This document provides guidance on how to write a comparison and contrast essay. It explains that a comparison shows similarities, while a contrast shows differences, and most essays do both. It advises establishing a basis for comparison by choosing subjects with enough in common. The document also suggests determining an emphasis on similarities or differences, major points of focus, and treating the same elements in each subject. It provides examples of outlining comparisons in a table and writing a thesis statement. Finally, it discusses organizing the essay with an introduction, body paragraphs comparing points, and a conclusion restating the thesis.