compare and contrast essay on radiology

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A comprehensive guide to crafting a successful comparison essay.

Comparison essays are a common assignment in academic settings, requiring students to analyze and contrast two or more subjects, concepts, or ideas. Writing a comparison essay can be challenging, but with the right approach and guidance, you can craft a compelling and informative piece of writing.

In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with valuable tips and examples to help you master the art of comparison essay writing. Whether you’re comparing two literary works, historical events, scientific theories, or any other topics, this guide will equip you with the tools and strategies needed to create a well-structured and persuasive essay.

From choosing a suitable topic and developing a strong thesis statement to organizing your arguments and incorporating effective evidence, this guide will walk you through each step of the writing process. By following the advice and examples provided here, you’ll be able to produce a top-notch comparison essay that showcases your analytical skills and critical thinking abilities.

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into writing a comparison essay, it’s essential to understand the basics of comparison writing. A comparison essay, also known as a comparative essay, requires you to analyze two or more subjects by highlighting their similarities and differences. This type of essay aims to show how these subjects are similar or different in various aspects.

When writing a comparison essay, you should have a clear thesis statement that identifies the subjects you are comparing and the main points of comparison. It’s essential to structure your essay effectively by organizing your ideas logically. You can use different methods of organization, such as the block method or point-by-point method, to present your comparisons.

Additionally, make sure to include evidence and examples to support your comparisons. Use specific details and examples to strengthen your arguments and clarify the similarities and differences between the subjects. Lastly, remember to provide a strong conclusion that summarizes your main points and reinforces the significance of your comparison.

Choosing a Topic for Comparison Essay

When selecting a topic for your comparison essay, it’s essential to choose two subjects that have some similarities and differences to explore. You can compare two books, two movies, two historical figures, two theories, or any other pair of related subjects.

Consider selecting topics that interest you or that you are familiar with to make the writing process more engaging and manageable. Additionally, ensure that the subjects you choose are suitable for comparison and have enough material for analysis.

It’s also helpful to brainstorm ideas and create a list of potential topics before making a final decision. Once you have a few options in mind, evaluate them based on the relevance of the comparison, the availability of credible sources, and your own interest in the subjects.

Remember that a well-chosen topic is one of the keys to writing a successful comparison essay, so take your time to select subjects that will allow you to explore meaningful connections and differences in a compelling way.

Finding the Right Pairing

When writing a comparison essay, it’s crucial to find the right pairing of subjects to compare. Choose subjects that have enough similarities and differences to make a meaningful comparison. Consider the audience and purpose of your essay to determine what pairing will be most effective.

Look for subjects that you are passionate about or have a deep understanding of. This will make the writing process easier and more engaging. Additionally, consider choosing subjects that are relevant and timely, as this will make your essay more interesting to readers.

Don’t be afraid to think outside the box when finding the right pairing. Sometimes unexpected combinations can lead to the most compelling comparisons. Conduct thorough research on both subjects to ensure you have enough material to work with and present a balanced comparison.

Structuring Your Comparison Essay

When writing a comparison essay, it is essential to organize your ideas in a clear and logical manner. One effective way to structure your essay is to use a point-by-point comparison or a block comparison format.

Whichever format you choose, make sure to introduce your subjects, present your points of comparison, provide evidence or examples to support your comparisons, and conclude by summarizing the main points and highlighting the significance of your comparison.

Creating a Clear Outline

Before you start writing your comparison essay, it’s essential to create a clear outline. An outline serves as a roadmap that helps you stay organized and focused throughout the writing process. Here are some steps to create an effective outline:

1. Identify the subjects of comparison: Start by determining the two subjects you will be comparing in your essay. Make sure they have enough similarities and differences to make a meaningful comparison.

2. Brainstorm key points: Once you have chosen the subjects, brainstorm the key points you want to compare and contrast. These could include characteristics, features, themes, or arguments related to each subject.

3. Organize your points: Arrange your key points in a logical order. You can choose to compare similar points side by side or alternate between the two subjects to highlight differences.

4. Develop a thesis statement: Based on your key points, develop a clear thesis statement that states the main purpose of your comparison essay. This statement should guide the rest of your writing and provide a clear direction for your argument.

5. Create a structure: Divide your essay into introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Each section should serve a specific purpose and contribute to the overall coherence of your essay.

By creating a clear outline, you can ensure that your comparison essay flows smoothly and effectively communicates your ideas to the reader.

Engaging the Reader

When writing a comparison essay, it is crucial to engage the reader right from the beginning. You want to hook their attention and make them want to keep reading. Here are some tips to engage your reader:

• Start with a strong opening statement or question that entices the reader to continue reading.
• Use vivid language and descriptive imagery to paint a clear picture in the reader’s mind.
• Provide interesting facts or statistics that pique the reader’s curiosity.
• Create a compelling thesis statement that outlines the purpose of your comparison essay.

By engaging the reader from the start, you set the stage for a successful and impactful comparison essay that keeps the reader engaged until the very end.

Point-by-Point vs Block Method

When writing a comparison essay, you have two main options for structuring your content: the point-by-point method and the block method. Each method has its own advantages and may be more suitable depending on the type of comparison you are making.

• Point-by-Point Method: This method involves discussing one point of comparison at a time between the two subjects. You will go back and forth between the subjects, highlighting similarities and differences for each point. This method allows for a more detailed and nuanced analysis of the subjects.
• Block Method: In contrast, the block method involves discussing all the points related to one subject first, followed by all the points related to the second subject. This method provides a more straightforward and organized comparison but may not delve as deeply into the individual points of comparison.

Ultimately, the choice between the point-by-point and block methods depends on the complexity of your comparison and the level of detail you want to explore. Experiment with both methods to see which one best suits your writing style and the specific requirements of your comparison essay.

Selecting the Best Approach

When it comes to writing a comparison essay, selecting the best approach is crucial to ensure a successful and effective comparison. There are several approaches you can take when comparing two subjects, including the block method and the point-by-point method.

The block method: This approach involves discussing all the similarities and differences of one subject first, followed by a thorough discussion of the second subject. This method is useful when the two subjects being compared are quite different or when the reader may not be familiar with one of the subjects.

The point-by-point method: This approach involves alternating between discussing the similarities and differences of the two subjects in each paragraph. This method allows for a more in-depth comparison of specific points and is often preferred when the two subjects have many similarities and differences.

Before selecting an approach, consider the nature of the subjects being compared and the purpose of your comparison essay. Choose the approach that will best serve your purpose and allow for a clear, organized, and engaging comparison.

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Digital Radiography versus Computed Radiography

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Both computed radiography (CR) and digital radiography (DR) require the use of digital technologies which rely on computer networks and high-bandwidth web facilities.

DR uses flat panel detectors based on direct or indirect conversion of X-rays to charge, which is then processed to produce a digital image.

CR uses cassette-based phosphor storage plates (PSP), which are then scanned by the computerized system into a digital format for image processing, archiving, and presentation. However, with DR, the whole procedure is digitized from X-ray detection onward.

Advantages of CR

• CR is the first step towards adopting digital imaging technology in many imaging centers because of the low cost required for initial installation.
• The system is compatible with most existing conventional systems, whereas DR systems come in an expensive package, and are not compatible with existing X-ray devices.
• CR can use cassettes of multiple sizes, which means the detector size can be selected to match the procedure and to increase the flexibility of positioning, whatever the area of examination.
• Portable X-ray systems can have imaging plate readers incorporated into them to provide rapid bedside radiographic examinations as well as image presentation, for speedy diagnosis.
• Single plate readers are powerful and compact and allow high patient throughput. While one plate is being processed, the next image can be acquired in rapid sequence.

Disadvantages of CR

• CR requires the cassette be removed from the X-ray machine and then placed into a reader. This is a labor-intensive step that requires the technician to leave the patient and work station with each imaging procedure, even if for a short time.
• The PSPs used in CR require longer readout and processing time.
• When single-plate readers are used, overexposures entail additional delay as the old signals are not completely erased very quickly. This means that a new plate cannot be inserted before the old plate is cleared of residual signals.
• PSP detectors are in detection position all the time. This allows them to pick up background radiation and other scattered radiation such as image noise. This is particularly important if the case if they are kept in is in or near an X-ray room.
• Another source of noise is the failure to erase signals from stored plates after more than a day or so. Taking care of multiple PSPs can entail significant labor and therefore cost, to keep inventory, clean cassettes, and assure quality.
• There is a short delay of approximately 1 minute for scanning CR plates. Cassette transfer plus plate scanning may take more time and labor than is convenient in facilities with a high patient workload, even if the machines are near each other. However, modern CR systems use plate readers that are integrated into the X-ray equipment itself, leaving little difference between CR and DR.  In comparison, the DR systems house all components together and do not require any transfer of film or cassette. The time needed to produce a final DR image is 10 seconds or less.
• Image quality - PSP plates used in CR have a lower efficiency of detection compared to DR detectors. Thus, a higher radiation dose is needed to obtain adequate image resolution. However, the development of dual-side readout phosphors, as well as storage phosphors based on cesium bromide structure, has resulted in a better detection efficiency, which can match DR detectors in some cases.

Advantages of DR

• The efficiency of X-ray detection is measured by detective quantum efficiency, DQE, which is about 60%–65% with DR but only 30% with CR. Thus, the use of DR is associated with lower patient exposures because of very low imaging failure rates.
• The high speed of image acquisition is another advantage of DR technology.
• Image quality is excellent with DR whereas CR images are somewhat inferior to film X-ray systems. However, diagnostic accuracy is comparable between CR and film-based systems.
• Whereas the initial cost of CR is lower, DR systems provide high-speed workflow for technologists and speeded-up patient management, which is especially important in outpatient settings where patients need to return to home or work. Less than 1 minute is needed between exposure and image acquisition.
• Portability of DR systems is now being envisaged with the development of wireless (or previously, wired) DR detectors. This removes one of the big obstacles to the use of DR, namely, lack of portability. However, there is a long way to go before DR becomes comparable to CR in this respect. The ability to retrofit existing technology with DR detectors will mark the beginning of serious competition between CR and DR in small-scale imaging setups.

Disadvantages for DR

• The conventional DR systems are not very flexible for taking difficult views. However, newer systems are being designed to offer greater positioning flexibility.
• The initial investment costs are very high, on average up to 5 times that of a good-quality CR setup, including the reader and PSPs. This limits them to settings where return on investment is assured because of high patient throughput.

The following table summarizes the pros and cons of CR and DR:

• appliedradiology.com/.../digital-radiography-the-bottom-line-comparison-of-cr-and-dr-technology
• https://www.slideshare.net/mohitgoel9212/cr-dr-50287860
• https://pubs.rsna.org/doi/full/10.1148/rg.273065075
• www.iaea.org/.../digital-radiography#18

Further Reading

• All Radiography Content
• KUB Radiography
• Computed Tomography of Kidneys, Ureters and Bladder (CT KUB)
• Digital Radiography

Last Updated: Nov 27, 2018

Dr. Liji Thomas

Dr. Liji Thomas is an OB-GYN, who graduated from the Government Medical College, University of Calicut, Kerala, in 2001. Liji practiced as a full-time consultant in obstetrics/gynecology in a private hospital for a few years following her graduation. She has counseled hundreds of patients facing issues from pregnancy-related problems and infertility, and has been in charge of over 2,000 deliveries, striving always to achieve a normal delivery rather than operative.

Please use one of the following formats to cite this article in your essay, paper or report:

Thomas, Liji. (2018, November 27). Digital Radiography versus Computed Radiography. News-Medical. Retrieved on June 10, 2024 from https://www.news-medical.net/health/Digital-Radiography-versus-Computed-Radiography.aspx.

Thomas, Liji. "Digital Radiography versus Computed Radiography". News-Medical . 10 June 2024. <https://www.news-medical.net/health/Digital-Radiography-versus-Computed-Radiography.aspx>.

Thomas, Liji. "Digital Radiography versus Computed Radiography". News-Medical. https://www.news-medical.net/health/Digital-Radiography-versus-Computed-Radiography.aspx. (accessed June 10, 2024).

Thomas, Liji. 2018. Digital Radiography versus Computed Radiography . News-Medical, viewed 10 June 2024, https://www.news-medical.net/health/Digital-Radiography-versus-Computed-Radiography.aspx.

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• Comparing and contrasting in an essay | Tips & examples

Comparing and Contrasting in an Essay | Tips & Examples

Published on August 6, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

Comparing and contrasting is an important skill in academic writing . It involves taking two or more subjects and analyzing the differences and similarities between them.

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Table of contents

When should i compare and contrast, making effective comparisons, comparing and contrasting as a brainstorming tool, structuring your comparisons, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about comparing and contrasting.

Many assignments will invite you to make comparisons quite explicitly, as in these prompts.

• Compare the treatment of the theme of beauty in the poetry of William Wordsworth and John Keats.
• Compare and contrast in-class and distance learning. What are the advantages and disadvantages of each approach?

Some other prompts may not directly ask you to compare and contrast, but present you with a topic where comparing and contrasting could be a good approach.

One way to approach this essay might be to contrast the situation before the Great Depression with the situation during it, to highlight how large a difference it made.

Comparing and contrasting is also used in all kinds of academic contexts where it’s not explicitly prompted. For example, a literature review involves comparing and contrasting different studies on your topic, and an argumentative essay may involve weighing up the pros and cons of different arguments.

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See an example

As the name suggests, comparing and contrasting is about identifying both similarities and differences. You might focus on contrasting quite different subjects or comparing subjects with a lot in common—but there must be some grounds for comparison in the first place.

For example, you might contrast French society before and after the French Revolution; you’d likely find many differences, but there would be a valid basis for comparison. However, if you contrasted pre-revolutionary France with Han-dynasty China, your reader might wonder why you chose to compare these two societies.

This is why it’s important to clarify the point of your comparisons by writing a focused thesis statement . Every element of an essay should serve your central argument in some way. Consider what you’re trying to accomplish with any comparisons you make, and be sure to make this clear to the reader.

Comparing and contrasting can be a useful tool to help organize your thoughts before you begin writing any type of academic text. You might use it to compare different theories and approaches you’ve encountered in your preliminary research, for example.

Let’s say your research involves the competing psychological approaches of behaviorism and cognitive psychology. You might make a table to summarize the key differences between them.

Or say you’re writing about the major global conflicts of the twentieth century. You might visualize the key similarities and differences in a Venn diagram.

These visualizations wouldn’t make it into your actual writing, so they don’t have to be very formal in terms of phrasing or presentation. The point of comparing and contrasting at this stage is to help you organize and shape your ideas to aid you in structuring your arguments.

When comparing and contrasting in an essay, there are two main ways to structure your comparisons: the alternating method and the block method.

The alternating method

In the alternating method, you structure your text according to what aspect you’re comparing. You cover both your subjects side by side in terms of a specific point of comparison. Your text is structured like this:

Mouse over the example paragraph below to see how this approach works.

One challenge teachers face is identifying and assisting students who are struggling without disrupting the rest of the class. In a traditional classroom environment, the teacher can easily identify when a student is struggling based on their demeanor in class or simply by regularly checking on students during exercises. They can then offer assistance quietly during the exercise or discuss it further after class. Meanwhile, in a Zoom-based class, the lack of physical presence makes it more difficult to pay attention to individual students’ responses and notice frustrations, and there is less flexibility to speak with students privately to offer assistance. In this case, therefore, the traditional classroom environment holds the advantage, although it appears likely that aiding students in a virtual classroom environment will become easier as the technology, and teachers’ familiarity with it, improves.

The block method

In the block method, you cover each of the overall subjects you’re comparing in a block. You say everything you have to say about your first subject, then discuss your second subject, making comparisons and contrasts back to the things you’ve already said about the first. Your text is structured like this:

• Point of comparison A
• Point of comparison B

The most commonly cited advantage of distance learning is the flexibility and accessibility it offers. Rather than being required to travel to a specific location every week (and to live near enough to feasibly do so), students can participate from anywhere with an internet connection. This allows not only for a wider geographical spread of students but for the possibility of studying while travelling. However, distance learning presents its own accessibility challenges; not all students have a stable internet connection and a computer or other device with which to participate in online classes, and less technologically literate students and teachers may struggle with the technical aspects of class participation. Furthermore, discomfort and distractions can hinder an individual student’s ability to engage with the class from home, creating divergent learning experiences for different students. Distance learning, then, seems to improve accessibility in some ways while representing a step backwards in others.

Note that these two methods can be combined; these two example paragraphs could both be part of the same essay, but it’s wise to use an essay outline to plan out which approach you’re taking in each paragraph.

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Some essay prompts include the keywords “compare” and/or “contrast.” In these cases, an essay structured around comparing and contrasting is the appropriate response.

Comparing and contrasting is also a useful approach in all kinds of academic writing : You might compare different studies in a literature review , weigh up different arguments in an argumentative essay , or consider different theoretical approaches in a theoretical framework .

