Organizing a Comparison/Contrast Essay

Comparing and contrasting two ideas, items, or methods is a skill we often use in daily life.

There are two primary ways of organizing a comparison/contrast essay.

Block Method

1. In this method you first talk about Subject A.
2. Then talk about similarities and differences with Subject B.
3. That produces a paper with an AAA/BBB pattern.

Alternating Method

1. In this method you mention a characteristic of A.
2. Then you mention a characteristic of B, pointing out similarities and differences with A.
3. This is the ABABAB method.

When Writing Your Essay

• You can use the AAA/BBB or ABABAB method for either comparison or contrast.
• You need to decide whether to:
  • focus on the likenesses (comparison),
  • the differences (contrast),
  • or balance the two.

The effect of automobiles on people's lives.

Positive

• convenient
• comfortable
• private
• you can customize the interior
• exciting

Negative

• air pollution
• deaths & injuries in traffic accidents
• flat land taken for roads & parking
• traffic jams during rush hour and holidays
• changes in community: community becomes people you drive to visit who think like you, rather than the people who live near you

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