Compare/contrast Essay Writing Instructions printable pdf download

Writing a Compare/Contrast Essay

PREWRITING:

1. Select two topics , making sure they have enough similarities and differences to make

interesting comparisons.

2. Gather Details & Brainstorm : Create a

Venn Diagram

to help you find

similarities and differences between your two topics. List all similarities and

differences you can think of, but eliminate any ideas that don’t suit your purpose. (You

won’t write about ALL the similarities and differences, just the ones that are the most

revealing or support your thesis the best).

3. Select points for discussion: Review your Venn Diagram, and determine whether your

emphasis will be on similarities, differences, or a mix of both. Choose points that

mirror each other (see examples)

4. Develop a thesis: First, decide whether your goal will be to INFORM, or to

PERSUADE. [Your teacher may assign you one goal or the other.] Your thesis should

identify your topics, and the point you will make about them. You may use a list thesis

to outline the points that will be discussed.

a. “Skeleton” thesis 1 (emphasizing differences): “Although they bear (Despite

bearing) some ________(superficial, minor) similarities, the differences

between ______(topic 1) and ________ (topic 2) are (clear, remarkable, etc.)

because_________.”

b. “ S keleton” thesis 2 (emphasizing similarities): “Although they appear to be

(Despite seeming) very different, the similarities between ______(topic 1) and

________ (topic 2) are (clear, remarkable, etc.) which is important because

_______________.”

NOTE: Y our thesis could sound a little different, and may add a list

structure outlining your points. It should, in any case, use a t ension

word

to open, such as “Although” or “Despite.”

5. Outline (see structures below)

Compare/contrast Essay Writing Instructions