Your subjects might be very different or quite similar, but it’s important that there be meaningful grounds for comparison . You can probably describe many differences between a cat and a bicycle, but there isn’t really any connection between them to justify the comparison.

You’ll have to write a thesis statement explaining the central point you want to make in your essay , so be sure to know in advance what connects your subjects and makes them worth comparing.

Comparisons in essays are generally structured in one of two ways:

• The alternating method, where you compare your subjects side by side according to one specific aspect at a time.
• The block method, where you cover each subject separately in its entirety.

It’s also possible to combine both methods, for example by writing a full paragraph on each of your topics and then a final paragraph contrasting the two according to a specific metric.

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Comparing and Contrasting: A Guide to Improve Your Essays

Walter Akolo

Essays that require you to compare and contrast two or more subjects, ideas, places, or items are common.

They call for you to highlight the key similarities (compare) and differences (contrast) between them.

This guide contains all the information you need to become better at writing comparing and contrasting essays.

This includes: how to structure your essay, how to decide on the content, and some examples of essay questions.

Let’s dive in.

What Is Comparing and Contrasting?

Is compare and contrast the same as similarities and differences, what is the purpose of comparing and contrasting, can you compare and contrast any two items, how do you compare and contrast in writing, what are some comparing and contrasting techniques, how do you compare and contrast in college level writing, the four essentials of compare and contrast essays, what can you learn from a compare and contrast essay.

At their most basic, both comparing and contrasting base their evaluation on two or more subjects that share a connection.

The subjects could have similar characteristics, features, or foundations.

But while a comparison discusses the similarities of the two subjects, e.g. a banana and a watermelon are both fruit, contrasting highlights how the subjects or items differ from each other, e.g. a watermelon is around 10 times larger than a banana.

Any question that you are asked in education will have a variety of interesting comparisons and deductions that you can make.

Compare is the same as similarities.

Contrast is the same as differences.

This is because comparing identifies the likeness between two subjects, items, or categories, while contrasting recognizes disparities between them.

When you compare things, you represent them regarding their similarity, but when you contrast things, you define them in reference to their differences.

As a result, if you are asked to discuss the similarities and differences between two subjects, you can take an identical approach to if you are writing a compare and contrast essay.

In writing, the purpose of comparing and contrasting is to highlight subtle but important differences or similarities that might not be immediately obvious.

By illustrating the differences between elements in a similar category, you help heighten readers’ understanding of the subject or topic of discussion.

For instance, you might choose to compare and contrast red wine and white wine by pointing out the subtle differences. One of these differences is that red wine is best served at room temperature while white is best served chilled.

Also, comparing and contrasting helps to make abstract ideas more definite and minimizes the confusion that might exist between two related concepts.

Can Comparing and Contrasting Be Useful Outside of Academia?

Comparing enables you to see the pros and cons, allowing you to have a better understanding of the things under discussion. In an essay, this helps you demonstrate that you understand the nuances of your topic enough to draw meaningful conclusions from them.

Let's use a real-word example to see the benefits. Imagine you're contrasting two dresses you could buy. You might think:

• Dress A is purple, my favorite color, but it has a difficult zip and is practically impossible to match a jacket to.
• Dress B is more expensive but I already have a suitable pair of shoes and jacket and it is easier to move in.

You're linking the qualities of each dress to the context of the decision you're making. This is the same for your essay. Your comparison and contrast points will be in relation to the question you need to answer.

Comparing and contrasting is only a useful technique when applied to two related concepts.

To effectively compare two or more things, they must feature characteristics similar enough to warrant comparison.

In addition to this they must also feature a similarity that generates an interesting discussion. But what do I mean by “interesting” here?

Let’s look at two concepts, the Magna Carta and my third grade poetry competition entry.

They are both text, written on paper by a person so they fulfil the first requirement, they have a similarity. But this comparison clearly would not fulfil the second requirement, you would not be able to draw any interesting conclusions.

However, if we compare the Magna Carta to the Bill of Rights, you would be able to come to some very interesting conclusions concerning the history of world politics.

To write a good compare and contrast essay, it’s best to pick two or more topics that share a meaningful connection .

The aim of the essay would be to show the subtle differences or unforeseen similarities.

By highlighting the distinctions between elements in a similar category you can increase your readers’ understanding.

Alternatively, you could choose to focus on a comparison between two subjects that initially appear unrelated.

The more dissimilar they seem, the more interesting the comparison essay will turn out.

For instance, you could compare and contrast professional rugby players with marathon runners.

Can You Compare and Contrast in an Essay That Does Not Specifically Require It?

As a writer, you can employ comparing and contrasting techniques in your writing, particularly when looking for ideas you can later apply in your argument.

You can do this even when the comparison or contrast is not a requirement for the topic or argument you are presenting. Doing so could enable you to build your evaluation and develop a stronger argument.

Note that the similarities and differences you come up with might not even show up in the final draft.

While the use of compare and contrast can be neutral, you can also use it to highlight one option under discussion. When used this way, you can influence the perceived advantages of your preferred option.

As a writing style, comparing and contrasting can encompass an entire essay. However, it could also appear in some select paragraphs within the essay, where making some comparisons serves to better illustrate a point.

What Should You Do First?

Before you compare two things, always start by deciding on the reason for your comparison, then outline the criteria you will use to compare them.

Words and phrases commonly used for comparison include:

In writing, these words and phrases are called transitions . They help readers to understand or make the connection between sentences, paragraphs, and ideas.

Without transition words writing can feel clumsy and disjointed making it difficult to read. ProWritingAid’s transition report highlights all of a documents transitions and suggests that 25% of any sentences in a piece include a transition.

Sign up for a free ProWritingAid account to use the Transitions Report.

So, how do you form all of this into a coherent essay? It's a good idea to plan first, then decide what your paragraph layout will look like.

Venn diagrams are useful tool to start generating ideas. The, for your essay, you need to choose between going idea by idea and going point by point.

Using a Venn Diagram

A Venn diagram helps you to clearly see the similarities and differences between multiple objects, things, or subjects.

The writing tool comprises two, or more, simple, overlapping circles in which you list down the things that are alike (within the overlapping area) and those that differ (outside the overlapping area).

It’s great for brainstorming ideas and for creating your essay’s outline. You could even use it in an exam setting because it is quick and simple.

Going Subject by Subject

Going subject by subject is a structural choice for your essay.

Start by saying all you have to say on the first subject, then proceed to do the same about the second subject.

Depending on the length of your essay, you can fit the points about each subject into one paragraph or have several sections per each subject, ending with a conclusion.

This method is best for short essays on simple topics. Most university-level essays will go point by point instead.

Going Point by Point

Going point by point, or alternating, is the opposite essay structure from going subject by subject. This is ideal when you want to do more direct comparing and contrasting. It entails discussing one comparison point at a time. It allows you to use a paragraph to talk about how a certain comparing/contrasting point relates to the subjects or items you are discussing.

Alternatively, if you have lots of details about the subject, you might decide to use a paragraph for each point.

An academic compare and contrast essay looks at two or more subjects, ideas, people, or objects, compares their likeness, and contrasts their differences.

It’s an informative essay that provides insights on what is similar and different between the two items.

Depending on the essay’s instructions, you can focus solely on comparing or contrasting, or a combination of the two.

Examples of College Level Compare and Contrast Essay Questions

Here are eleven examples of compare and contrast essay questions that you might encounter at university:

• Archaeology: Compare and contrast the skulls of homo habilis, homo erectus, and homo sapiens.
• Art: Compare and contrast the working styles of any two Neoclassic artists.
• Astrophysics: Compare and contrast the chemical composition of Venus and Neptune.
• Biology: Compare and contrast the theories of Lamarck and Darwin.
• Business: Compare and contrast 2 or more business models within the agricultural industry.
• Creative writing: Compare and contrast free indirect discourse with epistolary styles.
• English Literature: Compare and contrast William Wordsworth with Robert Browning.
• Geography: Compare and contrast the benefit of solar panels with the benefit of wind turbines.
• History: Compare and contrast WWI to WWII with specific reference to the causes and outcomes.
• Medicine: Compare and contrast England’s health service with America’s health service.
• Psychology: Compare and contrast the behaviorist theory with the psychodynamic theory.

So, the key takeaways to keep in mind are:

Have a basis for comparison. The two things need to have enough in common to justify a discussion about their similarities and disparities.

Don’t go back and forth when using the block method. The best way to write your essay is to begin with a paragraph discussing all the facets of the first topic. Then, move on to another paragraph and talk through all the aspects of the second subject.

You can use both alternating and blocking techniques. Combining the two approaches is also an option. You can apply the alternating method in some paragraphs, then switch and use the block method. This method will help you offer a much deeper analysis of the subjects.

Have a reason for comparing the two things. Only select the points of comparison that resonate with your purpose.

Comparing and contrasting are essential analytical skills in academic writing. When your professor issues you with such an essay, their primary goal is to teach you how to:

• Engage in critical thinking
• See and make connections between words or ideas
• Move beyond mere descriptions or summaries to developing interesting analysis
• Get a deeper understanding of the subjects or items under comparison, their key features, and their interrelationships with each other.

Ultimately, your essay should enlighten readers by providing useful information.

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• Writing Tips

Tips for Writing a Compare and Contrast Essay

• 5-minute read
• 19th August 2022

Compare and contrast essays are a specific form of academic essay with unique requirements, so if you’re a student , it’s important that you to know how to write one. Luckily, we’ve pieced together this guide to help you plan, structure, and put together your essay, complete with tips for comparing and contrasting.

Let’s begin.

1. What Is a Compare and Contrast Essay?

As you may have guessed, when writing a compare and contrast essay, you’ll need to do two things:

• Compare the similarities between two or more given subjects.
• Contrast their differences.

Compare and contrast essays are a common essay style because they allow your teacher or lecturer to assess your understanding of two theories, research methods, literary techniques, or other subjects. These subjects are usually related and may sometimes be confused with one another or are in conflict with each other.

By comparing and contrasting the subjects, you can also improve your analysis skills .

Some examples of compare and contrast essay titles include:

Compare and contrast a Shakespearean sonnet with a Petrarchan sonnet. What are the similarities and differences between anabolic and catabolic reactions? How were Nehru’s political beliefs similar to Gandhi’s? How did they differ?

2. Planning a Compare and Contrast Essay

As with any essay, before you begin writing, you should have a plan . In this case, you’ll first need to identify the similarities and differences between your subjects.

You can do this by writing out a list of all the qualities each subject possesses. Then, you can pick out any similar qualities that show up in both lists, and any qualities that are unique to just one of them. If you’re a visual learner, you might want to draw this as a Venn diagram .

Once you have all the similarities and differences prepared, consider which of them will be the most useful to include in your essay. Ask yourself:

• How much can you write about each point?
• What will your conclusion be, and which points support it?
• How will each point fit into your essay’s structure?

To answer that last question, let’s take a look at some ways to structure your essay.

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3. Structuring a Compare and Contrast Essay

Now that you’ve got a plan for your essay, it’s time to organize it. There are three main structures you can follow when writing a compare and contrast essay: 

• The block structure: All of the information about one subject (e.g., Shakespearean sonnets) is presented in the first few paragraphs, followed by the subject it’s being compared and contrasted with (e.g., Petrarchan sonnets).
• The alternating structure: One similarity or difference between both subjects (e.g., rhyme scheme) is explored in one paragraph, followed by a paragraph on another similarity or difference (e.g., use of imagery), and so on.
• The similarities and differences structure: All the similarities between both subjects are presented, followed by the differences.

There are benefits to each of these structures. The block structure, for example, can be easier to write, while the alternating structure presents each similarity and difference clearly, and the similarities and differences structure focuses on those points rather than the subjects themselves. 

So, when deciding which structure to use, consider what would work best for your essay. If you intend to cover each subject in detail, for example, you might want to choose the block structure. 

On the other hand, if you want to emphasize the connections between each subject, the alternating structure might be best. 

Finally, if you want to conclude that the subjects are either overwhelmingly similar or different to each other, the similarities and differences structure may work in your favor.

Whichever structure you follow, though, you’ll need to include a strong introduction and conclusion.

Your introduction should:

• Establish the subjects you will be comparing and contrasting.
• Provide some background about their connection (e.g., “Shakespearean and Petrarchan sonnets are poetic forms common in the 14th to 19th centuries”).
• Explain what you aim to achieve with your essay.

Meanwhile, your conclusion should:

• Summarize the main similarities and differences you have identified.
• Make a point regarding the relationship between your subjects.

4. Things to Remember

Here are some important tips to keep in mind when writing your compare and contrast essay:

• Ensure you are comparing or contrasting the same criteria between each subject. For example, it wouldn’t make sense to compare the line length of a Shakespearean sonnet with the rhyme scheme of a Petrarchan sonnet, as these are two separate categories.
• Always address both subjects of your essay in any introductions, conclusions, and topic sentences.
• Use comparison words and phrases such as “similarly,” “like,” and “in the same way” when comparing subjects.
• Use contrast words and phrases such as “in contrast,” “however,” and “whereas” when contrasting subjects.
• As with any essay, make sure to back up any arguments you make with evidence and credible sources .

Expert Academic Proofreading

Once you’ve written your compare and contrast essay, don’t forget to have it proofread. Our dedicated essay editing team is available 24/7 to help polish your paper. Try us out with a free proofreading and editing sample .

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4.2: Comparison and Contrast Essays

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• Page ID 107769

• Kathryn Crowther et al.
• Georgia Perimeter College via GALILEO Open Learning Materials

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Writing a Comparison-and-Contrast Essay

First, choose whether you want to compare seemingly disparate subjects, contrast seemingly similar subjects, or compare and contrast subjects. Once you have decided on a topic, introduce it with an engaging opening paragraph. Your thesis should come at the end of the introduction, and it should establish the subjects you will compare, contrast, or both as well as state what can be learned from doing so. Be sure to make an argument in your thesis; explain to the reader what’s at stake in analyzing the relationship between your stated subjects.

The body of the essay can be organized in one of two ways: by subject or by individual points. The organizing strategy that you choose will depend on, as always, your audience and your purpose. You may also consider your particular approach to the subjects as well as the nature of the subjects themselves; some subjects might better lend themselves to one structure or the other. Make sure to use comparison and contrast phrases to cue the reader to the ways in which you are analyzing the relationship between the subjects.

After you finish analyzing the subjects, write a conclusion that summarizes the main points of the essay and reinforces your thesis. This conclusion is the “and so” statement for your essay, giving you the place to offer a judgment based on the examination you have just offered.

Sample Comparison-and-Contrast Essays

A South African Storm

By Allison Howard – Peace Corps Volunteer: South Africa (2003-2005)

It’s a Saturday afternoon in January in South Africa. When I begin the 45–minute walk to the shops for groceries, I can hear thunder cracking in the distance up the mountain in Mageobaskloof. But at 4 p.m. the sky is still light and bright and I am sure—famous last words—I will be fine without an umbrella.

Just the basics: eggs, bread, Diet Coke in a bag slung into the crook of my elbow. Halfway from town, two black South African women—domestic workers in the homes of white Afrikaner families—stop me with wide smiles. They know me; I’m the only white person in town who walks everywhere, as they do. They chatter quickly in northern Sotho: “Missus, you must go fast. Pula e tla na! The rain, it comes!” They like me, and it feels very important to me that they do.“Yebo, yebo, mma,” I say—Yes, it’s true—and I hurry along in flip-flops, quickening my pace, feeling good about our brief but neighborly conversation. These are Venda women.

My black South African friends tell me it’s easy to tell a Venda from a Shangaan from a Xhosa from a Pedi. “These ones from Venda, they have wide across the nose and high in the cheekbones,” they say. But I don’t see it; I’m years away from being able to distinguish the nuances of ethnicity. Today, I know these women are Vendas simply because of their clothing: bright stripes of green and yellow and black fabric tied at one shoulder and hanging quite like a sack around their bodies. They’ve already extended a kindness to me by speaking in northern Sotho. It’s not their language but they know I don’t speak a word of Afrikaans (though they don’t understand why; Afrikaans is the language of white people). They know I struggle with Sotho and they’re trying to help me learn. So they speak Sotho to me and they’re delighted and amused by my fumbling responses. And I am, quite simply, delighted by their delight.

The Venda ladies are right: the rain, it comes. Lightly at first, and by habit I begin trotting to hurry my way home. Just a little rain at first and there are plenty of us out in it. I can see others up ahead on the street and others still just leaving the shops to get back before the real rain begins.

The people who are walking along this swath of tar road are black. Black people don’t live in this neighborhood—or in my town at all, for the most part. They work and board here as domestic workers, nannies, gardeners. Their families live in black townships and rural villages—some just outside of my town; others far away, in places like Venda.

Today, we’re walking together in the rain, and I’m quickening my pace because—after all, it’s raining. That’s what you do in the rain. And even though it’s coming down noticeably harder, it’s 80 degrees and I’m not cold, I’m just wet. My hair is stuck to my forehead and my T-shirt is soaked … and I’m the only one running for cover. And I think: So what? It’s just water and in the middle of the January summer, it’s warm, refreshing water. Why run? Why do we run from the rain?

