests.

Writing a compare and contrast essay can also help you hone your writing skills. You can practice writing in a variety of different styles and develop an understanding of how to effectively structure an essay. It can also help you practice your research and organizational skills.

Outline of a compare and contrast essay

A compare and contrast essay typically follows a basic outline. First, you will introduce the two or more items you are comparing and contrasting. Then, you will discuss the similarities and differences between the two items, providing evidence and examples to support your argument. Finally, you will draw a conclusion based on the information you have presented.

The structure of a compare and contrast essay may vary depending on the type of essay you are writing and the topics you are discussing. However, a typical compare and contrast essay outline should look something like this:

• Introduction
• Similarities
• Differences

How to choose a topic for a compare and contrast essay

Choosing the right topic for your compare and contrast essay is an important step. You want to choose a topic that is interesting to you and that you can easily compare and contrast. It should be something that you can easily write about and that will provide enough evidence and examples to support your argument.

When choosing a topic, it is also important to consider the scope of your essay. You should choose a topic that is broad enough that you can discuss it in depth in the allotted space, but not so broad that you have difficulty narrowing it down. You should also consider the audience you are writing for when choosing a topic.

Tips for writing a compare and contrast essay

Once you have chosen a topic for your compare and contrast essay, it is time to start writing. Here are some tips to help you get started:

• Start by researching the two or more items you are comparing and contrasting. Make sure to take notes and gather any relevant evidence that you can use to support your argument.
• Create an outline of your essay. This will help you organize your thoughts and stay on track as you write.
• Develop your thesis statement. This should clearly state what you are comparing and contrasting and why.
• Think about the structure of your essay. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of using a point-by-point structure or a block structure.
• Use clear language and avoid using overly complex words or phrases.
• Use evidence to support your argument. Include facts, quotes, statistics, and other relevant examples to strengthen your argument.
• Make sure to provide a conclusion. This should tie all of your arguments together and clearly state your conclusion.

Guidelines for structuring a compare and contrast essay

When structuring a compare and contrast essay, there are two main approaches you can take: a point-by-point structure or a block structure.

In a point-by-point structure, you will discuss one point of comparison for each item before moving on to the next point. This structure allows you to go into more depth with each point and compare and contrast the two or more items in greater detail.

In a block structure, you will discuss all of the points of comparison for one item before moving on to the next item. This structure is more general, but it can be helpful when the items you are comparing and contrasting don’t have many obvious similarities or differences.

Examples of compare and contrast essay topics

Here are some examples of compare and contrast essay topics:

• The similarities and differences between cats and dogs
• The advantages and disadvantages of living in a city versus living in the countryside
• The pros and cons of online versus traditional education
• The benefits of online shopping versus in-store shopping
• The similarities and differences between the Republican and Democratic parties
• The advantages and disadvantages of using public transportation versus driving a car

Common mistakes to avoid in compare and contrast essays

When writing a compare and contrast essay, it is important to avoid some common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them:

• Avoid using overly broad generalizations.
• Don’t make assumptions about your readers.
• Don’t make sweeping judgments without providing evidence.
• Don’t make sweeping conclusions without considering all the evidence.
• Don’t focus too heavily on one item while ignoring the other.
• Don’t jump to conclusions without considering all the evidence.

How to proofread and edit a compare and contrast essay

Once you have written your compare and contrast essay, it is important to proofread and edit it to make sure it is free of errors and that your argument is clear and concise. Here are some tips to help you proofread and edit your essay:

• Read it aloud. This can help you identify any errors or awkward phrasing.
• Read it backwards. This can help you identify any spelling or grammar errors you may have missed.
• Have someone else read it. Ask a friend, family member, or teacher to read your essay and provide feedback.
• Check for consistency. Make sure that all of your facts and examples are accurate and consistent throughout the essay.
• Check for logic. Make sure your argument is logical and that your evidence supports your conclusion.

Writing a compare and contrast essay can be a challenging task, but it doesn’t have to be. With a little research, practice, and the right tips, you can write a perfect compare and contrast essay. Just remember to choose a topic that is interesting to you and that you can easily compare and contrast. Good luck!

