Words That Compare: Mastering the Art of Comparison and Contrast in Academic Writing

Introduction

Throughout your academic journey, you’ll encounter diverse writing assignments, each demanding a unique approach. Among these, the comparison/contrast essay stands out as a fundamental exercise. This essay type requires you to explore the similarities (comparison) and differences (contrast) between two or more subjects, ideas, or concepts. By engaging in comparison and contrast, you move beyond simple description, delving into critical analysis and establishing meaningful connections between your chosen subjects. This process not only enhances your understanding of the subjects themselves but also sharpens your analytical skills, encouraging deeper insights and more nuanced perspectives. This guide will help you understand assignments asking for comparison, generate points of comparison, and effectively use “Words That Compare” to structure a compelling and insightful essay.

Identifying Comparison and Contrast Assignments

Many assignments explicitly signal the need for comparison and contrast by using specific keywords. Look out for these terms in your essay prompts:

• Compare: This term directs you to focus on the similarities between subjects.
• Contrast: This term asks you to highlight the differences between subjects.
• Similarities: Assignments using this word want you to identify common traits or aspects.
• Differences: Prompts using this word require you to pinpoint distinct characteristics.
• Analyze the relationship: This phrasing often implies exploring both similarities and differences to understand how subjects connect or diverge.
• Examine in relation to: Similar to “analyze the relationship,” this suggests a comparative approach.

Here are some examples of assignment prompts that clearly require comparison and contrast:

• “Compare and contrast the economic policies of the Reagan and Clinton administrations.”
• “Identify the similarities and differences in the narrative styles of Hemingway and Faulkner.”
• “Contrast the approaches to environmental conservation taken by two different countries.”

However, not all assignments are this straightforward. Sometimes, the need for comparison and contrast is implied rather than explicitly stated. In these cases, you need to carefully analyze the prompt to discern the underlying expectation. Consider these examples where comparison and contrast are implicit:

• “Discuss the theme of alienation in two works of modern literature.” (Implies comparing how different authors approach the same theme).
• “Analyze the causes of World War I and World War II.” (Suggests comparing and contrasting causal factors).
• “Evaluate the effectiveness of two different marketing strategies.” (Requires comparing and contrasting their outcomes and approaches).
• “Explore the concept of justice in Plato’s Republic and Rawls’ Theory of Justice.” (Demands a comparison of their philosophical viewpoints).

In these less explicit prompts, “words that compare” are crucial for constructing your analysis. You will use comparative language to draw parallels and distinctions as you explore the topic. If you’re ever unsure whether an assignment involves comparison/contrast, it’s always best to consult your instructor for clarification.

Leveraging Comparison and Contrast for Broader Writing Projects

Even when an assignment doesn’t explicitly ask for comparison and contrast, these analytical techniques can be invaluable tools in your writing process. Employing comparison and contrast in your pre-writing stages can unlock fresh perspectives and strengthen your arguments, regardless of the essay type.

For instance, if you aim to argue for the superiority of one economic theory over another, systematically comparing and contrasting their core tenets, strengths, and weaknesses will solidify your evaluation. This preparatory comparison, even if not directly featured in your final paper, enriches your analysis and bolsters your argumentative stance.

Consider another scenario: you’re writing a persuasive essay about climate change solutions. Comparing and contrasting different proposed solutions (renewable energy vs. nuclear power, for example) can help you build a nuanced argument, acknowledging trade-offs and advocating for the most effective approaches. By exploring both the common ground and the diverging paths, you create a more compelling and insightful piece of writing.

Uncovering Similarities and Differences: Techniques and Tools

To effectively compare and contrast, you need systematic methods for identifying similarities and differences. Visual aids like Venn diagrams and comparison charts are excellent tools for this purpose.

Venn Diagram:

A Venn diagram visually represents overlapping relationships. Draw overlapping circles, each representing a subject you’re comparing. The overlapping section is where you list shared characteristics (similarities). The non-overlapping sections are for unique traits (differences).

For example, comparing online learning and traditional classroom learning:

Venn diagram illustrating similarities and differences between online and traditional learning

Comparison Chart:

A comparison chart is a table that systematically organizes points of comparison across your subjects. List your criteria for comparison down the left column and your subjects across the top row. Fill in each cell with details relevant to that criterion and subject.

For example, comparing different social media platforms:

As you brainstorm points of comparison, always keep your assignment’s purpose and the course context in mind. What key insights is your instructor hoping you’ll derive from this comparison? How does it connect to broader course themes and previous discussions? Refer back to the assignment prompt for clues about focus areas.

To generate comparison points, consider these general questions, adaptable to various subjects:

For comparing historical periods or events:

• Timeframe: When did they occur? What were their durations? What significant changes happened within each period?
• Key Developments: What were the major social, political, economic, and cultural developments in each period?
• Causation and Consequence: What were the causes and long-term consequences of these events or periods?
• Social Structures: What were the dominant social structures, relationships, and values in each period?
• Leadership and Governance: What types of governments existed? Who were the key figures and leaders?