In my life back in the United States, I might run because I was carrying a leather handbag, or because I wore an outfit that shouldn’t get wet. I would run because rain dishevels and messes things up. Mostly though, we run because we just do; it’s a habit. I’ve done it a hundred times: running to my car or the subway station with a newspaper sheltering my head. I have never not quickened my pace in the rain until today.

It took all of my 27 years and a move to Africa, where I don’t have a leather handbag to shelter or a pretty outfit to protect. I’m wearing an old cotton skirt and a T-shirt, and I’m drenched, and I love it. I learn things here in the most ordinary circumstances. And I feel like a smarter, better woman today because I got groceries in the rain.

But on the long walk home, positively soaked and smiling like a fool, I notice a car pulling over and a man yelling in Afrikaans to get in, get in. I look in the direction I’ve come from and several meters behind me is a woman with a baby tied to her back and an elderly man carrying bags, leading a young boy by the hand. On the road ahead, a woman about my age carries a parcel wrapped in plastic, balanced precariously on her head. There are maybe 20 people walking with me in my reverie of rain and they are black. And the man in the car is white and he’s gesturing frantically for me to get in. Why me? Why not the others? Because I’m white and it’s about race. Everything is about race here.

This man in the car is trying to do something kind and neighborly. He wants to help me and his gesture is right, but his instincts are so wrong. How do you resent someone who is, for no benefit of his own, trying to help? But I do. I resent him and I resent the world he lives in that taught him such selective kindness. This whole event unravels in a few seconds’ time. He’s leaned over and opened the car door, urging me in … and I get in. And we speed past my fellow walkers and he drops me at my doorstep before I have time to think of anything besides giving him directions.

It feels like a mistake because I’m ashamed to think what the Venda women would have felt if he’d ignored them and they had watched me climb into that car. In some ways, the whole episode seems absurd. I’m not going to atone for 400 years of South African history by walking with black people in the rain. If I’d refused his ride, he wouldn’t have thought anything besides the fact that I was certifiably crazy. That’s the thing about being here: I’m not going to change anything. But I believe it matters in some infinitesimal way that people like the Venda women, and the dozens of people who may walk alongside me on any given day, know that I’m there. In black South African culture it is polite to greet every person you pass. That’s what they do, so I do it, too. On the occasional morning, someone might greet me as “sesi,” sister. I have to believe that matters; I know it matters to me.

I was disappointed in myself for getting into the car because I acted according to the same habit that makes us think rain an inconvenience. Just as we run from the rain, I hopped into that car because I’m supposed to. Conventionally, it makes sense. But convention compels us to do so many things that don’t make any sense at all. Convention misinforms our instincts. And in a larger sense, it is convention that propels Afrikaner culture anachronistically into the future. Ten years after the supposed end of apartheid, I’m living in a world of institutionalized racism. Convention becomes institution—and it’s oppressive and it’s unjust. I know that if I’m going to make it here for two more years, I need to walk in the rain. It’s a small, wasted gesture, but it’s an uncorrupted instinct that makes me feel human.

So much about living here feels like that fraction of a second when the Afrikaner man was appealing to my conventional sensibilities and the people on the street were appealing to my human instincts. It may feel unnatural to reject those sensibilities just as, at first, it feels unnatural to walk in the rain. But if I lose a hold on my instincts here, I’ll fail myself and I’ll fail to achieve those tiny things that matter so much. It’s simple and it’s small; and it’s everything. Gandhi said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” Indeed. Let it rain.

Comparing and Contrasting London and Washington, DC

Both Washington, DC, and London are capital cities of English-speaking countries, and yet they offer vastly different experiences to their residents and visitors. Comparing and contrasting the two cities based on their history, their culture, and their residents show how different and similar the two are.

Both cities are rich in world and national history, though they developed on very different time lines. London, for example, has a history that dates back over two thousand years. It was part of the Roman Empire and known by the similar name, Londinium. It was not only one of the northernmost points of the Roman Empire but also the epicenter of the British Empire where it held significant global influence from the early sixteenth century on through the early twentieth century. Washington, DC, on the other hand, has only formally existed since the late eighteenth century. Though Native Americans inhabited the land several thousand years earlier, and settlers inhabited the land as early as the sixteenth century, the city did not become the capital of the United States until the 1790s. From that point onward to today, however, Washington, DC, has increasingly maintained significant global influence. Even though both cities have different histories, they have both held, and continue to hold, significant social influence in the economic and cultural global spheres.

Both Washington, DC, and London offer a wide array of museums that harbor many of the world’s most prized treasures. While Washington, DC, has the National Gallery of Art and several other Smithsonian galleries, London’s art scene and galleries have a definite edge in this category. From the Tate Modern to the British National Gallery, London’s art ranks among the world’s best. This difference and advantage has much to do with London and Britain’s historical depth compared to that of the United States. London has a much richer past than Washington, DC, and consequently has a lot more material to pull from when arranging its collections. Both cities have thriving theater districts, but again, London wins this comparison, too, both in quantity and quality of theater choices. With regard to other cultural places like restaurants, pubs, and bars, both cities are very comparable. Both have a wide selection of expensive, elegant restaurants as well as a similar amount of global and national chains. While London may be better known for its pubs and taste in beer, DC offers a different bar-going experience. With clubs and pubs that tend to stay open later than their British counterparts, the DC night life tend to be less reserved overall.

Both cities also share and differ in cultural diversity and cost of living. Both cities share a very expensive cost of living—both in terms of housing and shopping. A downtown one-bedroom apartment in DC can easily cost $1,800 per month, and a similar “flat” in London may double that amount. These high costs create socioeconomic disparity among the residents. Although both cities’ residents are predominantly wealthy, both have a significantly large population of poor and homeless. Perhaps the most significant difference between the resident demographics is the racial makeup. Washington, DC, is a “minority majority” city, which means the majority of its citizens are races other than white. In 2009, according to the US Census, 55 percent of DC residents were classified as “Black or African American” and 35 percent of its residents were classified as “white.” London, by contrast, has very few minorities—in 2006, 70 percent of its population was “white,” while only 10 percent was “black.” The racial demographic differences between the cities is drastic.

Even though Washington, DC, and London are major capital cities of English-speaking countries in the Western world, they have many differences along with their similarities. They have vastly different histories, art cultures, and racial demographics, but they remain similar in their cost of living and socioeconomic disparity.

Sample Student Outline

In “Batman: A Hero for Any Time,” Jacob Gallman-Dreiling compares the traditional portrayal of the superhero Batman with the modern version. As you read, look for the comparison and contrast phrases that the author uses to help the reader understand the argument he is making. What kind of organizational structure does the essay follow?

Jacob Gallman-Dreiling

English 1101

16 March 2013

Thesis : Although the framework of the Batman story always remains the same, the character has been re-imagined over time to suit the changing expectations of a hero through his characterization as well as that of those who surround him, both friends and foes.

• Bruce Wayne’s parents are murdered in front of him.
• Bruce Wayne grows up to inherit his parents’ fortune.
• Batman fights crime with the help of Commissioner Gordon and others.
• Batman employs an arsenal of non-lethal weapons to aid him.
• Characters could not use concealed weapons.
• Stories required “morals.”
• Stories could not use kidnapping or excessive violence.
• Stories incorporated elements of science fiction.
• Stories had limitations on the portrayal of female characters.
• Batman’s suits often had ridiculous properties he conveniently prepared for the upcoming mission.
• Batman is haunted by the death of his parents.
• Batman has become a skilled detective and fighter.
• Batman’s suit is more armor than spandex.
• Batman is haunted by his mistakes.
• Batman and Commissioner Gordon conspire to hide the truth about Harvey Dent from the people of Gotham.
• Characters like Ace the Bat-Hound, Bat-Mice, and Batwoman were created to draw in children.
• Issues were built around a villain-of-the-week.
• Dick Grayson grows up and goes to college.
• Batgirl is paralyzed by the Joker.
• Joker is given several conflicting backstories explaining his psychosis.
• Catwoman has changed from a harmless cat-burglar to a reformed prostitute.

Sample Student Essay

Batman: A Hero for Any Time

Few ideas in this world are as timeless as that of a superhero. The ancient Greeks had Odysseus and Hercules. The British have Sherlock Holmes and Allan Quatermain. The Americans developed the modern concept of the superhero with characters like Superman and Spider-Man and created elaborate stories for the origin of their powers, much like the Greeks used when creating their heroes. While the world of superheroes was originally a white man’s club, the creation of Wonder Woman ushered in a new era of diversity. Now men, women, people of color, even those of differing sexual orientations are represented among the ranks of those who fight against evil. Though teams of superheroes like the Justice League of America and the XMen have enduring popularity, few superheroes have captured the imagination like Batman. Created in 1939 by Bob Kane and Bill Finger, a boy orphaned by violence grows to become the Caped Crusader, avenger of the fictional of Gotham. This comic book hero has spurred film, radio, and television adaptations, has spawned action figures and video games, and has maintained an uninterrupted comic book publication, something few other superhero titles can boast. Although the framework of the Batman story always remains the same, the character has been re-imagined over time to suit the changing expectations of a hero through his characterization as well as through the portrayal of those who surround him, both friends and foes.

The basic framework of the Batman story has stayed the same since his debut in May, 1939. At the age of eight, Bruce Wayne, the son of wealthy socialites, witnesses his parents’ murder at the hands of a desperate mugger and swears to avenge their deaths by waging war on all criminals. He grows up to inherit their fortune and the family company, using the money to fund charitable efforts and to reside in stately Wayne Manor. By night, he becomes Batman, ridding the Gotham City streets of menacing foes like the Joker, the Riddler, and Two-Face. He is aided in his fight by his sidekick Robin, Batgirl, and Commissioner Gordon, as well as his butler Alfred Pennyworth. His most enduring love interest is Selina Kyle, who is also known as the notorious cat-burglar, Catwoman. Batman eschews lethal weaponry such as guns, instead preferring to outwit his foes using his intellect to bring them to justice.

While the key details of Batman’s backstory have remained unchanged for almost seventy-five years, his characterization has changed to suit the ever-evolving expectations of a superhero. When the character debuted in the Silver Age of comics—the decades between 1950 and 1970—he was a sunny, pulpy character: he was billed as the “World’s Greatest Detective” and performed as such, while reflecting what is considered to be a more innocent time. His villains were grand, but he outsmarted them using his intelligence and science. The introduction of the Comics Code Authority in 1954 restricted not only the way that stories were presented but also the types of stories that could be presented. For instance, concealed weapons were forbidden, stories were required to have “morals,” and kidnapping and excessive violence were forbidden. As such, Batman’s stories began incorporating elements of science fiction. As the comics demonstrate, Batman famously repels aliens and an island of animatronic dinosaurs during this period. Also, female characters in the Batman stories of this time are poorly treated. The villain Catwoman had to be shelved due to regulations regarding women and violence, while the original Batwoman was brought on as a potential love interest to quiet the growing assertion of conservative culture warriors that Batman and Robin were, in fact, lovers. When this version of Batwoman was deemed unnecessary, she was written out. This period is also famous for Batman having “batsuits” with heretofore unseen special properties, such as fireproofing and thermal heating.

Modern portrayals of Batman show him as a deeply flawed, psychologically scarred hero. During the 1980s the Comics Code’s influence was waning, and writers like Frank Miller took advantage of this to tell brutal, psychological stories. Haunted by the murder of his parents, a modern Batman is dangerous and calculating. He has returned to his roots as a skilled detective and fighter, which has made him suspicious and paranoid. He is often depicted as having calculated how to defeat his allies, should the need arise, with contingency plans for everyone from Robin to Superman. Modern writers have a young Bruce Wayne train as a ninja before returning to Gotham to become Batman, so greater emphasis is placed on his stealth and fighting skills. The batsuit has reflected this change as well, shifting from a cloth/spandex suit to one that is very clearly body armor, built to withstand bullets and knives.

He is also haunted by his mistakes. After the death of Jason Todd, the second sidekick to go by the codename Robin, Batman spirals into anger and depression over not being able to prevent Jason’s death at the hands of the Joker. For the next decade, Jason’s murder haunts Batman alongside that of his parents as his greatest failure. He puts Jason’s costume on display in the Batcave as motivation. In the 2008 Christopher Nolan film The Dark Knight , Batman and Commissioner Gordon conspire to hide the truth of the popular District Attorney Harvey Dent’s descent into madness so that Gotham City will have a symbol of hope. While that decision is for the good of the city, it leads to Bruce Wayne’s reclusion and an eight year hiatus as Batman. Such dark, psychological stories would never have been allowed during the heyday of the Comics Code Authority.

Just as the portrayal of Batman has shifted to meet the current expectations of a superhero, so too have the depictions of the characters around him, both allies and enemies. During the Silver Age, Batman’s associates are, like Batman himself, light-hearted. Characters like Ace the Bat-Hound and the Bat-Mice were introduced to bring in more young readers, though these characters were rarely seen after 1964. Issues were built around a villain-of-the-week who is purely evil and has no outside motivation. These stories also tend to be episodic with no story arcs or even character arcs. The Joker is originally a calculating murderer, but his character becomes a gleeful trickster to comply with the Code.

As readers matured, the creative forces driving the various Batman outlets were able to tell more complex, meaningful stories. Thus, in modern portrayals, Batman’s associates deal with real, lasting consequences and changes. Beginning with Frank Miller’s The Dark Knight comic series, Batman’s friends begin their trials. Dick Grayson, the original Robin, grows up and goes to college, being replaced by the ill-fated Jason Todd. He becomes a hero in his own right, going by the codename Nightwing and becoming the leader of the Teen Titans. In the seminal 1988 graphic novel The Killing Joke , Batgirl is partially paralyzed by the Joker, who shoots her through her spine as part of an effort to drive her father, Commissioner Gordon, insane. This condition lasts until the DC-Universe-wide reboot in 2011, and she is now able to walk and has resumed the mantle of Batgirl. The Joker himself has been given many different backstories, all of them horrific. Filmmakers give a nod to the Joker’s varied backstories in the film The Dark Knight by having the Joker give conflicting accounts of how he received his trademark scars. Catwoman is originally just a bored housewife who turns to crime, but beginning in the 1980s her story retroactively changes to her being a prostitute who turns to burglary to buy freedom for herself and her sister. Once a staunch villain of Batman, this new version of the character is portrayed more as an antihero; though she is not necessarily an upstanding citizen, the new Catwoman will join forces with Batman to fight evil when it suits her. These stories appeal to an audience craving depth and substance to their characters, far different from the Pre-Vietnam War era Batman stories.

While the key details to the Batman story never change, the way the character has been presented has changed over time, as has the way his associated characters have been presented. It is perhaps this adaptability that has allowed Batman to flourish in popularity for almost seventy-five years, with no signs of that popularity waning. As the demographic for Batman’s stories matures, the power wielded by the Comics Code Authority has diminished, making darker, more meaningful stories possible. Previously one dimensional characters were given subtleties and nuances, much in the way modern film versions depict the heroes of old, from Odysseus to Sherlock Holmes. As society’s norms change, this change is reflected in the way films, stories, and comic books depict superheroes. With all the changes occurring in culture worldwide, who knows what the next generation’s Batman will be like?

External Links

“ Disability ” ( https://tinyurl.com/y99te6e2 ) by Nancy Mairs: In “Disability,” writer Nancy Mairs discusses the experience of being a disabled person in a world focused on the able-bodied. It seems to be titled “Hers” but it is the correct essay.

“ Friending, Ancient or Otherwise ” ( https://tinyurl.com/y85u8ae8 ) by Alex Wright: In “Friending, Ancient or Otherwise,” writer Alex Wright explores the evolution and purpose of friendship in the age of social media.

“ Sex, Lies and Conversation: Why Is It So Hard for Men and Women to Talk to Each Other ? ” ( https://tinyurl.com/y95dpehx ) by Deborah Tannen. In this essay, Tannen compares and contrasts conversation styles. You can view the essay here ( https://tinyurl.com/y9vnjqv8 ) also.

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Diagnostic error and bias in the department of radiology: a pictorial essay

1 Department of Diagnostic Radiology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021 China

Jian-Wei Li

Xian-feng yang.

2 Department of Radiology, Drum Tower Hospital Affiliated to Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China

Associated Data

Data sharing is not applicable to this article, as no datasets were generated or analyzed during the current study.

Diagnostic imaging is an essential and indispensable part of medical diagnosis and treatment, and diagnostic errors or biases are also common in the department of radiology, sometimes even having a severe impact on the diagnosis and treatment of patients. There are various reasons for diagnostic errors or biases in imaging. In this review, we analyze and summarize the causes of diagnostic imaging errors and biases based on practical cases. We propose solutions for dealing with diagnostic imaging errors and reducing their probability, thereby helping radiologists in their clinical practice.