By Erin Cross

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Litero Blog

How to Write a Compare and Contrast Essay

Sophie Lane

A compare and contrast essay is much like being a detective. You choose two exciting subjects to investigate and carefully lay out the evidence of how they are alike and how they are different to give your reader a clear view of both topics. From cats and dogs to world leaders to two different smartphones, a good compare and contrast essay should neatly lay out the distinctive traits of each topic in an enjoyable, relatable manner. So, if you have ever wished to know how to write a compare and contrast essay that grabs the reader’s attention, offers new discoveries, and reads like a breeze, then read on!

What is a Compare and Contrast Essay?

A compare and contrast essay is an essay that compares and contrasts two (or more) things. Learning how to write a compare and contrast essay is basically the learning process of analyzing something.? A good compare and contrast essay should cover more than just the similarities and differences. 

How To Write A Compare And Contrast Essay – Guide

Step 1: choose the right subjects.

The first and foremost step how to write a compare and contrast essay is selecting appropriate subjects to compare with each other. The two subjects should have enough similarities to make them comparable, but with regards to their differences as well.

Effective Selection: The choice of two popular tourist destinations. For example, Paris and Tokyo. Both are metropolitan areas that are rich in history. However, they have a stark difference in terms of culture and environment.

Ineffective Selection: The choice of comparison between apples and wrenches since they have less in common. Thus, it is difficult to find out the grounds for comparison. 

Step 2: Brainstorm and Research Your Points

After determining the subjects, the next step is to think of possible similarities and differences between the two subjects. Write down these points, whether they are typical or unusual. 

Tip: You may use a Venn diagram to facilitate comparison between the two subjects and illustrate the similarities in the central portion of the diagram and the unique characteristics on its sides. After that, research the subjects to learn more about them. 

Step 3: Develop a Strong Thesis Statement

It is the central idea around which your comparison will revolve. A strong thesis statement does not simply state the similarities and differences between the claimed subjects. It also elaborates on its importance and what the comparison would provide the readers with. 

Example of weak thesis statement: ‘There are both similarities and differences between Paris and Tokyo.’ 

Example of strong thesis statement : ‘While both Paris and Tokyo are renowned cultural hubs, Paris’s historical focus contrasts with Tokyo’s technological advancements, highlighting how each city merges past and future in unique ways.’ 

Step 4: Choose the Right Structure

There are primarily two types of structures:

1. Point-by-Point Structure: Discusses each point in relation to both subjects before moving to the next point. This is usually best for more complicated topics or subjects that are being compared or contrasted based on multiple points. 

Example: In-person learning vs. online learning

• Point 1: Engagement (compare both)
• Point 2: Accessibility (compare both)
• Point 3: Flexibility (compare both)

2. Block Structure: Discusses all points related to a subject before moving to the other subject. This type of structure is best for when there are a lot of points to discuss for each subject. 

Example: All points relating to in-person learning (location, structure, rules, etc.).All points related to online learning. 

Step 5: Write an Engaging Introduction

An effective introduction will engage readers to continue reading and will effectively introduce the writer’s subjects and thesis. 

Sample Introduction: ‘Learning environments provide different alternatives today, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The traditional classroom has been the default learning environment for decades, but online studying has become a popular option for many. This essay will compare the engagement, accessibility, and flexibility of in-person and online classes, showing how both emerging models can address different needs for the students.’

Step 6: Craft Well-Organized Body Paragraphs

The body of the essay should contain one point of comparison or contrast per paragraph, supported with appropriate examples, evidence, and analyses.

Example Body Paragraph (Point-by-Point Method): ‘Among the benefits of traditional classrooms is direct interaction between teachers and students. Conversely, in online learning, students and teachers usually interact through the discussion board or virtual meetings, which are less personal and may lack the immediacy of feedback.’

Consider the help of  Litero AI – you can continue writing specific paragraphs for your comparison, so a rough draft will be ready easily in minutes. 

Step 7: Write a Strong Conclusion

The conclusion unifies the essay’s core ideas, supports the thesis statement, and offers the reader a last impression. Explain why the comparison is significant and what it teaches about each item.

Sample Conclusion: ‘To sum up, the decision of both in-person and online education has a clear advantage in meeting the demands of the students. Knowing the difference between the two choices will help the students and teachers to decide a suitable place for learning.’

The skill of how to write a compare and contrast essay is significant for developing a comparison and contrast analytical ability. Now, you are armed with skills on how to write a compare and contrast essay to build up an effective, focused, and attractive essay that interests your reader. Happy writing!

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