For comparing ideas or theories:

• Core Principles: What are the central tenets, claims, or arguments of each idea or theory?
• Origins and Development: When and where did they originate? Who were the key proponents and developers?
• Applications: How are these ideas or theories applied to real-world situations, phenomena, or subjects?
• Strengths and Weaknesses: What are the strengths, limitations, and criticisms of each idea or theory?
• Evidence and Support: What kind of evidence is used to support each idea or theory?
• Scope and Influence: What is the scope and overall impact or influence of each idea or theory?

For comparing literary or artistic works:

• Title and Subject Matter: What are the titles? What do they depict or describe?
• Form and Style: What are their forms (poem, novel, painting, sculpture, etc.)? What are their styles and techniques?
• Creator and Context: Who created them? When were they created? What were the historical, cultural, or artistic contexts?
• Themes and Motifs: What are the major themes, motifs, and symbols explored in each work?
• Quality and Impact: How do they compare in terms of artistic merit, originality, or cultural impact?

For comparing individuals:

• Background and Demographics: Where are they from? What are their ages, backgrounds, and relevant demographic characteristics?
• Notable Achievements: What are they known for? What are their significant accomplishments or contributions?
• Relationships and Connections: How do they relate to each other? Are there significant connections or influences?
• Personal Traits and Beliefs: What are their personalities, beliefs, values, and motivations?
• Impact and Legacy: What is their lasting impact or legacy in their respective fields or on society?

Remember to use “words that compare” throughout this stage. Phrases like “similarly,” “in contrast,” “both,” “however,” and “while” can help you articulate the relationships you’re uncovering between your subjects.

Selecting Your Focus: Relevance and Insight

After generating a comprehensive list of similarities and differences, the next step is to curate this information. Not all points are equally relevant or insightful. Ask yourself these critical questions to refine your focus:

• Assignment Relevance: Which points directly address the essay prompt and its specific requirements?
• Course Context: Which points align with the broader themes, discussions, and learning objectives of the course?
• Reader Engagement: Which points are most interesting, informative, and likely to capture the reader’s attention?
• Argumentative Power: Which points best support the argument you intend to make in your essay?
• Essential Information: Are there any fundamental similarities or differences that must be mentioned, even if seemingly obvious, to provide a complete picture?
• Dominant Focus: Overall, are the similarities or differences more significant and central to your analysis? Should your essay primarily emphasize one over the other?

For instance, in a literary comparison essay, focusing on the typeface used in different editions is likely irrelevant, while analyzing character development, thematic concerns, or narrative style is highly pertinent. The key is to prioritize points that offer analytical depth and align with the academic context of your assignment.

Sometimes, a comparison point might be relevant but lack significant insight. Stating that two poems both use nature imagery, while true, might be too superficial for an in-depth literary analysis. Instead, explore how nature is depicted, what aspects of nature are emphasized, and what symbolic meanings are associated with nature in each poem. This deeper level of analysis yields more compelling and sophisticated insights. Using “words that compare” effectively will be crucial in highlighting these nuanced distinctions and connections.

Crafting a Strong Thesis Statement for Comparison/Contrast

Your thesis statement is the backbone of your comparison/contrast essay. It provides focus, direction, and a roadmap for your reader. A strong thesis transcends simple statements of topic; it articulates a specific argument about the significance of the comparison and contrast.

Avoid vague thesis statements like:

• “This paper will compare and contrast two novels.”
• “Novel A and Novel B are similar and different.”
• “There are many similarities and differences between Novel A and Novel B.”

Instead, aim for a thesis that is specific, analytical, and insightful:

• “While both Novel A and Novel B explore themes of social isolation, Novel A emphasizes the psychological consequences of isolation through a stream-of-consciousness narrative, whereas Novel B examines its societal impact through a multi-perspective structure.”

This stronger thesis not only identifies the subjects and the comparative approach but also pinpoints the specific aspects being compared (narrative techniques and perspectives on social isolation) and hints at the argument (different approaches to portraying isolation’s effects).

Consider how “words that compare” can be incorporated into your thesis statement to immediately signal your essay’s focus and analytical direction. For example:

• “Although both authors utilize symbolism, their contrasting approaches to metaphor reveal fundamentally different worldviews.” (Highlights ‘although’ and ‘contrasting’ as key “words that compare” in the thesis itself).

Structuring Your Comparison/Contrast Essay: Organizational Strategies

Effective organization is paramount in a comparison/contrast essay to ensure clarity and logical flow. Two primary organizational structures are commonly used: subject-by-subject and point-by-point. Both approaches benefit from the strategic use of “words that compare” to guide the reader.

1. Subject-by-Subject (Block) Method:

This method dedicates separate blocks of text to each subject. You discuss all aspects of subject A, then transition to subject B and discuss the same aspects in the same order for subject B.

