Outline for Compare-and-Contrast Essay – The Methods

There are two main methods for creating a compare-and-contrast essay outline: the block method and the point-by-point method. Each of these methods has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice depends on your preferences and the requirements of your assignment.

Block Method

The block method is also known as the subject-by-subject or the whole-to-whole method. In this structure, you first discuss all the aspects of one subject or object, then move on to the other subject or object and discuss all its aspects. The block method is useful when the subjects being compared are complex and have many similarities and differences. Outline Template: I. Introduction A. General statement about the subjects being compared B. Thesis statement II. Body Paragraph 1: Subject A A. Aspect 1 B. Aspect 2 C. Aspect 3 III. Body Paragraph 2: Subject B A. Aspect 1 B. Aspect 2 C. Aspect 3 IV. Conclusion A. Restate thesis statement B. Summarize the main points C. Final thoughts or recommendations

Point-by-Point Structure

The point-by-point structure is also known as the alternating or back-and-forth method. In this structure, you compare and contrast each aspect of both subjects or objects in each paragraph. The point-by-point structure is useful when the subjects being compared have a lot of similarities and differences. Outline Template: I. Introduction A. General statement about the subjects being compared; specify your theme B. Thesis statement II. Body Paragraph 1: Aspect 1 A. Subject A B. Subject B III. Body Paragraph 2: Aspect 2 A. Subject A B. Subject B IV. Body Paragraph 3: Aspect 3 A. Subject A B. Subject B V. Conclusion A. Restate thesis statement B. Summarize the main points C. Final thoughts or recommendations Creating a well-structured outline for a compare and contrast essay can be achieved by using either of the two patterns described. If you encounter any challenges in following the pattern or you don’t know how to conclude an essay, you can seek guidance from the experienced professionals at PenMyPaper. Their expertise in writing various types of essays on diverse topics can prove invaluable in your essay-writing endeavors.