Comparison and contrast is a thought process that you most likely have gone through many times (e.g., how do these two makes of car compare? which dessert is the best to bring to the party? how can my two children be so different?) In college writing, you may be asked to compare or contrast two theories, concepts, approaches, etc. in order to show similarities or differences and evaluate each.  Note the repetition of the word “two.” Comparison and contrast pattern evaluates two things against one another.  Also note the repetition of the word “evaluate.”  As you compare and contrast, you’ll be expected not only to describe the characteristics of the two things, theories, concepts, or approaches, but also to offer some assessment or analysis, as part of your thesis’ angle and supporting evidence.

There are two different, equally useful, patterns for comparison and contrast:

1. Side by side
2. Point by point

Side by Side Pattern

Writers using side by side pattern deal with all of the information for one of the things being compared first, before moving to all of the information for the other thing being compared. However, within each side, the points of comparison/contrast need to be dealt with in exactly the same order.

Side by Side

1. Introduction leading to Thesis
2. Body
   1. Topic sentence for Side 1 of the Comparison
      1. Point 1 (all points may also be topic sentences)
      2. Point 2
      3. Point 3
      4. Point 4
   2. Topic sentence for Side 2 of the Comparison
      1. Point 1
      2. Point 2
      3. Point 3
      4. Point 4
3. Re-stated thesis leading to Conclusion

Note that with side by side format, you may end up with only two topic sentences, or you may end up with general topic sentences to introduce each side, and then a series of more specific topic sentences for each point.

Here’s a graphic organizer for the Side by Side Comparison and Contrast pattern.

Point by Point Pattern

Writers using point by point pattern deal with each point of comparison/contrast in an order that makes sense given the two things being compared. However, under each point, the same side always needs to come first.

Point by Point

1. Introduction leading to Thesis
2. Body
   1. Topic sentence for Point 1
      1. Side 1
      2. Side 2
   2. Topic sentence for Point 2
      1. Side 1
      2. Side 2
   3. Topic sentence for Point 3
      1. Side 1
      2. Side 2
   4. Topic sentence for Point 4
      1. Side 1
      2. Side 2
3. Re-stated thesis leading to Conclusion

The idea for either pattern is to maintain careful and equal balance when comparing or contrasting two items, persons, ideas, etc.

Here’s a graphic organizer for the Point by Point Comparison and Contrast pattern.

For a clear overview of comparison and contrast essays, view the following video.

Comparison and Contrast in Action:

Make sure to read sample Comparison and Contrast essays in the Sample Essays section of this text.