Example Structure (Comparing Pepper’s Pizza and Amante Pizza):

• Introduction: Thesis statement comparing Pepper’s and Amante.
• Subject A: Pepper’s Pizza
  • Paragraph 1: Ingredients at Pepper’s.
  • Paragraph 2: Location of Pepper’s.
  • Paragraph 3: Atmosphere of Pepper’s.
• Subject B: Amante Pizza
  • Paragraph 4: Ingredients at Amante.
  • Paragraph 5: Location of Amante.
  • Paragraph 6: Atmosphere of Amante.
• Conclusion: Summarize comparisons and restate thesis.

Using “words that compare” in Subject-by-Subject:

While this structure separates discussions of each subject, use transition sentences at the beginning of each Subject B section to explicitly link back to Subject A and signal the comparative element. For example, when transitioning to Amante, start a paragraph with: “In contrast to Pepper’s lively atmosphere, Amante offers a more subdued dining experience.”

2. Point-by-Point (Alternating) Method:

This method organizes your essay around specific points of comparison. For each point, you discuss both subject A and subject B in the same paragraph or section.

Example Structure (Comparing Pepper’s Pizza and Amante Pizza):

• Introduction: Thesis statement comparing Pepper’s and Amante.
• Point 1: Ingredients
  • Paragraph 1: Compare ingredients at Pepper’s and Amante.
• Point 2: Location
  • Paragraph 2: Compare locations of Pepper’s and Amante.
• Point 3: Atmosphere
  • Paragraph 3: Compare atmospheres of Pepper’s and Amante.
• Conclusion: Summarize comparisons and restate thesis.

Using “words that compare” in Point-by-Point:

This method naturally lends itself to using “words that compare” within each paragraph. As you discuss each point, seamlessly integrate comparative language to highlight similarities and differences between subject A and subject B. For example, within the “Ingredients” paragraph, you might write: “While both Pepper’s and Amante use fresh mozzarella, Pepper’s offers a wider variety of vegetable toppings, whereas Amante specializes in cured meats.”

Choosing the Right Structure:

• Subject-by-Subject: Effective for shorter essays or when discussing fewer points of comparison for each subject. Can be simpler to manage but risks becoming two separate descriptions if transitions aren’t strong.
• Point-by-Point: Ideal for longer essays or when you have numerous points of comparison. Facilitates direct comparison and contrast within paragraphs, leading to a more integrated analysis. Requires careful organization to maintain clarity.

Regardless of the chosen structure, the strategic placement of “words that compare” is essential for guiding your reader and ensuring the comparative nature of your analysis is always evident.

Strategic Use of “Words That Compare”: Cue Words and Transitions

To ensure your reader clearly grasps the comparison and contrast in your essay, utilize strong transitions and topic sentences enriched with “words that compare.” These words act as signals, guiding your reader through your analysis and highlighting the relationships between your subjects.

Key Categories of “Words That Compare”:

• Words of Similarity (Comparison):
  • like, similar to, likewise, similarly, in the same way, also, too, as well as, both, equally, in common, corresponding to, akin to, analogous to.
• Words of Difference (Contrast):
  • unlike, in contrast, however, on the other hand, conversely, nevertheless, nonetheless, yet, while, whereas, although, even though, despite, in spite of, different from, distinct from, diverge, vary.
• Words Indicating Degree of Difference or Similarity:
  • more, less, greater, smaller, larger, to a greater extent, to a lesser extent, significantly, considerably, marginally, slightly, in the same vein, to a similar degree.

Examples of Topic Sentences using “Words That Compare”:

• Comparison (Similarity): “Like Pepper’s, Amante prioritizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients in their pizzas.”
• Contrast (Difference): “In contrast to Amante’s quiet ambiance, Pepper’s offers a vibrant and bustling atmosphere, often filled with live music.”
• Combined Comparison and Contrast: “While both restaurants offer delivery services, Pepper’s delivery area is significantly wider than Amante’s, making it more accessible to customers outside the immediate downtown area.”
• Highlighting Degree: “Pepper’s offers a more extensive selection of vegetarian toppings than Amante, catering to a broader range of dietary preferences.”

Integrating “Words That Compare” Throughout Your Essay:

Don’t restrict “words that compare” to just topic sentences. Weave them throughout your paragraphs to:

• Connect ideas within paragraphs: “Amante, similarly, uses high-quality cheese, but they opt for a more traditional blend.”
• Transition between paragraphs: “Conversely, while Pepper’s excels in its lively atmosphere, Amante distinguishes itself through its sophisticated wine list.”
• Reinforce your thesis in the conclusion: “Ultimately, by examining their similar commitment to quality ingredients yet contrasting atmospheres and service styles, we see that Pepper’s and Amante cater to different dining preferences within the Chapel Hill community.”

By consciously and strategically incorporating “words that compare,” you create a cohesive and analytical essay that clearly articulates the relationships between your chosen subjects, guiding your reader to a deeper understanding of your comparative analysis.

This work is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 4.0

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill