STRUCTURE A FLAWLESS COMPARATIVE ESSAY

Writing a comparative essay is like a puzzle; if you take one wrong step, the whole structure will be shattered. In this essay, we compare two or more subjects to analyse the similarities or differences between them to show understanding. In short, we compare two or more things to make clear points. It helps to create an argument that reveals a deeper understanding of both subjects. We can compare two books, theories, events, or ideas for this essay. Once you know about comparative writing, you will know how to write down your ideas, sharpen your ability of critical thinking, and write effectively.

In this article, we will discuss the structure of a comparative essay, two main organisational methods which will make your writing more prominent. At the end, we will discuss about comparative analysis template. 

COMPARATIVE ESSAY

In a comparative essay, we compare and contrast the differences or similarities between two topics. These topics can be two literary works, events from history, theories, or even artworks. It is not only about writing similarities or differences, but it is about making a point through which we can come to know what these comparisons notify us. 

STRUCTURE OF COMPARATIVE ESSAY

Structure is the most important thing which is noticed when you write down something. It does not matter if your content is 10 out of 10, but your paragraphs are not organised properly. If each paragraph is different from the other and does not link with the other, the reader will immediately lose interest while reading. Following a proper structure will make your idea logical and develop the interest of the reader. A proper structure consists of three tasks: clarify your argument, balance both subjects, and analyse the comparison that it implies. 

To follow such a structure, you need a strong analysis framework. This means you need to choose between the most commonly used structures, which are the Block method and the Point-to-point method.

BLOCK METHOD

This is also known as the subject-by-subject method. In this method, we discuss the points of one topic first, and then we discuss the same points of the second topic. We usually discuss each subject in a separate block. There is a proper structure of the block method, which is:

• Introduction
• First topic section
• Transitional paragraph
• Second topic section
• Conclusion

Firstly, we need to introduce both topics. Then, in the first topic section, we will discuss the main points of one topic. In the transitional paragraph, we will efficiently move from the first topic to the second topic. In the second topic section, we will discuss the same points of the second topic which we discussed for the first topic for comparison. In the end, we will provide a conclusion in which we will provide the final thought based on the comparison of both topics.

WHY IS IT USED?

It is mostly used when the writer wants to write good essay where the swapping between the subjects is necessary to focus on the details of both subjects. It is helpful when the subjects are complex and we have to explain the first subject deeply before moving towards the next subject. It is helpful for beginners as it will make their work easy. 

WHEN TO USE?

This method is used when the topic is difficult, and the explanation is important before we do the comparison. It is used when we want to highlight the differences. It can also be used when we write short essays in which clarity is important. 

TIPS

The following are some tips for the block method:

• Keep each block well-organised according to logical order
• Use of strong transitional words between the blocks will make your writing more prominent.
• Avoid writing unequal paragraphs.
• End the essay with a strong conclusions.

BENEFITS

There are many benefits of the block method, such as it is simple, easy for beginners to organise their ideas, and it helps to understand the topic in depth. While writing, we need to keep in check the structure of the method so that the paragraphs can be linked with each other, and does not look repetitive.

POINT-BY-POINT METHOD

This method is also known as the alternating method. Unlike the block method, in this method each paragraph focuses on the comparison of a single point of both subjects within the paragraph. Each paragraph discusses the different main points of both subjects, which means that each main point is discussed as a separate section for the comparison of both subjects. It does not discuss the subjects separately in different paragraphs. The structure of the point-by-point method is:

• Introduction
• Paragraph 1
• Paragraph 2
• Paragraph 3 (it will depend on how many points we want to discuss)
• Conclusion 

WHY IS IT USED?

It is used so that readers can see the similarities and differences of the subjects side by side. It is analytical because it will force the writer to explain each comparison and make it clear. It also keeps the ideas organised. 

WHEN TO USE?

This method is used when we want to emphasise the points between two subjects, and also when the comparisons of both subjects are interdependent to maintain clarity.

TIPS

The following are some tips for this method:

• The use of linking words will make our flow of writing smooth.
• By maintaining the balance, we can pay equal attention to both subjects.

BENEFITS

The benefits of this method are that it engages the reader through the comparison, and it also demonstrates analytically. It creates a clear and organised way of comparison between the subjects. 

FRAMEWORK FOR COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS

We cannot write anything without planning. For the comparative analysis, the first thing we need to do is planning, that how both subjects can be compared for writing the analysis. The first step will be to identify the basis of comparison of two subjects, which are the things that are common and why both subjects are being compared. Then you should plan what the area of your main focus, whether you are focusing on similarities or differences. Then you should create a thesis, which is the central argument. Your thesis should reflect your understanding, not just your observation. After the thesis part, select the correct method according to which you will be doing the analysis, the block method or the point-by-point method. 

LINKING WORDS

Linking words are also called Transitional words or Connectors. They guide the reader to view your idea and understand the unclear points between the two subjects, crystal clear like water. Without using linking words, the comparison will make the reader because the ideas will look unorganised. For the comparison and contrast, we should use the words that create a flow in our writing while being on the track for a smooth transition of the paragraphs. For instance, for similarities we can use words; similarly, likewise, just as, in the same way, etc. For indicating the comparison, we use words; however, on the other hand, in comparison to, however, while, etc. 

TIPS

The following are some tips to use linking words properly in your writing.

• Do not use linking words again and again.
• Use a proper structure that relies on linking words, such as the point-by-point method.
• Choose the linking words accurately which actually match the idea.
• Try not to repeat any linking word more than three times, use the same linking word per two to three paragraphs. 

MISTAKES TO AVOID

To make our analysis clear and attract the reader’s attention, the following are some mistakes that we should avoid during our analysis

• Do the comparison between two subjects instead of writing them separately.
• Create a thesis that clearly focuses on the main idea of the comparison.
• Do not claim without any evidence; use examples and references to support your claim.
• Do not only write down the similarities and differences of the subjects, but also explain their importance.
• Use proper linking words to avoid poor transitions of paragraphs.
• Avoid paying attention to one subject more than the other. Balance both of the subjects equally. 
• Do not start with random points and keep repeating the ideas. Use a proper structure for the analysis. 
• Do not ignore the conclusion part. Create a strong conclusion part by summarizing the main points of the analysis.

CONCLUSION

Writing a comparative essay is not about only listing the similarities and differences of the subjects but it is about writing something informative and meaningful. It enhances the capability of our thinking by making it our thinking sharp. It helps the reader to understand the subject more deeply and easily. Comparative essay helps us in critical thinking; it helps us in understanding the subject deeply while highlighting the strengths and weakness of the subject. These skills are further used in blogging, academics, and many more according to daily life.Keep in mind the main points of how to write a comparative essay and avoid the common mistakes to make your writing more impressive. You can improve your writing by practising, as practice makes perfect. Best of luck with your future writing!

Written by: Ansa Ishtiaq