How to write a compare and contrast essay
Short answer: A compare and contrast essay shows how two things are alike and different. Open by naming both and your main point, organize the body by points (appearance, cost, use) or by subjects, use words such as both, similarly, but and however, and close with what the comparison shows.
🎯 I can compare two things.
At a glance
| Part | Job | Example |
|---|---|---|
| introduction | names both and the point | Buses and trains both carry many people. |
| body paragraphs | points of comparison | cost, speed, comfort |
| conclusion | what it shows | Each fits a different trip. |
How to write it
- Choose two things and decide the points to compare.
- Make a short list of similarities and differences.
- Write one body paragraph per point, using both, similarly, but and however.
- Close with what the comparison shows.
A model text
Buses and trains both carry many people, but they suit different trips.
In cost, buses are cheaper. However, trains are faster over long distances.
In comfort, trains are quieter, while buses can stop closer to your door.
In short, choose the bus for short trips and the train for long ones.
- The introduction names both.
- Each paragraph compares one point.
- The conclusion says what it shows.
Common mistakes
Buses are cheap. Trains are fast. (no link)→ Buses are cheap, but trains are fast.
Link the two sides.All about buses, then all about trains, with no points.→ Compare point by point.
Keep the same points.Both is cheaper.→ Both are cheap.
Both takes a plural verb.
Words for likeness and difference
Choose the word by relationship.
| Relationship | Words |
|---|---|
| alike | both, similarly, also |
| different | but, however, while |
Check yourself
- Which word shows difference?
Show the answer
however It contrasts two ideas.
- Which word shows likeness?
Show the answer
both It joins two things.
- How can you organize the body?
Show the answer
By points. Or by subject.
Rule cards that help
- Comparing two things: -er and more … than: To compare two things, short words add -er and we say than. Long words use more … than.
- The best: comparing three or more: To say which one is number one, use the + -est, or the most for long words.
Sounds that help
- Sentence Stress: Stress the words that matter
- Rhythm & Chunking: Read in chunks
- Longer Word Stress: Long words: one big beat
Questions
How long is it?
Three to five paragraphs.
Point-by-point or subject-by-subject?
Point by point is clearer for beginners.
Where can I practice?
The articles and essays stone has compare and contrast lessons.
Part of 📰 Articles and essays (stone 4 of the Learning Path). See also the English writing guide. Đọc bằng tiếng Việt.
Written for English learners by the English for Fun team. How we write our lessons · Last updated 2026-11-05.
Reviewed by Chinh Q. Hoang, PhD, founder, English for Fun · 2026-10-30