Critical relevance statement Diagnostic errors or bias contribute to most medical errors in the radiology department. Solutions for dealing with diagnostic imaging errors are pivotal for patients.

• Diagnostic errors or bias contribute to most medical errors in radiology department.

• Solutions for dealing with diagnostic imaging errors are pivotal for patients.

• This review summarizes the causes of diagnostic errors and offers solutions to them.

Graphical Abstract

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13244-023-01521-7.

Introduction

Quality assurance is the key component of the modern healthcare system; the structure, processes, and results of clinical work are the major elements of quality management and measurement. Low-quality medical care may result in medical errors, including errors in diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and other types. Medical errors are an important cause of mortality, leading to unnecessary health expenditure [ 1 , 2 ]. Among them, the percentage of diagnostic errors, including misdiagnoses, missed diagnoses, and delayed diagnoses, is as high as 10–26% of all cases [ 3 , 4 ]. According to the Committee on Diagnostic Error in Health Care of the Institute of Medicine, diagnostic error is defined as “the failure to (a) establish an accurate and timely explanation of the patient’s health problem(s) or (b) communicate that explanation to the patient” [ 5 ]. In addition, medical errors can lead to patient concern, with one study reporting that 38% of patients attending emergency departments had concerns about medical errors, the most common being misdiagnosis (22%) [ 6 ]. In the radiology department, most medical errors are classified as diagnostic errors or other errors, such as information failure. Approximately 75% of malpractice lawsuits filed against radiologists relate to diagnostic imaging errors [ 7 ].

Diagnostic imaging is the professional interpretation of images; it is a series of uncertain and intricate task processes. The diagnostic process mainly contains 6 steps: assessing the pretest probability of a disease, ensuring the patient’s identity, perception to differentiate negative/positive situations, pattern recognition for the positive findings in radiological diagnosis, differential diagnosis and categorization of the findings, and timely communication of the results in an actionable and reliable format. Therefore, at every step of the process, we are likely to make mistakes due to multiple factors. In addition, the high variability and complexity of imaging techniques and the inherent limitations of the diagnostic capabilities of various imaging modalities also affect the diagnosis. The study of imaging interpretation errors began in the 1940s. At that time, Professor Chamberlain lectured on fluoroscopic errors, including image quality and dark adaptation [ 8 ], and presented what may be the earliest traceable study of radiological errors. In 1959, Garland’s research made radiologists aware of the high rate of diagnostic errors in radiology [ 9 ]. Subsequent studies have shown that the diagnostic imaging error rate remains, although researchers have performed research and intervention in that area for decades, and the data do not improve compared with Garland’s results. More specifically, if only the number of abnormal imaging results is used as the denominator, the error rate is approximately 30%, but if the number of all imaging results (including abnormal and normal cases) is used as the denominator, the error rate is 3.5–4.5% [ 10 – 17 ]. With the development of modern imaging, although advanced imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have greatly improved the diagnostic accuracy in the detection of diseases, there are still numerous radiological diagnostic errors due to increased amounts of data and diagnostic information.

These studies suggest that errors in radiology are common and even inevitable. However, to avoid harming the patients primarily, there is a requirement for us to minimize the error rate. This review presents an overview of the common causes and classifications of diagnostic errors in imaging based on our experience and clinical cases. In addition, we also develop some preliminary proposals about how to cope with errors, improve the quality, and help radiologists learn from mistakes. The structure of the error type categorization and the related error management strategies are summarized in Supplementary Table 1 .

Professional causes of diagnostic errors in radiology

The causes of imaging diagnostic errors are complicated and often coexist for multiple reasons. In this article, we mainly discuss two types: perceptual error and cognitive error. A perceptual error can be referred to as a “miss,” which means an important finding is not observed. Similarly, cognitive errors can be considered “misunderstanding,” which means an unusual image is found but subjected to faulty reasoning, or the diagnostic classification of the imaging abnormality is generally correct, but there is inadequate interpretation or complacency due to cognitive bias. Perceptual errors account for approximately 60 to 80% of diagnostic reporting errors, and the proportion of cognitive mistakes is approximately 20 to 40% [ 10 , 18 ]. Next, we will detail the common causes and examples of these two types of errors based on clinical practice.

Perceptual errors

Images are the basis of diagnosis, so inappropriate or incomplete scan protocols, image artifacts, and low-quality images caused by limitations of equipment and post-processing software are important objective causes of image reporting errors. In radiology department, quality control focuses on technical performance (artifacts, selection of the study region, etc.) and diagnostic performance (detection of pathology, terminological errors, etc.) [ 19 ]. Solutions to these errors include the increasing investment of time and effort in scan and equipment development and routine image quality control, thereby reducing diagnostic errors caused by equipment issues. Apart from that, most perception errors occur when doctors fail to find a meaningful lesion in images (search error), when a lesion is noted for a short time but not given sufficient attention (recognition error), or when doctors attach importance to the lesions but do not provide the correct diagnosis (decision error) [ 20 , 21 ]. Based on our clinical experience and literature published, we categorize perceptual errors into the following causes.

Perceptual errors related to lesion size and density/signal

This is probably one of the most common causes of search errors or missed diagnoses: the lesion is too small to attract the radiologist’s attention. Among such errors, search errors due to small lesions may be the most common; clinically, they include missing small pulmonary nodules, fractures, small liver foci (Fig.  1 ), and abdominal lymphadenopathy. Moreover, the similarity of the density/signal of the lesion to that of the surrounding tissue also contributes to the omission of lesions. The solutions include increased time for careful reading, bilateral contrast, and postprocessing methods such as maximum intensity projection (MIP), multiplanar reformation (MPR), and three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction.

a – c A 47-year-old man suffering from right shoulder pain for 3 days after trauma. a Plain radiography was reported to be normal because the radiologist missed the subtle low-density fracture line due to the overlapping position and careless reading. Axial computed tomography (CT) image ( b ) and three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction ( c ) showed scapular fractures below the coracoid (arrow). d – f Gradually enlarged low-density liver metastasis in a 32-year-old woman after radical resection and chemotherapy of sigmoid cancer. The images demonstrated an ill-defined margin and heterogeneous enhancement. The lesion was not detected and reported in a timely manner from the first two CT scans ( d , e ) because it was small and located at the top of the liver

Perceptual errors related to the location/type of lesions

Whether the lesion is missed is also dependent on its location. If it exists in blind spots or outside the regions of interest (ROIs), such as unique anatomical sites, structural overlaps, the last slice of the scanning field of view (SFOV), the edge of the image, or a corner that is hard to notice, its location may lead to it being missed. This kind of error is known as the location error, and some researchers call it the inattentional bias. For instance, these locations in the chest include the apex of the lung, cardiophrenic angle, parahilar and paraaortic regions, bones, and pulmonary artery. Imaging reading blind spots are a common objective cause of perceptual errors, accounting for 7% of radiological diagnostic errors [ 10 ] (Fig.  2 ). There are some disease entities that can be easily missed. A retrospective study of 122 imaging reports over 2 years demonstrated that the most easily missed types were lymph node metastases of the abdominal and pelvic cavities, bone metastases, malignant lesions of the abdomen and pelvis, fractures, pulmonary nodules, and pulmonary embolism [ 22 ] (Fig.  2 ). This may be due to the high prevalence of these diseases themselves or the fact that these lesions tend to be small or in anatomical blind spots. In addition, bone metastases are often missed because the bone window is not analyzed during body CT reading (Fig.  3 ). Solutions to this problem include increasing time for comprehensive imaging reading and being more familiar with common blind areas, easily missed lesion types, and the metastatic pattern of neoplastic diseases.

a – c Double primary lung adenocarcinoma in a 60-year-old woman. a Radiologists stopped searching for other lesions after detecting the subsolid nodule in the tip of the right upper lobe, missing another subsolid nodule (arrows) in the posterior apical segment of the left upper lobe, above the aortic arch and next to the mediastinum. Multiplanar reformation (MPR) demonstrated that the nodule (arrow) was above the aortic arch where there was a blind area commonly encountered in image reading. d – f A 72-year-old woman affected by COVID-19. The enhanced CT presented a description of the nodule (arrows) in the right upper lobe along with the burr sign of lobes, thus prompting the consideration of lung cancer. However, the low-density filling defect in the right upper pulmonary artery, which was a sign of pulmonary artery embolism, was missed

An abnormal signal mass of the left adrenal gland presented by abdominal MRI in a 39-year-old woman. In the routine preoperative chest CT scan ( b , c ), bone metastasis (arrow) was missed because radiologists mainly observed the pulmonary and mediastinal window but ignored the bone window. The diagnosis of postoperative pathology was left adrenocortical adenocarcinoma

Insufficiency of clinical information

A clinically provided request form is often the only way to obtain a history. If the radiologist fails to read the request form carefully or the clinician does not write the information clearly on the request form or update the patient’s clinical status promptly, missed diagnosis or misdiagnosis may ensue. For example, postoperative complications are likely to be missed for postoperative patients because the medical history is usually not updated in time, and radiologists are usually less sensitive to postoperative complications (Fig.  4 ). Solutions to this problem include improving hospital information systems to ensure adequate clinical and pathological information and increasing the sensitivity of radiologists toward complications following surgery.

a – c Postoperative changes in esophageal cancer in a 67-year-old man. a , b Axial CT showed the postoperative changes in esophageal cancer. However, because the clinical request form did not provide a reminder, radiologists only described postoperative changes and failed to mention tracheoesophageal fistula. Multiplanar reformation (MPR) can better display the fistula (arrow). According to the administration of oral contrast agent, radiologists should understand that the doctor wants to observe if a fistula occurs. ( d - g ) A 56-year-old man with right oropharyngeal carcinoma after radiotherapy. Four MRIs at different times showed abnormal signals in the right mandible. The first two reports ( d , e ) did not mention abnormal signals, illustrating a perceptual error. In the third exam ( f ), the radiologist found but mistook it as bone metastasis, illustrating a cognitive error. The patient’s frequent swollen gums since 2018 were omitted, and this syndrome improved substantially after anti-inflammatory therapy. The diagnosis should be right mandibular osteoradionecrosis with osteomyelitis, but radiologists misdiagnosed it because they were not familiar with radiotherapy complications and diagnostic bias

Perceptual errors related to thinking bias

Some perceptual errors are related to the thinking bias of the human brain, the most common being the satisfaction of search, which refers to decreased vigilance to other abnormalities after detecting the first lesion, resulting in the termination of reading and the omission of other vital lesions (Fig. 2 ). This is a common cause of errors, contributing approximately 22% [ 10 ]. All of these situations have been well documented in the musculoskeletal system [ 23 ]. Solutions include reading images systematically, initiating a secondary search to continue looking for others after finding the first abnormality, and having a comprehensive knowledge of common diagnostic combinations.

Cognitive errors

Cognitive errors have more subjective elements; therefore, they are more complicated. Researchers have most frequently classified the causes of imaging diagnosis or cognitive errors by using the Kim-Mansfield Radiologic Error Classification System [ 10 ]. It should be pointed out that careless terminological errors such as reversing left and right writing and misspellings and huge measurement errors are also common reporting errors that are likely to be misunderstood by patients, which may shake patient confidence and lead to unpleasant arguments; in particular, reversing left and right writing errors can sometimes result in severe medical errors and disputes. This type of error is not included in this review.

Cognitive errors related to lack of professional knowledge

Errors due to a lack of knowledge often occur among medical students and junior physicians. The insufficiency of experience and expertise can easily lead to the misdiagnosis of lesions. For example, beginners may easily mislocate frontal lobe lesions to the parietal lobe in transverse axial brain CT or MRI images. Alternatively, in chest CT diagnosis, the pericardial recess is easily misdiagnosed as enlarged lymph nodes. Moreover, if pivotal signs are missed, the diagnosis of two similar lesions can also be confused (Fig.  5 ). Solutions include attaching importance to the training of professional knowledge by report writing training and continuing education for radiologists.

A mass revealed by physical examination in the left kidney of a 58-year-old woman. a An enhanced, axial abdominal CT image showed a left pararenal fat-density mass, which was diagnosed as liposarcoma. However, this lesion should have been diagnosed as angiomyolipoma instead of liposarcoma. The misdiagnosis may be due to missing key signs such as large blood vessels (arrow) in the tumor and the renal cortical “split sign”

Cognitive errors related to the prior examination and report

References to previous reports and comparison of lesions are of great necessity in patients undergoing follow-up or response evaluation. When comparing lesions, it is better to compare them with an earlier or baseline examination rather than just the previous examination; otherwise, the error of comparison will occur (Fig.  6 ). Moreover, a lack of reference to earlier reports can sometimes lead to misdiagnosis, and excessive trust or reliance on previously reported diagnoses can also lead to diagnostic biases or errors. Some researchers call it prior report bias, alliterative error, or satisfaction of report bias (Fig.  7 ). Solutions include reading the images carefully and making a diagnosis before reviewing previous reports, revisiting and refining previous reports, and considering a second diagnosis.

A 71-year-old man underwent multiple follow-up visits after colon cancer surgery. a – f Images showed a small nodule in the lower lobe of the left lung, but the radiologist only compared the current CT image with that of the last examination and reported no changes. By comparing each CT image, the gradually enlarging nodule was recognized, and follow-up imaging confirmed it as a metastatic tumor

Esophageal carcinoma with multiple systemic metastases reported by PET-CT in a 60-year-old man with dysphagia for 1 month. a , b PET-CT images showed a mildly elevated pelvic uptake nodule in the right pelvis, which was suspected to be metastasis. c , d Therefore, the radiologist was influenced by the previous esophageal carcinoma and PET-CT reports, ignoring typical neurogenic tumor signs such as the “target sign” and the close association with the sacral plexus nerve (arrows). Eventually, the right pelvic nodule was misdiagnosed as metastasis in the MRI report. This is a typical example of prior report bias

Cognitive errors related to clinical information

The clinical history is crucial to the diagnosis. Because the request form does not provide a complete or accurate clinical history or is not sensitive enough to specific clinical histories, such as side effects after treatment, radiologists often make false decisions (Fig.  4 ). Therefore, when the diagnosis is difficult, it is important for radiologists to ask for the clinical history or physical examination in person.

Cognitive errors related to thinking cognitive bias

Thinking biases are tendencies of our cognitive functions to obey certain patterns that are not always productive. Various cognitive biases can keep us “locked” on an irrelevant finding, leading to a wrong diagnosis and preventing an objective interpretation. The most frequent and important cognitive biases in our work include anchoring bias, confirmation bias, availability bias, and attribution bias [ 24 ].

Anchoring bias and confirmation bias can be considered fixed mindset bias. Anchoring bias means that a doctor fixes on his or her initial diagnostic impression too early and ignores subsequently acquired new signs or signs that conflict with the initial impression. Confirmation bias refers to the situation in which when a particular point of view is subjectively supported, we tend to seek information that can help the original point of view but ignore information that may overthrow the original point of view. Regarding the solutions, before the final diagnosis is made, all available evidence should be reviewed and gathered, especially evidence supporting a different opinion, and then we can consider a second diagnosis. For instance, when we find vertebral compression fractures in patients with a history of malignancy, we are likely to consider metastatic tumors, and signs supporting benign diseases may be ignored (Fig.  8 ).

An 81-year-old woman suffered from low back pain for a week after lymphoma chemotherapy. Lumbar MRI T 1 WI ( a ) and T 2 WI/FS ( b ) illustrated multiple abnormal vertebral signals with mild compression fractures. The radiologist misdiagnosed it as a malignant lesion because of the patient’s clinical history of malignant tumor, missing some signs of benign compression fracture such as linear low signal under the endplate, strip-like abnormal signal (arrows), and Schmorl’s nodes. This diagnostic bias is classified as anchoring bias and confirmation bias. After the patient underwent vertebral biopsy and arthroplasty ( c ), no evidence of malignant tumor was found by pathology, and a benign compression fracture was diagnosed

The definition of availability bias is judging the possibility of an event based on how easily and frequently it comes to mind. Another similar cognitive bias is called zebra retreat bias, which refers to a condition in which the patient’s history and imaging findings support a rare diagnosis, but the radiologist is afraid to make the correct diagnosis because of its rarity [ 25 ] (Fig.  9 ). Solutions include using objective data of the disease incidence to correlate with the radiologist’s diagnostic rates and make a differential diagnosis.

A space-occupying lesion of the pancreatic tail in a 52-year-old man. Axial MRI T 1 WI ( a ), T 2 WI/FS ( b ), T 1 WI/FS ( c ), and enhanced ( d ) sequences all showed that the lesion’s signal was similar to that of the spleen, but our radiologist’s diagnosis was pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor, which was relatively common, rather than a rarely occurring ectopic spleen. Finally, the surgical pathology confirmed an ectopic spleen in the pancreas. This thinking bias is classified as zebra retreat bias

Attribution bias means that some specialist doctors are more willing to favor the diagnosis of diseases in their specialty. For radiologists, disease stereotypes are often based on information provided by the department where the patient is seen or the request form. Other analogical biases, such as framing bias, draw different conclusions from the same information because of the different ways or order in which information is presented. For radiologists, misdiagnosis often occurs due to the preconception of clinical information (Fig.  10 ). Solutions include realizing that initial clinical impressions can sometimes be wrong and reviewing the images before checking the clinical history.

