Comparing and contrasting (writing)
Comparing and contrasting is a vital analytical writing process that focuses on identifying the similarities and differences between two or more subjects, which can include objects, people, or ideas. This technique is widely used in academic settings, particularly in high school and college composition courses, to enhance critical thinking and organizational skills. Writers can integrate comparison and contrast within an essay or structure an entire essay around this format, utilizing either a block or point-by-point organizational pattern. A block pattern discusses each subject comprehensively before moving to the next, while a point-by-point approach alternates between subjects, providing detailed comparisons for each criterion. Effective transitions are crucial in this style of writing to clarify whether subjects are being compared or contrasted. Additionally, a clear thesis statement outlining the purpose of the comparison and contrast is essential for guiding readers. This method not only helps in clarifying complex topics but also fosters a deeper understanding of the subjects involved. Overall, comparing and contrasting serves as a powerful tool for effective communication and analysis in writing.
Comparing and contrasting (writing)
Comparing and contrasting is a process of analysis often used when writing. Comparing refers to finding similarities while contrasting refers to finding differences. When comparing and contrasting, writers explain how objects, people, or ideas are alike and different. Writers may compare and contrast within an essay or create an entire essay with a comparison-and-contrast organizational pattern. Students are often asked to write comparison-and-contrast essays in high school and in introductory composition classes in college.
Overview
Comparing and contrasting refers to explaining how two or more subjects (objects, people, or ideas) are alike and different. Writers may compare and contrast within an essay (often in five paragraph form) or article. For example, a student writing a research paper about renewable energy sources may compare and contrast passive and active solar energy in a paragraph or two. (Passive solar energy does not use mechanical devices, but active solar energy does.) Writers may also follow a comparison-and-contrast organizational structure when writing an essay. For example, a student might write an entire essay that compares and contrasts passive and active solar energy.
Organizational Patterns
When writing a comparison-and-contrast essay, writers may choose either a block or a point-by-point organizational pattern. A block organizational pattern, also called a subject-by-subject organizational pattern, discusses one subject completely and then another. Writers using this pattern make all their points about subject A and then all their points about subject B. The following paragraphs have a block organizational pattern:
Young people today are more likely to send text messages than have a telephone conversation even though talking on the phone has definite advantages over texting. Texting is a quick and easy way to get your point across. Text messages are recorded, so receivers can read them at their convenience. People can text in situations when it is inappropriate to have a telephone conversation, such as when they are in class or a restaurant.
A telephone call, on the other hand, requires a greater time commitment. You also have to answer the phone to receive the caller's message—you can't just read it later. Yet, telephone calls are more meaningful than text messages. They are more personal, in part, because you have a better sense of the receiver's tone and feelings. Your message is also clearer if you explain it during a telephone call. You are less likely to be misunderstood when you can explain yourself.
A point-by-point organizational pattern is also called a topic-by-topic organizational pattern. This type of organization compares and contrasts two or more subjects detail by detail. It flips back and forth between subject A and subject B. For example, a writer comparing two restaurants might discuss these points: location, ambiance, food, prices, and service. Many writers discuss one point per paragraph. For example, one paragraph might compare and contrast the food at two restaurants. The next paragraph might compare and contrast the quality of the service at the restaurants. When using a point-by-point organization, it is often best to discuss the most important points last because these are the points the reader is most likely to remember.
These paragraphs are organized point by point:
People often confuse crocodiles and alligators—and it's no wonder because they look so much alike. It is difficult to tell them apart. Both crocodiles and alligators have short legs, eyes on top of their head, and long, powerful tails that propel them through water. The shape of their jaw is different, however. A crocodile has a V-shaped jaw whereas an alligator's jaw is wider and shaped more like the letter U. When an alligator closes its mouth, you can't see its teeth. However, the bottom teeth on a crocodile's lower jaw stick out when its mouth is closed.
Crocodiles and alligators differ somewhat in their behavior. While both are able to walk on land but like to spend their time in water, they prefer different types of water. A crocodile prefers saltwater. An alligator, on the other hand, prefers freshwater. Both crocodiles and alligators use their sharp teeth to capture prey, but crocodiles are more aggressive. Neither a crocodile nor an alligator chews its food—instead, it swallows its food whole or in large chunks.
Transitions
A transitional word or phrase shows how one idea relates to another. The use of transitions is particularly important when comparing and contrasting to avoid confusion. Such transitions indicate whether the writer is comparing two subjects or contrasting them.
Writers often use these words and phrases when comparing: similarly, as well as, just as, likewise, in addition.
Writers often use these words and phrases when contrasting: on the other hand, although, in contrast, conversely, however, on the contrary.
Thesis Statement
A comparison-and-contrast essay must have a thesis statement. A thesis statement clearly indicates what the writer will discuss, or prove, in the essay. Establishing a thesis statement is an important part of the writing process. For comparison-and-contrast essays, writers should avoid making a general statement indicating that the subjects are both alike and different. They should instead include a specific thesis statement indicating the reason for the comparison and contrast. For example, a writer might include this thesis statement: "While crocodiles and alligators are commonly confused, minor differences in the reptiles' facial structure and behavior can help you distinguish one from the other." Writers often note in their thesis statement whether the subjects they are comparing and contrasting are more alike than different or vice versa. For example, "A telephone call and a text message are both made using a cell phone, but these types of communication are vastly different in terms of intimacy, accuracy, and convenience."
Topic Sentences
Writers who incorporate paragraphs that compare and contrast into an essay should take care to ensure that these paragraphs have a clear topic sentence. Like a thesis statement, a topic sentence states a main idea. A topic sentence is often the first sentence of a paragraph but can appear anywhere within the paragraph.
Bibliography
"Advantages and Disadvantages of Text Messaging. Study Mode. Nov. 2011. Web. 22 Oct. 2014.
http://www.studymode.com/essays/Advantages-And-Disadvantages-Of-Text-Messaging-848394.html
"Comparison and Contrast Guide." Read-Write-Think. National Council of Teachers of English. Web. 22 Oct. 2014.
http://www.readwritethink.org/files/resources/interactives/compcontrast/map.html
"Compare-and-Contrast Sample Paper." Time for Kids. Web. 22 Oct. 2014.
http://www.timeforkids.com/files/homework‗helper/aplus‗papers/CompareContrastSampler.pdf
Hausler, Rob. "The Disadvantages Texting Has Brought Upon Society." Elite Daily." Web. 22 Oct. 2014.
"How to Write an A+ Comparison Essay on Any Topic." Skills & Knowledge Ltd. Web. 22 Oct. 2014.
http://www.scoolwork.com/AboutUs.aspx
"How to Write a Compare/Contrast Essay." BookRags. Web. 22 Oct. 2014. http://www.bookrags.com/articles/5.html#gsc.tab=0
"What is the Difference Between Alligators and Crocodiles?" Ask the Aquarium. 20 Apr. 1998. Web. 22 Oct. 2014. http://www.ncaquariums.com/askaquarium/croc.htm