How to Start a Compare and Contrast Essay: Brainstorming Similarities and Differences
- Begin with a List of Similarities and Differences
- Start by creating two columns: one for similarities, the other for differences.
- Jot down the most striking characteristics of each subject.
- Look for Subtle Similarities and Differences
- After listing the obvious, explore each subject from different angles.
- Use your imagination to uncover deeper connections or contrasts.
- Create a Venn Diagram for Visual Learners
- Draw two overlapping circles, one for each subject.
- In the overlap, write similarities, and in the non-overlapping sections, note the differences.
- Example: Comparing Oranges and Apples
- Oranges: thick peel, tropical, from India.
- Apples: thin peel, subtropical, from Turkey/Kazakhstan.
- Similarities: both fruit, grow on trees, and can be juiced.
- Apply This Method to More Complex Topics
- Once comfortable with simple examples, use this method for more complicated topics.
- Add more specific points of comparison and contrast as needed.