How to write a compare and contrast essay (B1+)

How to write a compare and contrast essay

Exercise 1

Choose the correct expression to complete each sentence.

How to write a compare and contrast essay

In this lesson, you will learn how to write a clear and well-organised compare and contrast essay. You will compare two things by describing their similarities and differences, using simple but effective language and a clear structure.

You will also learn how to organise your ideas into paragraphs and support them with reasons and examples.

Planning your writing

Before you start writing, think about the two things you want to compare.

Choose 2–3 features (for example: speed, comfort, cost).

Make short notes:

Use your notes to organise your ideas before writing.

Structure of a compare and contrast essay

Paragraph 1 – Introduction

• Introduce the two things you are comparing.
• Give a general idea of how they are similar or different.
• Optionally, mention the main features you will compare (e.g. speed, comfort, cost).

Paragraph 2 – First feature

• Start by introducing the first feature, such as speed or cost.
• Compare both things and explain how they are similar or different in that area.
• Use contrast words like while, whereas, however or unlike.
• You can also give reasons or examples.

Paragraph 3 – Second feature

• Introduce another feature (for example, comfort or cost).
• Compare both things and explain how they are similar or different.
• Use contrast words like while, whereas, however or unlike.
• You can also give reasons or examples.

Paragraph 4 – Conclusion

• Summarise the main differences.
• Give your opinion.
• Say which one you prefer and explain why.

Useful language

Introducing features

We can use these expressions to introduce the feature we want to compare:

• In terms of speed, planes are much faster than trains.
• When it comes to comfort, trains are usually more comfortable.
• As for cost, trains are often cheaper than planes.

Comparing and contrasting

We can use these expressions to compare two things and show similarities or differences:

• Planes are faster than trains.
• Trains are more comfortable than planes.
• Planes are less convenient than trains for short trips.
• Trains are not as expensive as planes.
• Unlike planes, trains usually offer more space.
• While planes are faster, trains are more relaxing.
• Planes are faster, whereas trains are more comfortable.
• Planes are fast. However, they can be stressful.
• Although trains are slower, they are more comfortable.
• In contrast to living in a city, living in the countryside is much quieter.
• Living in a city is exciting. On the other hand, it can be stressful.

Giving reasons and examples

We can use these expressions to explain our ideas more clearly:

• Trains are more convenient because you don’t need to go to the airport.
• Since train stations are usually in city centres, travelling is often easier.
• Planes are much faster, so they are better for long journeys.
• For example/For instance, you can move around more easily on a train.
• In addition, trains often allow you to take more luggage.

Giving your opinion

We can use these expressions to say what we think or prefer:

• Personally, I prefer travelling by train.
• In my opinion, trains are a better option for short journeys.
• I would rather travel by train than by plane.
• I find train journeys more relaxing and less stressful.

Grammar review

Pretty, rather, quite, fairly

We use modifiers to make adjectives stronger or weaker:

• Trains are quite comfortable, but rather slow.

Both / Neither / Either

We use these to talk about two things:

• Both planes and trains are convenient.
• Neither is perfect.

Would rather / Would prefer

We use these to talk about preferences:

• I’d rather take the train.
• I’d prefer to fly for long distances.

Sample essay

Now read the complete essay. Notice how the writer introduces each feature, compares both options, and gives an opinion in the conclusion.