Topic Cat people versus dog people , and use comparison and contrast as a way of clarifying a problem, pointing out something important, or arriving at a decision or judgment about your subject.

Here is a step-by-step approach that usually generates good results:

1.  After you have chosen your two-part topic, plan your thesis statement.  This should focus on why you are writing about the topic you’ve chosen.  This is your purpose for the essay.

2.  List all your ideas for points that could be compared or contrasted, then choose four or five of the most important/interesting to write about.

3.  Be clear about the advantages of the point-to-point or the block method for your chosen topic.  A combination of the two methods is certainly possible, but again, be clear about the advantages of your methodology for comparing and contrasting.

4.  Write at least one complete sentence for each of the points you have chosen from your list.

5. Having written a first draft, now write a concluding statement that summarizes the main points you are comparing/contrasting, that makes a judgment or prediction, or emphasizes what you believe is the most important point or points you have discussed..

Anticipate a paper of three full pages.

Important:  Comparing and contrasting is done for a reason.  Be specific in a thesis statement about why you are comparing and contrasting, what it is that you wish to point out about your subject, or clarify or decide about for yourself or others.  Use specific facts, data, examples and sensory details as you proceed in the essay.