A palpable pelvic mass that was diagnosed as an ovarian tumor by the gynecologist in a 57-year-old woman who presented in gynecological clinics. MRI scan ( a – c ) showed a pelvic mass with hemorrhage-like confounding hyperintensity on T 1 WI and hypointensity on T 2 WI/FS internally. An enhanced scan represented heterogeneous enhancement. The mass was closely related to the small intestine, and blood supply by large mesenteric vessels (arrows) could also be observed on enhanced sagittal MRI ( d ) and axial CT ( e ) images, suggesting intestinal original disease. However, the radiologist mistook small intestinal stromal tumors as ovarian tumors because of the gynecologist’s diagnosis. This is classified as attribution bias

Other cognitive biases include outcome bias and premature closure. The former refers to the tendency of doctors to prefer diagnostic decisions that lead to a better outcome for the patient [ 25 ], and the latter refers to regarding a preliminary diagnosis as the premature conclusion [ 26 ]. The above errors often occur in multiple combinations (Fig.  4 ). Solutions include realizing the above cognitive biases that can influence our diagnosis and conducting a complete and accurate diagnosis with a correct attitude.

Non-professional causes of diagnostic errors in radiology

Many non-professional causes can affect the accuracy of reports during the workflow of radiologists, and fatigue is one of the most important causes [ 20 , 27 ]. For instance, fatigue from lack of sleep has been identified as a contributing factor in many severe accidents [ 28 , 29 ]. Some studies have shown that the error rate in diagnosis reports is higher during the night shift, especially after midnight [ 30 ]. More importantly, the workload of radiologists has relentlessly increased and is a frequent reason for burnout. Burnout is “a syndrome resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed.” A recent Medscape survey found that 47% of radiologists suffer from burnout [ 31 , 32 ]. In addition, the rapid reading of images is unavoidable in real work due to the inevitable increase in workload [ 33 ]. Under these circumstances, errors the radiologists make will be regarded as reckless readings in the case of medical lawsuits, and these lawsuits will allege that missed diagnoses are due to radiologists spending insufficient time analyzing images. Although the authors of a recent article advocated putting limits on shift hours and workload for radiologists, there is a lack of scientific measures to weigh the workload [ 34 ], responsibilities, and reading speed of radiologists.

Another common reason is the inadequate attention of the readers. Currently, radiologists are involved in multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) and scientific teaching meetings in addition to reading images. It has been demonstrated that additional interruptions can lead to a 12% decrease in report correctness [ 35 ]. In addition, as a profession requiring intense attention, high visual perception, and cognitive demands, radiologists need optimal physiological conditions. However, approximately 58% of radiologists suffer neck and shoulder pain, back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, eye strain, headache, and other symptoms that may interfere with work [ 36 , 37 ]. Solutions to cope with these non-professional factors include taking regular breaks to avoid fatigue, moving and standing from time to time when reading images, minimizing interruptions in the diagnostic process caused by phone calls, using height-adjustable desks and ergonomic chairs, adjusting the brightness of indoor lighting and screens, and reducing ambient noise [ 38 ].

Judgment and systematic strategies for diagnostic errors in radiology

Defining diagnostic errors is a difficult task due to the inherent subjectivity of image interpretation, especially for cognitive errors. First, it is crucial to distinguish between “errors” and observer “discrepancy” when discussing errors in diagnostic radiology. The term “error” implies that there is no potential for argument about what is “correct” and that the reporting radiologist should have been able to make the proper diagnosis or report but was unable to do so. The word “discrepancy” stands for justifiable differences of opinion between colleagues [ 39 , 40 ]. Second, radiological reports not only accurately convey the presence of abnormalities but also the radiologist’s opinion and the level of diagnostic confidence that expresses a particular level of certainty in the suggested diagnoses [ 41 ]. However, because imaging findings are often nonspecific, radiological conclusions usually cannot be clear or definite in clinical work. Sometimes, radiologists will adopt protective measures such as vague or descriptive diagnoses and lengthy differential diagnoses when they want to avoid mistakes and disputes. In general, the interpretation of diagnostic imaging studies relies on consensus expert opinion to determine diagnostic errors [ 42 ]. In the process of determining errors in radiology, there are also certain thinking or cognitive biases, such as hindsight bias, which means experts retrospectively downplay or underestimate the difficulties and challenges of the initial diagnosis after the diagnosis of a lesion has been confirmed or additional information has been added, especially if fatality discussions or medical errors/disputes discussions [ 7 , 26 , 43 , 44 ].

Previous errors in radiological diagnosis are often attributed to individual carelessness, negligence, or poor performance. Therefore, the solutions for reducing the error rate often focus on improving individual ability and responsibility, as illustrated by earlier descriptions in this article of countermeasures to strengthen the influencing factors. However, there is growing recognition of the limitations of radiologists in image perception and cognition involving a series of complex diagnostic decisions that cause the inevitability of errors. Developing systematic policies and approaches to reduce errors is an effective measure and may involve several approaches, such as multiple reviewer report system, using structured reporting templates and reporting and data system (RADS), error measurement or detection strategies such as electronic trigger tools and checklists to detect “wrong-side” misidentification errors [ 45 ], report writing training and continuing education for radiologists, holding radiology quality control meetings and providing peer feedback learning, improving hospital information systems to ensure adequate clinical and pathological information, enhancing communication with doctors or patients, matching workload to staffing, and promoting the application of artificial intelligence (AI).

Multiple reviewer report system can ensure diagnostic accuracy, but they may increase human labor costs. However, in the double-reviewer report system, the reviewers are mainly medical students and junior radiologists; therefore, the application of this system is the most feasible way to balance labor costs and report quality, which also has educational significance for junior reviewers. In difficult cases, we can hold more MDTs with several senior doctors to make correct diagnoses. Moreover, with its rapid development, artificial intelligence (AI) is bound to help doctors reduce missed diagnoses of lesions, improve diagnostic efficiency, and decrease human labor costs. For individual difficult cases, group discussions with wide participation are needed, which can help reduce the diagnostic bias of senior doctors and contribute to residents’ education. For radiology quality control meetings, near misses are potential learning opportunities that should be used to promote quality controls and radiologists’ self-improvement in an attempt to prevent future accidents. In addition, an unbiased “no blame” culture should be introduced and ensured as a method to focus attention on understanding case error instead of individual radiologists and improve the quality of care by learning from mistakes [ 46 , 47 ].

In summary, this review presents an analysis of the causes of diagnostic errors in imaging and provides solutions for them with the objective of helping radiologists reduce errors in clinical practice. Quality control of imaging diagnosis is a challenging problem that will need to be addressed by more efforts and research in the future.

Abbreviations

Authors’ contributions

ML conceived this study and modified the draft. LZ and XW performed manuscript drafting and image collection. JWL, XJ, and XFY reviewed the literature and prepared figures. All authors critically edited the manuscript. All authors read and approved the submitted version.

No funding.

Availability of data and materials

Declarations.

Images in this review article are published under study permission granted by the hospital district. Informed consent was waived due to the retrospective nature of the study.

Not applicable.

The authors declare that they have no competing interests.

Publisher’s Note

Springer Nature remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.

Li Zhang and Xin Wen contributed equally to this work.

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How to Write a Compare and Contrast Essay

Last Updated: May 12, 2023 Approved

This article was co-authored by Megan Morgan, PhD . Megan Morgan is a Graduate Program Academic Advisor in the School of Public & International Affairs at the University of Georgia. She earned her PhD in English from the University of Georgia in 2015. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article has 29 testimonials from our readers, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 3,103,910 times.

The purpose of a compare and contrast essay is to analyze the differences and/or the similarities of two distinct subjects. A good compare/contrast essay doesn’t only point out how the subjects are similar or different (or even both!). It uses those points to make a meaningful argument about the subjects. While it can be a little intimidating to approach this type of essay at first, with a little work and practice, you can write a great compare-and-contrast essay!

Formulating Your Argument

• You could pick two subjects that are in the same “category” but have differences that are significant in some way. For example, you could choose “homemade pizza vs. frozen grocery store pizza.”
• You could pick two subjects that don’t appear to have anything in common but that have a surprising similarity. For example, you could choose to compare bats and whales. (One is tiny and flies, and the other is huge and swims, but they both use sonar to hunt.)
• You could pick two subjects that might appear to be the same but are actually different. For example, you could choose "The Hunger Games movie vs. the book."

• For example, ask yourself: What can we learn by thinking about “The Hunger Games” and “Battle Royale” together that we would miss out on if we thought about them separately?
• It can be helpful to consider the “So what?” question when deciding whether your subjects have meaningful comparisons and contrasts to be made. If you say “The Hunger Games and Battle Royale are both similar and different,” and your friend asked you “So what?” what would your answer be? In other words, why bother putting these two things together?

• A “Venn diagram” can often be helpful when brainstorming. This set of overlapping circles can help you visualize where your subjects are similar and where they differ. In the outer edges of the circle, you write what is different; in the overlapping middle area, you write what’s similar. [2] X Trustworthy Source University of North Carolina Writing Center UNC's on-campus and online instructional service that provides assistance to students, faculty, and others during the writing process Go to source
• You can also just draw out a list of all of the qualities or characteristics of each subject. Once you’ve done that, start looking through the list for traits that both subjects share. Major points of difference are also good to note.

• For example, if you are comparing and contrasting cats and dogs, you might notice that both are common household pets, fairly easy to adopt, and don’t usually have many special care needs. These are points of comparison (ways they are similar).
• You might also note that cats are usually more independent than dogs, that dogs may not provoke allergies as much as cats do, and that cats don’t get as big as many dogs do. These are points of contrast (ways they are different).
• These points of contrast can often be good places to start thinking about your thesis, or argument. Do these differences make one animal a superior type of pet? Or a better pet choice for a specific living situation (e.g., an apartment, a farm, etc.)?

• Show readers why one subject is more desirable than the other. Example: "Cats are better pets than dogs because they require less maintenance, are more independent, and are more adaptable."
• Help readers make a meaningful comparison between two subjects. Example: "New York City and San Francisco are both great cities for young professionals, but they differ in terms of their job opportunities, social environment, and living conditions."
• Show readers how two subjects are similar and different. Example: "While both The Catcher in the Rye and To Kill a Mockingbird explore the themes of loss of innocence and the deep bond between siblings, To Kill a Mockingbird is more concerned with racism while The Catcher in the Rye focuses on the prejudices of class."
• In middle school and high school, the standard format for essays is often the “5-paragraph form,” with an introduction, 3 body paragraphs, and a conclusion. If your teacher recommends this form, go for it. However, you should be aware that especially in college, teachers and professors tend to want students to break out of this limited mode. Don’t get so locked into having “three main points” that you forget to fully explore your topic.

Organizing Your Essay

• Subject by subject. This organization deals with all of the points about Topic A, then all of the points of Topic B. For example, you could discuss all your points about frozen pizza (in as many paragraphs as necessary), then all your points about homemade pizza. The strength of this form is that you don’t jump back and forth as much between topics, which can help your essay read more smoothly. It can also be helpful if you are using one subject as a “lens” through which to examine the other. The major disadvantage is that the comparisons and contrasts don’t really become evident until much further into the essay, and it can end up reading like a list of “points” rather than a cohesive essay. [4] X Trustworthy Source University of North Carolina Writing Center UNC's on-campus and online instructional service that provides assistance to students, faculty, and others during the writing process Go to source
• Point by point. This type of organization switches back and forth between points. For example, you could first discuss the prices of frozen pizza vs. homemade pizza, then the quality of ingredients, then the convenience factor. The advantage of this form is that it’s very clear what you’re comparing and contrasting. The disadvantage is that you do switch back and forth between topics, so you need to make sure that you use transitions and signposts to lead your reader through your argument.
• Compare then contrast. This organization presents all the comparisons first, then all the contrasts. It’s a pretty common way of organizing an essay, and it can be helpful if you really want to emphasize how your subjects are different. Putting the contrasts last places the emphasis on them. However, it can be more difficult for your readers to immediately see why these two subjects are being contrasted if all the similarities are first.

• Introduction. This paragraph comes first and presents the basic information about the subjects to be compared and contrasted. It should present your thesis and the direction of your essay (i.e., what you will discuss and why your readers should care).
• Body Paragraphs. These are the meat of your essay, where you provide the details and evidence that support your claims. Each different section or body paragraph should tackle a different division of proof. It should provide and analyze evidence in order to connect those proofs to your thesis and support your thesis. Many middle-school and high-school essays may only require three body paragraphs, but use as many as is necessary to fully convey your argument.
• Acknowledgement of Competitive Arguments/Concession. This paragraph acknowledges that other counter-arguments exist, but discusses how those arguments are flawed or do not apply.
• Conclusion. This paragraph summarizes the evidence presented. It will restate the thesis, but usually in a way that offers more information or sophistication than the introduction could. Remember: your audience now has all the information you gave them about why your argument is solid. They don’t need you to just reword your original thesis. Take it to the next level!

• Introduction: state your intent to discuss the differences between camping in the woods or on the beach.
• Body Paragraph 1 (Woods): Climate/Weather
• Body Paragraph 2 (Woods): Types of Activities and Facilities
• Body Paragraph 3 (Beach): Climate/Weather
• Body Paragraph 4 (Beach): Types of Activities and Facilities

• Introduction

• Body Paragraph 1: Similarity between woods and beaches (both are places with a wide variety of things to do)
• Body Paragraph 2: First difference between woods and beaches (they have different climates)
• Body Paragraph 3: Second difference between woods and beaches (there are more easily accessible woods than beaches in most parts of the country)
• Body Paragraph 4: Emphasis on the superiority of the woods to the beach

• Topic sentence: This sentence introduces the main idea and subject of the paragraph. It can also provide a transition from the ideas in the previous paragraph.
• Body: These sentences provide concrete evidence that support the topic sentence and main idea.
• Conclusion: this sentence wraps up the ideas in the paragraph. It may also provide a link to the next paragraph’s ideas.

Putting It All Together

• If you are having trouble finding evidence to support your argument, go back to your original texts and try the brainstorming process again. It could be that your argument is evolving past where it started, which is good! You just need to go back and look for further evidence.

• For example, in a body paragraph about the quality of ingredients in frozen vs. homemade pizza, you could close with an assertion like this: “Because you actively control the quality of the ingredients in pizza you make at home, it can be healthier for you than frozen pizza. It can also let you express your imagination. Pineapple and peanut butter pizza? Go for it! Pickles and parmesan? Do it! Using your own ingredients lets you have fun with your food.” This type of comment helps your reader understand why the ability to choose your own ingredients makes homemade pizza better.

• Reading your essay aloud can also help you find problem spots. Often, when you’re writing you get so used to what you meant to say that you don’t read what you actually said.

• Avoid bias. Don't use overly negative or defamatory language to show why a subject is unfavorable; use solid evidence to prove your points instead.
• Avoid first-person pronouns unless told otherwise. In some cases, your teacher may encourage you to use “I” and “you” in your essay. However, if the assignment or your teacher doesn’t mention it, stick with third-person instead, like “one may see” or “people may enjoy.” This is common practice for formal academic essays.
• Proofread! Spelling and punctuation errors happen to everyone, but not catching them can make you seem lazy. Go over your essay carefully, and ask a friend to help if you’re not confident in your own proofreading skills.

Sample Body Paragraphs

• "When one is deciding whether to go to the beach or the woods, the type of activities that each location offers are an important point to consider. At the beach, one can enjoy the water by swimming, surfing, or even building a sandcastle with a moat that will fill with water. When one is in the woods, one may be able to go fishing or swimming in a nearby lake, or one may not be near water at all. At the beach, one can keep one's kids entertained by burying them in sand or kicking around a soccer ball; if one is in the woods, one can entertain one's kids by showing them different plans or animals. Both the beach and the woods offer a variety of activities for adults and kids alike."

• "The beach has a wonderful climate, many activities, and great facilities for any visitor's everyday use. If a person goes to the beach during the right day or time of year, he or she can enjoy warm, yet refreshing water, a cool breeze, and a relatively hot climate. At the beach, one can go swimming, sunbathe, or build sandcastles. There are also great facilities at the beach, such as a changing room, umbrellas, and conveniently-located restaurants and changing facilities. The climate, activities, and facilities are important points to consider when deciding between the beach and the woods."

