The first key to writing a successful comparison/contrast essays is to organize carefully. (Point by point organization)

Example: Suppose that you want to compare two jobs.

First, make a list of factors that are important to you: salary, benefits, opportunities for advancement…Each factor or point of comparison, is like a subtopic in a logical division essay.

I. Introduction in which you state your purpose which is to discuss differences between vacationing in the mountains or at the beach

II. First difference between mountains and beaches is climateA.  MountainsB.  Beach

III. Second difference between mountains and beaches are types of activitiesA.  MountainsB.  Beach

IV. Third difference between mountains and beaches is the locationA.  MountainsB.  Beach

V. Conclusion

The second key to writing successful comparison/contrast essays is the appropriate use a comparison and contrast signal words. These are words introduce points of contrast. It is not sufficient simply to describe each item that you are comparing. You must refer back and forth to, for example object A and object B and use comparison and contrast signal words to show what is the same an what is the different about them. You should also use a transition signals such as: firsts, second, one… ,another … , the final… ,for example and in a conclusion in addition to these special ones.

Contrast signal words fall into two main groups according to their meaning. The words in the first group show relation ship that is called concession. The words in second group show an opposition relationship.

Indicated the information in one clause is not the result you expect from the information give in other clause.

Although I studied all night, I failed the exam. unexpected

result

My failing the exam is not result you might expect from the information in the

first clause: I studied all night

The second group of contrast signal words shows that two things are directed opposites. With direct opposites, the signal word can introduce either piece of information.

I am short, whereas my brother is tall. OR My brother is tall, whereas I am short.