This document discusses comparison and contrast as a method of analysis. It explains that comparison shows similarities while contrast shows differences between two or more items. Choosing items for comparison that are similar is advised. The primary purpose of a comparison/contrast essay is to persuade, explain or inform the reader according to the author's thesis. There are two main patterns of organization: point-by-point, where each point is analyzed separately for both items, and block organization, where all attributes of one item are discussed before moving to the next item. An example comparing cars uses these organizational patterns.

1. Comparison and Contrast: Showing Relationships

2. What is comparison and contrast?Comparison shows how two or more things are similarContrast shows how two or more things are different

3. Why are they useful?Comparing and contrasting is in fact part of our everyday lives. We do it to determine if something is superior to or more advantageous than something else.Most decisions we make in life are the result of a process of comparison and contrast.

4. Selecting items for comparisonAlways choose two similaritems—two movies, two plays,—not two unequal items like a film and a painting.Next, decide if you want to compare or contrast as your primary strategy. Your job is to interestthe reader. Choose points to discuss that are not immediately obvious.

5. purposeWhen you write a comparison and contrast essay, you shouldn’t just point out similarities and differences. Your main purpose is to “persuade, explain or inform” (Smalley, Ruetten and Kozyrev, 2001, p. 164). Therefore, your thesis must include an opinion regarding the topic.

6. patterns OF ORGANIZATIONOnce you have decided whether you are going to focus on comparing or contrasting, you must decide on how you will organize your ideas.There are two basic patterns you can use:Point – by – Point

7. Block Organization (All of one/All of the Other)paTTERNS OF ORGANIZATIONTo illustrate the patterns of organization, let’s look at this example from Smalley, Ruetten and Kozyrev, 2001.Thesis: The Speed Damon 280 is a better car than the Road Runner XL.

8. The two cars will be contrasted in terms of:Cost of maintenance

9. Performance

10. ComfortPoint – by – pointI. Introductory paragraph: Introduces the topic and ends with the thesis.II. Cost of maintenanceThe Road Runner XLThe Speed Demon 280III. PerformanceThe Road Runner XLThe Speed Demon 280IV. ComfortA. The Road Runner XLB. The Speed Demon 280V. Conclusion (restates the thesis): In conclusion, the Speed Demon’s economy, superior performance and comfort make it the best car of its category.