Sample Essay Outline

Community Q&A

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• ↑ http://writingcenter.unc.edu/handouts/comparing-and-contrasting/
• ↑ http://www.readwritethink.org/files/resources/interactives/compcontrast/

About This Article

To write a compare and contrast essay, try organizing your essay so you're comparing and contrasting one aspect of your subjects in each paragraph. Or, if you don't want to jump back and forth between subjects, structure your essay so the first half is about one subject and the second half is about the other. You could also write your essay so the first few paragraphs introduce all of the comparisons and the last few paragraphs introduce all of the contrasts, which can help emphasize your subjects' differences and similarities. To learn how to choose subjects to compare and come up with a thesis statement, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Introduction to Digital Radiography and PACS

Chapter 1 Introduction to Digital Radiography and PACS Outline Conventional Film/Screen Radiography Digital Imaging Historical Development of Digital Imaging Digital Radiography Photostimulable Phosphor Flat Panel Detectors Comparison of Film/Screen to PSP and FPD Systems Picture Archiving and Communication Systems PACS Uses Transitioning from Film/Screen to Digital Imaging The Imaging Chain Film versus PSP and FPD Patient Demographics Technologist Markers Technical Choices Speed Single versus Multiple Exposures Preparing the Image for Reading Getting the Image to the Radiologist Summary Objectives On completion of this chapter, you should be able to: •  Define the term digital imaging . •  Explain latent image formation for conventional film/screen radiography. •  Compare and contrast the latent image formation process for storage phosphor, flat panel with thin-film transistor (TFT), and charge-coupled device (CCD)digital imaging systems. •  Explain what a picture archiving and communication system (PACS) is and how it is used. •  Define digital imaging and communications in medicine (DICOM). Key Terms Digital imaging Direct capture digital radiography Flat panel detector (FPD) Indirect capture digital radiography Photostimulable phosphor (PSP) image capture Teleradiology This chapter is intended to present a brief overview of digital imaging and the picture archiving and communication system (PACS); both topics are covered in depth in the chapters that follow. This chapter also presents several basic definitions, compares and contrasts digital and analog imaging, and discusses the historic development of both digital image capture and PACS. It is important to grasp the basic definitions and concepts before moving to the more involved topics because this information will be useful throughout the textbook. Bear in mind that the major focus of this text is on entry-level radiography. Although advanced modalities such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), and others may be touched on, this text will not dig deeply into those areas. Conventional Film/Screen Radiography Before defining and discussing digital imaging, a basic understanding of conventional film/screen imaging must be established. Conventional radiography uses film and intensifying screens in its image formation process. Film is placed on one or between two intensifying screens that emit light when struck by x-rays. The light exposes the film in proportion to the amount and energy of the x-rays incident on the screen. The film is then processed with chemicals, and the manifest image appears on the sheet of film. The film is taken to a radiologist and placed on a lightbox for interpretation. For further review of how conventional radiographic images are created, please consult a radiographic imaging textbook for a more in-depth explanation of this process. Digital Imaging Digital imaging is a broad term. This type of imaging is what allows text, photos, drawings, animations, and video to appear on the World Wide Web. In medicine, one of the first uses of digital imaging was with the introduction of the CT scanner by Godfrey Hounsfield in the 1970s. In the decades since, all of the other imaging modalities have become digital. The basic definition of digital imaging is any imaging acquisition process that produces an electronic image that can be viewed and manipulated on a computer. Most modern medical imaging modalities produce digital images that can be sent through a computer network to various locations. Historical Development of Digital Imaging CT is second only to the discovery of the x-ray as a major milestone in medical imaging. CT brought about the coupling of the computer and imaging devices. The earliest CT unit built by Hounsfield took several hours to acquire a single slice of information. The machine then took a few days to reconstruct the raw data into a recognizable image. The first commercial CT scanners built were made to image the head only. Figure 1-1 shows one of the early CT scanners built for imaging the head. FIGURE 1-1 First-Generation EMI CT Unit: Dedicated Head Scanner. (Photograph taken at Roentgen Museum, Lennep, Germany.) MRI was introduced commercially for health care use in the early 1980s. Several companies began pioneering efforts in the mid to late 1970s after the publication of an article by Paul Lauterbur in 1973. Many scientists and researchers were involved in the development of the MRI as we know it today. Fluoroscopy saw many advances during the 1970s as well thanks to developments in computer technology. Analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) made it possible to capture the images digitally; Plumbicon or Vidicon TV tubes allowed for the display of the dynamic (real-time) image on a television monitor in higher resolution and made it possible to store the frames digitally on a computer. Ultrasound and nuclear medicine were easy converts to the digital world early on because the images created in these modalities were simply frame-grabbed (the current image on the screen is captured and sent as an image file) and converted to a digital image. Digital Radiography The concept of moving images digitally was introduced by Albert Jutras in Canada during his experimentation with teleradiology (moving images via telephone lines to and from remote locations) in the 1950s. Early PACSs were developed by the U.S. military in an effort to move images among Veterans Administration (VA) hospitals and to send battlefield images to established hospitals. These strides were taking place in the early to mid 1980s, and without the government’s participation, this technology would not be where it is today. To provide the PACS a digital image, early analog radiographs were scanned into a computer (digitized) so that the images could be sent from computer to computer. The inherently digital modalities were sent via a PACS first, and then as projection radiography technologies advanced, they joined the digital ranks. Photostimulable Phosphor Photostimulable phosphor (PSP) image capture (previously known as computed radiography [CR]), is the digital acquisition modality that uses storage phosphor plates to produce projection images. To avoid possible confusion resulting from use of the term computed , the technology related to this type of system will be referred to as PSP because the newer systems may or may not be cassette based. PSP imaging can be used in standard radiographic rooms just like film/screen. The only new equipment that is required is the PSP and phosphor plates, the PSP readers, the technologist quality control workstation, and a means to view the images, which can be either a printer or a viewing station ( Figure 1-2 ). FIGURE 1-2 Fuji PSP Reader, Cassette, and Storage-Phosphor Screen. (Courtesy FUJIFILM Medical Systems USA, Inc.) The storage phosphor plates are similar to our current intensifying screens. The biggest difference is that the storage phosphors can store a portion of the incident x-ray energy in traps within the material for later readout. More is presented on this topic in Chapter 4 . PSP imaging was first introduced commercially in the United States in 1983 by Fuji Medical Systems of Japan ( Figure 1-3 ). The first system consisted of a phosphor storage plate, a reader, and a laser printer to print the image onto film. PSP imaging did not take off very quickly because many radiologists were reluctant to embrace the new technology. In the early 1990s, PSP imaging began to be installed at a faster rate because of the technological improvements that had occurred in the decade since its introduction. Several major vendors have PSP systems installed in hospitals throughout the United States. FIGURE 1-3 Examples of Two PSP Readers. A, A high-volume reader capable of processing between 110 and 140 imaging plates per hour. B, A much smaller system designed for medical offices, surgery, or intensive care units, capable of processing 50 to 60 imaging plates per hour. ( A, from Ballinger: Merrill’s atlas, ed 10, St. Louis, 2003, Mosby; B, courtesy FUJIFILM Medical Systems USA, Inc.) Flat Panel Detectors Most flat panel detector (FPD) systems use an x-ray absorber material coupled to a thin film transistor or a charge-coupled device (CCD) to form the image. Therefore an existing x-ray room needs to be retrofitted with these devices if a new FPD, TFT, or CCD room is not installed ( Figure 1-4 ). FIGURE 1-4 Axiom Aristos MX FPD Unit. (Image courtesy of Siemens Healthcare.) FPD can be divided into two categories: indirect capture and direct capture. Indirect capture digital radiography devices absorb x-rays and convert them into light. The light is then collected by an area-CCD or thin-film transistor (TFT) array and then converted into an electrical signal that is sent to the computer for processing and viewing ( Figure 1-5 ). Direct capture digital radiography devices convert the incident x-ray energy directly into an electrical signal, typically using a photoconductor as the x-ray absorber, and send the electrical signal to a TFT and then to an ADC. The ADC signal goes to the computer for processing and viewing ( Figure 1-6 ). FIGURE 1-5 The Image Acquisition Process of an Indirect Capture FPD System using CCD Technology. FIGURE 1-6 The Image Acquisition Process of a Direct Capture FPD System.

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34 Compelling Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Topics cover education, technology, pop culture, sports, animals, and more.

Do your writers need some inspiration? If you’re teaching students to write a compare and contrast essay, a strong example is an invaluable tool. This round-up of our favorite compare and contrast essays covers a range of topics and grade levels, so no matter your students’ interests or ages, you’ll always have a helpful example to share. You’ll find links to full essays about education, technology, pop culture, sports, animals, and more. (Need compare-and-contrast essay topic ideas? Check out our big list of compare and contrast essay topics! )

What is a compare and contrast essay?

• Education and parenting essays
• Technology essays
• Pop culture essays
• Historical and political essays
• Sports essays
• Lifestyle essays
• Healthcare essays
• Animal essays

When choosing a compare and contrast essay example to include on this list, we considered the structure. A strong compare and contrast essay begins with an introductory paragraph that includes background context and a strong thesis. Next, the body includes paragraphs that explore the similarities and differences. Finally, a concluding paragraph restates the thesis, draws any necessary inferences, and asks any remaining questions.

A compare and contrast essay example can be an opinion piece comparing two things and making a conclusion about which is better. For example, “Is Tom Brady really the GOAT?” It can also help consumers decide which product is better suited to them. Should you keep your subscription to Hulu or Netflix? Should you stick with Apple or explore Android? Here’s our list of compare and contrast essay samples categorized by subject.

Education and Parenting Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Private school vs. public school.

Sample lines: “Deciding whether to send a child to public or private school can be a tough choice for parents. … Data on whether public or private education is better can be challenging to find and difficult to understand, and the cost of private school can be daunting. … According to the most recent data from the National Center for Education Statistics, public schools still attract far more students than private schools, with 50.7 million students attending public school as of 2018. Private school enrollment in the fall of 2017 was 5.7 million students, a number that is down from 6 million in 1999.”

Read the full essay: Private School vs. Public School at U.S. News and World Report

Homeschool vs. Public School: How Home Schooling Will Change Public Education

Sample lines: “Home schooling, not a present threat to public education, is nonetheless one of the forces that will change it. If the high estimates of the number of children in home schools (1.2 million) is correct, then the home-schooling universe is larger than the New York City public school system and roughly the size of the Los Angeles and Chicago public school systems combined. … Critics charge that three things are wrong with home schooling: harm to students academically; harm to society by producing students who are ill-prepared to function as democratic citizens and participants in a modern economy; and harm to public education, making it more difficult for other parents to educate their children. … It is time to ask whether home schooling, charters, and vouchers should be considered parts of a broad repertoire of methods that we as a society use to educate our children.”

Read the full essay: Homeschool vs. Public School: How Home Schooling Will Change Public Education at Brookings

Which parenting style is right for you?

Sample lines: “The three main types of parenting are on a type of ‘sliding scale’ of parenting, with permissive parenting as the least strict type of parenting. Permissive parenting typically has very few rules, while authoritarian parenting is thought of as a very strict, rule-driven type of parenting.”

Read the full essay: What Is Authoritative Parenting? at Healthline

Masked Education? The Benefits and Burdens of Wearing Face Masks in Schools During the Pandemic

Sample lines: “Face masks can prevent the spread of the virus SARS-CoV-2. … However, covering the lower half of the face reduces the ability to communicate. Positive emotions become less recognizable, and negative emotions are amplified. Emotional mimicry, contagion, and emotionality in general are reduced and (thereby) bonding between teachers and learners, group cohesion, and learning—of which emotions are a major driver. The benefits and burdens of face masks in schools should be seriously considered and made obvious and clear to teachers and students.”

Read the full essay: Masked Education? The Benefits and Burdens of Wearing Face Masks in Schools During the Pandemic at National Library of Medicine

To Ban or Not: What Should We Really Make of Book Bans?

Sample lines: “In recent years, book bans have soared in schools, reaching an all-time high in fall 2022. … The challenge of balancing parent concerns about ‘age appropriateness’ against the imperative of preparing students to be informed citizens is still on the minds of many educators today. … Such curricular decision-making  should  be left to the professionals, argues English/language arts instructional specialist Miriam Plotinsky. ‘Examining texts for their appropriateness is not a job that noneducators are trained to do,’ she wrote last year, as the national debate over censorship resurged with the news that a Tennessee district banned the graphic novel  Maus  just days before Holocaust Remembrance Day.”

Read the full essay: To Ban or Not: What Should We Really Make of Book Bans? at Education Week

Technology Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Netflix vs. hulu 2023: which is the best streaming service.

Sample lines: “Netflix fans will point to its high-quality originals, including  The Witcher ,  Stranger Things ,  Emily in Paris ,  Ozark , and more, as well as a wide variety of documentaries like  Cheer ,  The Last Dance ,  My Octopus Teacher , and many others. It also boasts a much larger subscription base, with more than 222 million subscribers compared to Hulu’s 44 million. Hulu, on the other hand, offers a variety of extras such as HBO and Showtime—content that’s unavailable on Netflix. Its price tag is also cheaper than the competition, with its $7/mo. starting price, which is a bit more palatable than Netflix’s $10/mo. starting price.”

Read the full essay: Netflix vs. Hulu 2023: Which is the best streaming service? at TV Guide

Kindle vs. Hardcover: Which is easier on the eyes?

Sample lines: “In the past, we would have to drag around heavy books if we were really into reading. Now, we can have all of those books, and many more, stored in one handy little device that can easily be stuffed into a backpack, purse, etc. … Many of us still prefer to hold an actual book in our hands. … But, whether you use a Kindle or prefer hardcover books or paperbacks, the main thing is that you enjoy reading. A story in a book or on a Kindle device can open up new worlds, take you to fantasy worlds, educate you, entertain you, and so much more.”

Read the full essay: Kindle vs. Hardcover: Which is easier on the eyes? at Books in a Flash

iPhone vs. Android: Which is better for you?

Sample lines: “The iPhone vs. Android comparison is a never-ending debate on which one is best. It will likely never have a real winner, but we’re going to try and help you to find your personal pick all the same. iOS 17 and Android 14—the latest versions of the two operating systems—both offer smooth and user-friendly experiences, and several similar or identical features. But there are still important differences to be aware of. … Owning an iPhone is a simpler, more convenient experience. There’s less to think about. … Android-device ownership is a bit harder. … Yet it’s simultaneously more freeing, because it offers more choice.”

Read the full essay: iPhone vs. Android: Which is better for you? at Tom’s Guide

Cutting the cord: Is streaming or cable better for you?

Sample lines: “Cord-cutting has become a popular trend in recent years, thanks to the rise of streaming services. For those unfamiliar, cord cutting is the process of canceling your cable subscription and instead, relying on streaming platforms such as Netflix and Hulu to watch your favorite shows and movies. The primary difference is that you can select your streaming services à la carte while cable locks you in on a set number of channels through bundles. So, the big question is: should you cut the cord?”

Read the full essay: Cutting the cord: Is streaming or cable better for you? at BroadbandNow

PS5 vs. Nintendo Switch

Sample lines: “The crux of the comparison comes down to portability versus power. Being able to migrate fully fledged Nintendo games from a big screen to a portable device is a huge asset—and one that consumers have taken to, especially given the Nintendo Switch’s meteoric sales figures. … It is worth noting that many of the biggest franchises like Call of Duty, Madden, modern Resident Evil titles, newer Final Fantasy games, Grand Theft Auto, and open-world Ubisoft adventures like Assassin’s Creed will usually skip Nintendo Switch due to its lack of power. The inability to play these popular games practically guarantees that a consumer will pick up a modern system, while using the Switch as a secondary device.”

Read the full essay: PS5 vs. Nintendo Switch at Digital Trends

What is the difference between Facebook and Instagram?

Sample lines: “Have you ever wondered what is the difference between Facebook and Instagram? Instagram and Facebook are by far the most popular social media channels used by digital marketers. Not to mention that they’re also the biggest platforms used by internet users worldwide. So, today we’ll look into the differences and similarities between these two platforms to help you figure out which one is the best fit for your business.”

Read the full essay: What is the difference between Facebook and Instagram? at SocialBee

Digital vs. Analog Watches—What’s the Difference?

Sample lines: “In short, digital watches use an LCD or LED screen to display the time. Whereas, an analog watch features three hands to denote the hour, minutes, and seconds. With the advancement in watch technology and research, both analog and digital watches have received significant improvements over the years. Especially in terms of design, endurance, and accompanying features. … At the end of the day, whether you go analog or digital, it’s a personal preference to make based on your style, needs, functions, and budget.”

Read the full essay: Digital vs. Analog Watches—What’s the Difference? at Watch Ranker

AI Art vs. Human Art: A Side-by-Side Analysis

Sample lines: “Art has always been a reflection of human creativity, emotion, and cultural expression. However, with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), a new form of artistic creation has emerged, blurring the lines between what is created by human hands and what is generated by algorithms. … Despite the excitement surrounding AI Art, it also raises complex ethical, legal, and artistic questions that have sparked debates about the definition of art, the role of the artist, and the future of art production. … Regardless of whether AI Art is considered ‘true’ art, it is crucial to embrace and explore the vast possibilities and potential it brings to the table. The transformative influence of AI art on the art world is still unfolding, and only time will reveal its true extent.”

