Comparison and Contrast

A Compare/Contrast paper shows how things are alike or different. It does not have to address both sides; it may simply indicate similarities, or it may address only differences.

Purposes:

1. To explain by drawing distinctions between related subjects
1. Eliminate confusion
2. Inform: fairly show both subjects, but do not choose one over the other

2. To persuade readers to make a choice
1. Eliminate confusion
2. Persuade: show how one subject is preferable to the other

i. TV commercials—product superiority

ii. Political ads—one candidate is better than another

iii. Business proposals—one product/service is better than another

Selecting Topics:

Be sure subjects share enough common points for meaningful discussion. If a point is addressed on Subject A, it must also be addressed on Subject B.

When comparing broad or complex subjects, carefully limit the topic.

Organization:

1. Subject-by-subject

· Divide the paper into two sections

State all information about Topic A

State all information about Topic B

· Actual comparisons usually occur in the second part, where B is discussed in relation to A.

· Simple, straightforward method suited for short papers and abstract topics

2. Point-by-point

· Compare Topic A and Topic B on a series of specific subtopics

· Following an introduction, discuss A and B in a number of comparisons

Discuss one aspect of A and B

Discuss second aspect of A and B

Discuss third aspect of A and B

· Useful for long papers that can be broken into units

· Allows easy comparison of specific information

3. Blending

· Combine the Subject-by-subject and Point-by-point methods

· Clear organization is essential to avoid confusion.

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