Q&A for How to Write a Compare and Contrast Essay

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How should I start the essay?

Community Answer

Start out by naming both of the things you are comparing. For example, with apples and oranges, start out by saying, "Apples and oranges have many differences." Before creating the body paragraphs, name a few trivial differences that are different from the main ones on which you plan to focus.

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How do I start an introductory paragraph?

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Start with a hook to draw your reader into the essay. Introduce your topic with a few sentences that explain what you'll be writing about and end with a sentence that helps you transition into the first body paragraph.

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How should I conclude the essay?

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To conclude an essay, you might summarize your argument. Then you'll want to show your reader why your paper is significant and finally, leave them with something new to think about.

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Question

What would be the connector for contrast?

Community Answer

Some connectors could start with, "Although," "Even though," "While these are the differences..."

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What if I am given a text with no source?

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You may quote the text itself. Ask your teacher how she prefers you annotate it.

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How can I build my vocabulary?

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You can read books, as books increase your comprehension skills and your vocabulary. You can also try to engage in conversations with your teachers and peers to increase your vocabulary and discussion skills.

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How do I write about my brother's traits in third person?

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Community Answer

You can say this, "My brother has many traits. He is kind, caring, etc." "He" and "Brother" are 3rd person.

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Question

How long should it be?

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It depends on the assignment and the specifications that your teacher gave you.

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How do I compare two poems?

Community Answer

When comparing poems, you should look into things particular to poems: figurative language, linguistic devices, rhyme, meter, themes and tone and mood. Compare and contrast all of these and see if any interesting similarities or differences pop up. If it is relevant to your arguments, you could also give some context regarding to the writers of the poems.

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How do I choose a topic for my compare and contrast essay?

Community Answer

You should choose something you like to do. For example, if you like to shoot, you could compare trap shooting vs. skeet. If you like to sew, you could compare two different brands of sewing machines, and if you like to play basketball, compare the rules between girls' and boys' basketball.

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How do I compare and contrast character and personality in an essay?

Community Answer

You have to choose two characters. The first step is to write a character comparison to determine characters you want to compare. And then you have to describe the characters, identify similarities and differences.

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