Read the full essay: AI Art vs. Human Art: A Side-by-Side Analysis at Raul Lara

Pop Culture Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Christina aguilera vs. britney spears.

Sample lines: “Britney Spears vs. Christina Aguilera was the Coke vs. Pepsi of 1999 — no, really, Christina repped Coke and Britney shilled for Pepsi. The two teen idols released debut albums seven months apart before the turn of the century, with Britney’s becoming a standard-bearer for bubblegum pop and Aguilera’s taking an R&B bent to show off her range. … It’s clear that Spears and Aguilera took extremely divergent paths following their simultaneous breakout successes.”

Read the full essay: Christina Aguilera vs. Britney Spears at The Ringer

Harry Styles vs. Ed Sheeran

Sample lines: “The world heard our fantasies and delivered us two titans simultaneously—we have been blessed with Ed Sheeran and Harry Styles. Our cup runneth over; our bounty is immeasurable. More remarkable still is the fact that both have released albums almost at the same time: Ed’s third, Divide , was released in March and broke the record for one-day Spotify streams, while Harry’s frenziedly anticipated debut solo, called Harry Styles , was released yesterday.”

Read the full essay: Harry Styles versus Ed Sheeran at Belfast Telegraph

The Grinch: Three Versions Compared

Sample lines: “Based on the original story of the same name, this movie takes a completely different direction by choosing to break away from the cartoony form that Seuss had established by filming the movie in a live-action form. Whoville is preparing for Christmas while the Grinch looks down upon their celebrations in disgust. Like the previous film, The Grinch hatches a plan to ruin Christmas for the Who’s. … Like in the original Grinch, he disguises himself as Santa Claus, and makes his dog, Max, into a reindeer. He then takes all of the presents from the children and households. … Cole’s favorite is the 2000 edition, while Alex has only seen the original. Tell us which one is your favorite.”

Read the full essay: The Grinch: Three Versions Compared at Wooster School

Historical and Political Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Malcolm x vs. martin luther king jr.: comparison between two great leaders’ ideologies .

Sample lines: “Although they were fighting for civil rights at the same time, their ideology and way of fighting were completely distinctive. This can be for a plethora of reasons: background, upbringing, the system of thought, and vision. But keep in mind, they devoted their whole life to the same prospect. … Through boycotts and marches, [King] hoped to end racial segregation. He felt that the abolition of segregation would improve the likelihood of integration. Malcolm X, on the other hand, spearheaded a movement for black empowerment.”

Read the full essay: Malcolm X vs. Martin Luther King Jr.: Comparison Between Two Great Leaders’ Ideologies  at Melaninful

Contrast Between Obama and Trump Has Become Clear

Sample lines: “The contrast is even clearer when we look to the future. Trump promises more tax cuts, more military spending, more deficits and deeper cuts in programs for the vulnerable. He plans to nominate a coal lobbyist to head the Environmental Protection Agency. … Obama says America must move forward, and he praises progressive Democrats for advocating Medicare for all. … With Obama and then Trump, Americans have elected two diametrically opposed leaders leading into two very different directions.”

Read the full essay: Contrast Between Obama and Trump Has Become Clear at Chicago Sun-Times

Sports Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Lebron james vs. kobe bryant: a complete comparison.

Sample lines: “LeBron James has achieved so much in his career that he is seen by many as the greatest of all time, or at least the only player worthy of being mentioned in the GOAT conversation next to Michael Jordan. Bridging the gap between Jordan and LeBron though was Kobe Bryant, who often gets left out of comparisons and GOAT conversations. … Should his name be mentioned more though? Can he compare to LeBron or is The King too far past The Black Mamba in historical rankings already?”

Read the full essay: LeBron James vs. Kobe Bryant: A Complete Comparison at Sportskeeda

NFL: Tom Brady vs. Peyton Manning Rivalry Comparison

Sample lines: “Tom Brady and Peyton Manning were largely considered the best quarterbacks in the NFL for the majority of the time they spent in the league together, with the icons having many head-to-head clashes in the regular season and on the AFC side of the NFL Playoffs. Manning was the leader of the Indianapolis Colts of the AFC South. … Brady spent his career as the QB of the AFC East’s New England Patriots, before taking his talents to Tampa Bay. … The reality is that winning is the most important aspect of any career, and Brady won more head-to-head matchups than Manning did.”

Read the full essay: NFL: Tom Brady vs. Peyton Manning Rivalry Comparison at Sportskeeda

The Greatest NBA Franchise Ever: Boston Celtics or Los Angeles Lakers?

Sample lines: “The Celtics are universally considered as the greatest franchise in NBA history. But if you take a close look at the numbers, there isn’t really too much separation between them and their arch-rival Los Angeles Lakers. In fact, you can even make a good argument for the Lakers. … In 72 seasons played, the Boston Celtics have won a total of 3,314 games and lost 2,305 or a .590 winning mark. On the other hand, the Los Angeles Lakers have won 3,284 of 5,507 total games played or a slightly better winning record of .596. … But while the Lakers have the better winning percentage, the Celtics have the advantage over them in head-to-head competition.”

Read the full essay: The Greatest NBA Franchise Ever: Boston Celtics or Los Angeles Lakers? at Sport One

Is Soccer Better Than Football?

Sample lines: “Is soccer better than football? Soccer and football lovers have numerous reasons to support their sport of choice. Both keep the players physically fit and help to bring people together for an exciting cause. However, soccer has drawn more numbers globally due to its popularity in more countries.”

Read the full essay: Is Soccer Better Than Football? at Sports Brief

Lifestyle Choices Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Mobile home vs. tiny house: similarities, differences, pros & cons.

Sample lines: “Choosing the tiny home lifestyle enables you to spend more time with those you love. The small living space ensures quality bonding time rather than hiding away in a room or behind a computer screen. … You’ll be able to connect closer to nature and find yourself able to travel the country at any given moment. On the other hand, we have the mobile home. … They are built on a chassis with transportation in mind. … They are not built to be moved on a constant basis. … While moving the home again *is* possible, it may cost you several thousand dollars.”

Read the full essay: Mobile Home vs. Tiny House: Similarities, Differences, Pros & Cons at US Mobile Home Pros

Whole Foods vs. Walmart: The Story of Two Grocery Stores

Sample lines: “It is clear that both stores have very different stories and aims when it comes to their customers. Whole Foods looks to provide organic, healthy, exotic, and niche products for an audience with a very particular taste. … Walmart, on the other hand, looks to provide the best deals, every possible product, and every big brand for a broader audience. … Moreover, they look to make buying affordable and accessible, and focus on the capitalist nature of buying.”

Read the full essay: Whole Foods vs. Walmart: The Story of Two Grocery Stores at The Archaeology of Us

Artificial Grass vs. Turf: The Real Differences Revealed

Sample lines: “The key difference between artificial grass and turf is their intended use. Artificial turf is largely intended to be used for sports, so it is shorter and tougher. On the other hand, artificial grass is generally longer, softer and more suited to landscaping purposes. Most homeowners would opt for artificial grass as a replacement for a lawn, for example. Some people actually prefer playing sports on artificial grass, too … artificial grass is often softer and more bouncy, giving it a feel similar to playing on a grassy lawn. … At the end of the day, which one you will choose will depend on your specific household and needs.”

Read the full essay: Artificial Grass vs. Turf: The Real Differences Revealed at Almost Grass

Minimalism vs. Maximalism: Differences, Similarities, and Use Cases

Sample lines: “Maximalists love shopping, especially finding unique pieces. They see it as a hobby—even a skill—and a way to express their personality. Minimalists don’t like shopping and see it as a waste of time and money. They’d instead use those resources to create memorable experiences. Maximalists desire one-of-a-kind possessions. Minimalists are happy with duplicates—for example, personal uniforms. … Minimalism and maximalism are about being intentional with your life and belongings. It’s about making choices based on what’s important to you.”

Read the full essay: Minimalism vs. Maximalism: Differences, Similarities, and Use Cases at Minimalist Vegan

Vegetarian vs. Meat Eating: Is It Better To Be a Vegetarian?

Sample lines: “You’ve heard buzz over the years that following a vegetarian diet is better for your health, and you’ve probably read a few magazine articles featuring a celeb or two who swore off meat and animal products and ‘magically’ lost weight. So does ditching meat automatically equal weight loss? Will it really help you live longer and be healthier overall? … Vegetarians appear to have lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure  and lower rates of hypertension and type 2 diabetes than meat eaters. Vegetarians also tend to have a lower body mass index, lower overall cancer rates and lower risk of chronic disease. But if your vegetarian co-worker is noshing greasy veggie burgers and fries every day for lunch, is he likely to be healthier than you, who always orders the grilled salmon? Definitely not!”

Read the full essay: Vegetarian vs. Meat Eating: Is It Better To Be a Vegetarian? at WebMD

Healthcare Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Similarities and differences between the health systems in australia & usa.

Sample lines: “Australia and the United States are two very different countries. They are far away from each other, have contrasting fauna and flora, differ immensely by population, and have vastly different healthcare systems. The United States has a population of 331 million people, compared to Australia’s population of 25.5 million people.”

Read the full essay: Similarities and Differences Between the Health Systems in Australia & USA at Georgia State University

Universal Healthcare in the United States of America: A Healthy Debate

Sample lines: “Disadvantages of universal healthcare include significant upfront costs and logistical challenges. On the other hand, universal healthcare may lead to a healthier populace, and thus, in the long-term, help to mitigate the economic costs of an unhealthy nation. In particular, substantial health disparities exist in the United States, with low socio-economic status segments of the population subject to decreased access to quality healthcare and increased risk of non-communicable chronic conditions such as obesity and type II diabetes, among other determinants of poor health.”

Read the full essay: Universal Healthcare in the United States of America: A Healthy Debate at National Library of Medicine

Pros and Cons of Physician Aid in Dying

Sample lines: “Physician aid in dying is a controversial subject raising issues central to the role of physicians. … The two most common arguments in favor of legalizing AID are respect for patient autonomy and relief of suffering. A third, related, argument is that AID is a safe medical practice, requiring a health care professional. … Although opponents of AID offer many arguments ranging from pragmatic to philosophical, we focus here on concerns that the expansion of AID might cause additional, unintended harm through suicide contagion, slippery slope, and the deaths of patients suffering from depression.”

Read the full essay: Pros and Cons of Physician Aid in Dying at National Library of Medicine

Animals Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Compare and contrast paragraph—dogs and cats.

Sample lines: “Researchers have found that dogs have about twice the number of neurons in their cerebral cortexes than what cats have. Specifically, dogs had around 530 million neurons, whereas the domestic cat only had 250 million neurons. Moreover, dogs can be trained to learn and respond to our commands, but although your cat understands your name, and anticipates your every move, he/she may choose to ignore you.”

Read the full essay: Compare and Contrast Paragraph—Dogs and Cats at Proofwriting Guru via YouTube

Giddyup! The Differences Between Horses and Dogs

Sample lines: “Horses are prey animals with a deep herding instinct. They are highly sensitive to their environment, hyper aware, and ready to take flight if needed. Just like dogs, some horses are more confident than others, but just like dogs, all need a confident handler to teach them what to do. Some horses are highly reactive and can be spooked by the smallest things, as are dogs. … Another distinction between horses and dogs … was that while dogs have been domesticated , horses have been  tamed. … Both species have influenced our culture more than any other species on the planet.”

Read the full essay: Giddyup! The Differences Between Horses and Dogs at Positively Victoria Stilwell

Exotic, Domesticated, and Wild Pets

Sample lines: “Although the words ‘exotic’ and ‘wild’ are frequently used interchangeably, many people do not fully understand how these categories differ when it comes to pets. ‘A wild animal is an indigenous, non-domesticated animal, meaning that it is native to the country where you are located,’ Blue-McLendon explained. ‘For Texans, white-tailed deer, pronghorn sheep, raccoons, skunks, and bighorn sheep are wild animals … an exotic animal is one that is wild but is from a different continent than where you live.’ For example, a hedgehog in Texas would be considered an exotic animal, but in the hedgehog’s native country, it would be considered wildlife.”

Read the full essay: Exotic, Domesticated, and Wild Pets at Texas A&M University

Should Zoos Be Banned? Pros & Cons of Zoos

Sample lines: “The pros and cons of zoos often come from two very different points of view. From a legal standard, animals are often treated as property. That means they have less rights than humans, so a zoo seems like a positive place to maintain a high quality of life. For others, the forced enclosure of any animal feels like an unethical decision. … Zoos provide a protected environment for endangered animals, and also help in raising awareness and funding for wildlife initiatives and research projects. … Zoos are key for research. Being able to observe and study animals is crucial if we want to contribute to help them and repair the ecosystems. … Zoos are a typical form of family entertainment, but associating leisure and fun with the contemplation of animals in captivity can send the wrong signals to our children.”

Read the full essay: Should Zoos Be Banned? Pros & Cons of Zoos at EcoCation

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80 Intriguing Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for Kids and Teens

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5 Compare and Contrast Essay Examples (Full Text)

A compare and contrast essay selects two or more items that are critically analyzed to demonstrate their differences and similarities. Here is a template for you that provides the general structure:

A range of example essays is presented below.

Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

#1 jean piaget vs lev vygotsky essay.

1480 Words | 5 Pages | 10 References

(Level: University Undergraduate)

Thesis Statement: “This essay will critically examine and compare the developmental theories of Jean Piaget and Lev Vygotsky, focusing on their differing views on cognitive development in children and their influence on educational psychology, through an exploration of key concepts such as the role of culture and environment, scaffolding, equilibration, and their overall implications for educational practices..”

#2 Democracy vs Authoritarianism Essay

Thesis Statement: “The thesis of this analysis is that, despite the efficiency and control offered by authoritarian regimes, democratic systems, with their emphasis on individual freedoms, participatory governance, and social welfare, present a more balanced and ethically sound approach to governance, better aligned with the ideals of a just and progressive society.”

#3 Apples vs Oranges Essay

1190 Words | 5 Pages | 0 References

(Level: 4th Grade, 5th Grade, 6th Grade)

Thesis Statement: “While apples and oranges are both popular and nutritious fruits, they differ significantly in their taste profiles, nutritional benefits, cultural symbolism, and culinary applications.”

#4 Nature vs Nurture Essay

1525 Words | 5 Pages | 11 References

(Level: High School and College)

Thesis Statement: “The purpose of this essay is to examine and elucidate the complex and interconnected roles of genetic inheritance (nature) and environmental influences (nurture) in shaping human development across various domains such as physical traits, personality, behavior, intelligence, and abilities.”

#5 Dogs vs Cats Essay

1095 Words | 5 Pages | 7 Bibliographic Sources

(Level: 6th Grade, 7th Grade, 8th Grade)

Thesis Statement: “This essay explores the distinctive characteristics, emotional connections, and lifestyle considerations associated with owning dogs and cats, aiming to illuminate the unique joys and benefits each pet brings to their human companions.”

How to Write a Compare and Contrast Essay

I’ve recorded a full video for you on how to write a compare and contrast essay:

Get the Compare and Contrast Templates with AI Prompts Here

In the video, I outline the steps to writing your essay. Here they are explained below:

1. Essay Planning

First, I recommend using my compare and contrast worksheet, which acts like a Venn Diagram, walking you through the steps of comparing the similarities and differences of the concepts or items you’re comparing.

I recommend selecting 3-5 features that can be compared, as shown in the worksheet:

Grab the Worksheet as Part of the Compare and Contrast Essay Writing Pack

2. Writing the Essay

Once you’ve completed the worksheet, you’re ready to start writing. Go systematically through each feature you are comparing and discuss the similarities and differences, then make an evaluative statement after showing your depth of knowledge:

Get the Rest of the Premium Compare and Contrast Essay Writing Pack (With AI Prompts) Here

How to Write a Compare and Contrast Thesis Statement

Compare and contrast thesis statements can either:

• Remain neutral in an expository tone.
• Prosecute an argument about which of the items you’re comparing is overall best.

To write an argumentative thesis statement for a compare and contrast essay, try this AI Prompts:

💡 AI Prompt to Generate Ideas I am writing a compare and contrast essay that compares [Concept 1] and [Concept2]. Give me 5 potential single-sentence thesis statements that pass a reasonable judgement.

Ready to Write your Essay?

Take action! Choose one of the following options to start writing your compare and contrast essay now:

Read Next: Process Essay Examples

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How to Write a Compare and Contrast Essay

WHAT IS A COMPARE AND CONTRAST ESSAY?

Essentially, compare and contrast essays ask students to evaluate the similarities and differences between two things.

Usually, there will be some meaningful connection between the two things to be compared and contrasted.

These essays are not merely about stating the obvious; instead, they challenge the students to explore two or more topics and then express subtle similarities and understated differences that may not be immediately obvious to the casual reader.

