Jen

Hello,
I am writing a compare/contrast essay. When you write this type of essay, do you compare two subjects or contrast two subjects? Or are you supposed to compare and contrast the two subjects?

Thanks

Capulet

That's really all in what you've been assigned, and how your essay plays out.

Are you looking to contrast two items, in order to explain both in greater detail through their differences? You could potentially be showing similarities between the two to create a link.

Contrast

"Due to the differences in technology, it's availability, and the differing styles of warfare World War II was an incredibly more terrifying war."

Comparison

"Emotions such as greed, jealousy, and fervent nationalistic pride were the causes of both World War I and II."

With a little more information on your essay topic and leeway of thesis, maybe I could help suggest a route. (I won't write it for you though )

__________________
It's not opression when you are protecting the voice of the majority.

-Shawn

Jen

Thanks for responding. I am writing about the midwest and the westcoast. My main topics are people/culture, scenery, weather/climate ect. I started writing about the differences between the two. But then I starting wondering if I am supposed to compare the two regions also.

Capulet

One of the key issues with writing an essay is providing sufficient information to a narrow enough scope. If she's left you a broad topic such as "compare and contrast the east coast to the mid-west" then you'll almost certainly have to narrow that scope down.

If you think you have enough material with people/culture, scenery, and weather/climate then go with that. If you feel you need to add more to complete your essay than do so. Keep in mind any word count min/max you might have.

"Formula" essays usually have an intro/thesis, three supporting points, and a conclusion summing up the previous entries. I find formula essays to be dry and an uninviting read, but they're pretty safe. The key points to pull from the formula is that your thesis should be tight and specify the boundaries of your essay, your points should all support your point and show individual relevance (preferably supporting each other), and you should never introduce new material (though you can make conclusions) in the closing of your essay.

That being said, if you think there are differences in your regions that supports your thesis add them in.

__________________
It's not opression when you are protecting the voice of the majority.

-Shawn

Jen

I appreciate the information. I have been writing it all day. I'm just finishing it up. Thanks

Capulet

If you want to post it, I'd be willing to give it a look and provide any warranted advice?

__________________
It's not opression when you are protecting the voice of the majority.

-Shawn

Jen

All right, when I finish up I will post it. Thanks.