For example, there is little point in asking students to  compare and contrast  a computer and a bicycle.

Both are material objects, but the extreme differences are obvious apart from that. More useful would be to ask students to compare and contrast two different models of computers or two different brands of bicycles to help them decide which to buy.

Compare and contrast essays encourage students to make distinctions and evaluate things that largely belong in the same category. This is an instrumental and practical skill to develop.

In this article, we will explore how to approach the writing of compare-and-contrast essays in a step-by-step manner. Following this method, students can soon write a well-structured compare-and-contrast essay on practically any topic.

Let’s get started.

A COMPLETE UNIT ON COMPARE AND CONTRAST ESSAY WRITING

Teach your students how to write amazing compare and contrast essays with this  COMPLETE UNIT  of work which guides students through the process of research, analysis and articulating their thoughts into a well-structured essay.

IT INCLUDES

HOW TO WRITE A COMPARE & CONTRAST ESSAY

1. understand your task and purpose.

Compare, and contrast type questions ask students to do one of three things:

• To compare two or more things.
• To contrast two or more things.
• To compare and contrast two or more things.

For the purposes of this article, we’ll assume the compare and contrast essay is focused on comparing and contrasting two things.

Now, let’s break down the two keywords to examine what they ask the students to do:

Compare asks the students to look at two things in relation to their similarities.

Let’s compare apples and oranges as a quick example.

Apples and oranges have many commonalities. Firstly, they are both fruits that are grown on trees. They are also both a popular and tasty food choice for many people.

Additionally, apples and oranges are nutritious and provide essential vitamins and minerals for our bodies.

Finally, apples and oranges can be used in various recipes, from baked goods to juices, and they are both easily accessible and affordable. So, even though apples and oranges are different in many ways, they both have some similarities that make them essential parts of a healthy and balanced diet.

Contrast asks the students to examine how the two things differ. Let’s now explore the differences in a quick written example.

Apples and oranges differ in many ways. Firstly, they have a different appearance – apples are round and come in different colors like red, green and yellow, while oranges are oval and have a bright orange appearance.

Secondly, they have a different texture – apples are crunchy, while oranges are juicy. They have different tastes – apples are sweet and tangy, while oranges are sweet and slightly sour.

They also contain different vitamins and minerals – apples are a good source of vitamin C, while oranges are a great source of vitamin C and fibre. So, even though they are both fruits, apples and oranges are different in terms of their appearance, taste, and nutritional value.

It is important that students do both when they are asked a compare-and-contrast question. It may seem obvious, but very often students do one and neglect to do the other.

These ‘things’ could be anything from historical figures to poems, philosophies to fictional characters, but the essential criteria will remain pretty much the same regardless.

2. Identify Similarities and Differences

The starting point for planning this type of essay is to list the similarities and differences between the two things. This can be done simply in table form or, for the more visually orientated, in the form of a Venn diagram.

Venn diagrams are an especially useful form of graphic organizer that allows the student to see the information at a glance. This is extremely helpful while students are writing.

Brainstorming the similarities and differences can be done by focusing on one subject at a time or by dealing with common traits or features one by one. This will depend not just on the student’s preferences but on the nature of the subjects being examined.

Whether listing the similarities and differences in columns or on a Venn diagram, it’s helpful for students to keep their list of characteristics parallel. That is, the related features between each of the subjects should be displayed clearly together.

3. Choose a Suitable Organizational Structure

Once your students have listed their main points, they need to choose a suitable organizational structure to help present their ideas in essay form.

In most instances, one of two structures will best meet the needs of any compare-and-contrast type essay. These two possible organizational structures are:

• The block structure
• The point-by-point structure

In the block structure, each subject is dealt with in turn. That is, the characteristics of Subject 1 are written about first and, in the second half of the essay, the characteristics of Subject 2 are written about.

The block structure is generally easier to write as the student need only focus on one subject at a time.

However, the point-by-point structure more often provides a clearer vehicle for comparing and contrasting the various aspects of both subjects.

Using the point-by-point structure generally requires more skill from the student to weave the similarities and differences of each subject into the fabric of each paragraph. However, it is also the default setting for most compare and contrast essays, and students should be practised in it accordingly.

4. Gather Supporting Evidence

Once students have analyzed the question and identified the similarities and differences between the two subjects, they’ll need to gather supporting evidence to back up any assertions they make in their essays.

Students can use many different types of evidence to support the statements in their essays.

Some of the most common types of evidence in compare and contrast essays include statistical, textual, testimonial, and anecdotal evidence.

Let’s take a closer look:

Statistical Evidence is perhaps the strongest type of evidence that can be used to support an argument. People like numbers! However, the most important aspect of using statistical evidence is that they come from a reliable source – those cynical of statistics echo the old adage, “ There are three kinds of lies: lies, damned lies, and statistics ”.

Textual Evidence is often needed to support an argument, especially when writing about a book, a play, a speech, etc. When using textual evidence in an essay, it is important that students state clearly the source of the evidence they use. Textual evidence can come in many different forms, including:

●     Direct quotations from a text

●     Summaries of the content of a text

●     Paraphrasing of what an author has said on a topic.

Testimonial Evidence refers to the use of expert opinion to bolster an assertion. As with the use of statistical evidence, it is important to select the sources in question carefully. Selecting an unreliable or compromised ‘expert’ can call into question the merit of any argument made. When an expert has been chosen to provide testimonial type evidence, students should establish their credibility by stating who they are and why they are considered an expert before quoting them.

Anecdotal Evidence is often considered to be the weakest form of evidence due to its highly personal nature. Basically, anecdotal evidence takes the form of the retelling of a personal experience. Though it is often criticized as a weak form of evidence, it can be useful when used correctly in an essay. Anecdotes often work well as a ‘hook’ to grab the reader’s attention at the beginning of an essay. Not only do they grab the reader’s attention effectively, but anecdotes also work well in building a personal connection with readers from the outset.

5. Compare and Contrast Essay Transitional Language

Nothing makes a text staler for a reader than the overuse of favorite words and the endless repetition of pet phrases.

Variety is the spice of not only life but of essay writing too. As students weave comparisons and contrast into their essays, they’ll be required to employ transition signals to introduce their points.

Transition signals are words and phrases that are used to signal the relationship between ideas in a text to the reader. It is helpful to students to have a variety of these to hand and to know which can be used to introduce comparisons and which can be used to introduce contrasts.

Let’s take a look at some examples for each:

Comparison Transition Signals

• Both…and…
• Neither…nor…
• Just as / Just like
• In a similar manner
• Analogous to

Contrasting Transition Signals

• In contrast to / Contrastingly / In comparison / By comparison
• On the contrary
• On the other hand
• Nevertheless

Tips for Writing a Great Compare and Contrast Essay

• Start by choosing two logical subjects that you would like to compare and contrast.
• Research both subjects thoroughly to gain a deeper understanding of their similarities and differences.
• Create a clear and compelling thesis statement that defines the purpose of your essay.
• Organize your essay into paragraphs that compare and contrast specific aspects of each subject.
• Use relevant and appropriate examples to support your comparisons and contrasts.
• Use transitional words and phrases to help guide the reader through your essay.
• Avoid simply listing the similarities and differences of each subject. Instead, focus on making meaningful comparisons and contrasts.
• Use a variety of sentence structures and vocabulary to make your writing engaging and interesting.
• Revise and edit your essay for clarity, coherence, and grammatical correctness.
• Proofread your essay one final time to catch any remaining errors and make sure that your essay is ready for submission.

Remember, writing a compare and contrast essay is an opportunity to show your creativity, critical thinking skills, and writing abilities. So, have fun with it and let your unique voice shine through!

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Teaching Resources

Use our resources and tools to improve your student’s writing skills through proven teaching strategies.

COMPARE AND CONTRAST TEACHING STRATEGIES AND ACTIVITIES

Compare and Contrast Activity #1

Students should get into the habit of closely examining the question they are writing the essay in response to, especially in high-pressure situations like exams.

Too often, students under pressure misread essay prompts and either miss out on a crucial aspect of the set question or, worst of all, answer an entirely different question to the one that was set.

To help students focus on the specifics of the question, encourage them to underline keywords and phrases with a highlighter or a colored pen.

Another great way to encourage students to focus attention on the specifics is to have students practice rewriting the question in their own words.

While this may not be practical in an exam situation, it is a great way for students to get accustomed to paying close attention to essay questions in less pressured scenarios such as homework and classwork.

Compare and Contrast Activity # 2

Set a compare and contrast question and then instruct your students to use a Venn diagram as a brainstorming tool to help organize their ideas.

Students should draw two circles slightly overlapping and write down things the subjects share in common in the intersection of the two circles. This will enable students to see areas of commonality and divergence between the two subjects at a glance.

Compare and Contrast Activity # 3

Students can use the information they produced in the previous two activities for this activity.

In this activity, students will draft three paragraphs for a compare-and-contrast essay using the point-by-point structure.

To do this, they will use the traditional five-paragraph essay structure as follows:

• Paragraph 1: Introduction
• Paragraphs 2, 3, & 4: Body Paragraphs
• Paragraph 5: Conclusion

The focus of your students’ outlines will be on the body paragraphs. From the points listed in the previous exercises, students select 3 main points to focus on; one for each of the body paragraphs they’ll write.

Instruct students to make their point by focusing on Subject 1 first, and then on Subject 2. This will complete the first paragraph. They’ll then repeat this process for points 2 and 3 to produce paragraphs 2 and 3.

At the end of this, they will have the three body paragraphs of their compare and contrast essay. From there, they can then reverse engineer their introduction and then complete their conclusions.

This exercise is a useful way to provide students some practice in structuring body paragraphs. Not only that, but it’s also a legitimate way to write an essay itself. This method can often reveal to the writer the best way forward when it comes to writing the introduction and conclusion.

Compare and Contrast Activity #4

Using the points outlined in previous activities, challenge students to produce as many types of evidence in support of each assertion as possible. In groups, students can then present their evidence to each other and discuss which is the most convincing and why given the specific context.

Compare and Contrast Activity # 5

Whether making comparisons or contrasts, students must consider carefully which criteria they are using in regards to the two subjects they are dealing with.

For example, if students are contrasting two subjects, say, two people, they may write something like,

Alfred is intelligent and handsome, whereas Brian is short and strong.

While the use of the transition signal whereas in the above sentence effectively sets up a contrast between Alfred and Brian, what isn’t clear is which criteria are being contrasted.

When discussing Alfred’s attributes in the first part of the sentence, the criteria employed are intelligence and looks. In the second part of the sentence, two new criteria are introduced, namely height and physical strength.

This is one of the most common errors made by students in these types of essays. To help students gain practice in this area, write a few example sentences on the whiteboard using the model sentence above to help. Then, have students identify the four different criteria and write two separate contrast sentences that avoid the error illustrated.

For example, in response to the model sentence, students might write the following two corrections:

i. Alfred is intelligent and handsome, whereas Brian is stupid and ugly.

ii. Brian is short and strong, while Alfred is tall and weak.

You can encourage students to vary the contrast transition signals they use to gain practice in this area too.

Compare and Contrast Essay ExampleS (student Writing Samples)

Below are a collection of student writing samples of compare and contrast essay.  Click on the image to enlarge and explore them in greater detail.  Please take a moment to read both the compare and contrast essays in detail and the teacher and student guides highlighting some key elements to consider before writing.

Please understand these student writing samples are not intended to be perfect examples for each age or grade level but a piece of writing for students and teachers to explore together to critically analyze to improve student writing skills and deepen their understanding of compare and contrast writing.

We would recommend reading the example either a year above and below, as well as the grade you are currently working with, to gain a broader appreciation of this text type.

In Conclusion 

While there are many technical aspects for students to master on the road to producing well-written compare and contrast essays, the above provides a clear signpost to set them off in the right direction.

Most of the specific skills focused on in the practice activities above will not only improve your student’s abilities to write compare-and-contrast-type essays but will improve their writing in other areas too. Just be sure to offer ample opportunities to practice!

ESSAY WRITING CHECKLIST & RUBRIC BUNDLE

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COMPARE AND CONTRAST ESSAY TUTORIAL VIDEOS

101 Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Great Ideas for Essays

• Teaching Resources
• An Introduction to Teaching
• Tips & Strategies
• Policies & Discipline
• Community Involvement
• School Administration
• Technology in the Classroom
• Teaching Adult Learners
• Issues In Education
• Becoming A Teacher
• Assessments & Tests
• Elementary Education
• Secondary Education
• Special Education
• Homeschooling
• M.Ed., Curriculum and Instruction, University of Florida
• B.A., History, University of Florida

Compare and contrast essays are taught in school for many reasons. For one thing, they are relatively easy to teach, understand, and format. Students can typically understand the structure with just a short amount of instruction. In addition, these essays allow students develop critical thinking skills to approach a variety of topics.

Brainstorming Tip

One fun way to get students started brainstorming their compare and contrast essays is to create a Venn diagram , where the overlapping sections of the circle contain similarities and the non-overlapping areas contain the differing traits.

Following is a list of 101 topics for compare and contrast essays that you are welcome to use in your classroom. As you look through the list you will see that some items are academic in nature while others are included for interest-building and fun writing activities.

• Apple vs. Microsoft
• Coke vs. Pepsi
• Renaissance Art vs. Baroque Art
• Antebellum Era vs. Reconstruction Era in American History
• Childhood vs. Adulthood
• Star Wars vs. Star Trek
• Biology vs. Chemistry
• Astrology vs. Astronomy
• American Government vs. British Government (or any world government)
• Fruits vs. Vegetables
• Dogs vs. Cats
• Ego vs. Superego
• Christianity vs. Judaism (or any world religion )
• Republican vs. Democrat
• Monarchy vs. Presidency
• US President vs. UK Prime Minister
• Jazz vs. Classical Music
• Red vs. White (or any two colors)
• Soccer vs. Football
• North vs. South Before the Civil War
• New England Colonies vs. Middle Colonies OR vs. Southern Colonies
• Cash vs. Credit Cards
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• Regulatory Science in Action

Gadolinium-based contrast agents for MRI: safety in pregnancy

By carefully assembling and analyzing real-world evidence, FDA/CDER assessed potential serious risks of using gadolinium-based contrast agents for MRI during pregnancy.

Although clinical trials provide crucial evidence that a drug is safe and effective, drug toxicities sometimes become evident only after marketed use, when rare but serious adverse effects may be reported. To help ensure drugs are safe for patients, FDA continually monitors approved drugs under real-world conditions, and the Agency may update drug labeling or even withdraw a product from the market based on new findings. Much of the evidence pertaining to real-world experience with a drug comes from spontaneous reports to FDA’s Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS), but CDER may also proactively address safety concerns by analyzing the data in patient medical records and information collected in the course of routine health care.

Safety concerns for gadolinium-based contrast agents

Gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) are intravenous (or IV) drugs that are given to an estimated 30-45% of patients undergoing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to provide detailed images. Because of its toxicity, gadolinium is complexed with a molecule called a chelator (figure 1) when used as a contrast agent. The chelator reduces toxicity by minimizing unbound gadolinium, which makes gadolinium less likely to interact with tissues in the body before the kidneys eliminate the contrast agent. However, chelators do not completely prevent patient exposure to gadolinium. Gadolinium complexed with other molecules can be found in very small amounts in various organs and tissues of patients who receive GBCAs. No long-term clinical consequences of gadolinium exposure in healthy individuals have been identified. As a precaution, FDA required medication guides for GBCAs. These guides outline what is known about the toxicities of these products and indicate that “people who get many doses of gadolinium medicines, women who are pregnant and young children may be at increased risk from gadolinium staying in the body.”

From clinical studies and initial marketing experience, adverse reactions attributed to GBCAs were described as short-term events and often categorized as allergic. However, in 2006, nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF), a potentially fatal disease that occurs mainly in patients with chronic kidney disease or acute kidney failure who had undergone GBCA-MRI, was described. Currently, researchers believe that retention of gadolinium due to impaired renal function or other precipitating risk factors such as inflammation can lead to NSF, which is characterized by thickening and hardening (fibrosis) of the skin, subcutaneous tissues, and sometimes underlying skeletal muscle. There may also be serious damage to other organs, including the lungs and the heart. Boxed warnings were added to product labeling to restrict GBCA use in patients with severe renal impairment, and the number of reported NSF cases reported annually has decreased.

The scientific challenge

In 2016, a study based on health care data in Ontario, Canada, reported that GBCA-MRI exposure during pregnancy was associated with greater risk for fetal or neonatal death and rheumatological, inflammatory or infiltrative skin conditions [1]. Subsequently, an FDA-led study identified one gadolinium-exposure in-utero for every 860 pregnancies (0.12% of all pregnancies) [2]. The majority of exposures were during the first few weeks of pregnancy, a time when individuals may not know they are pregnant. FDA-approved labeling for all GBCAs was updated to state that GBCA administration should be considered during pregnancy only if imaging was essential and should not be delayed. However, for pregnant women and the clinicians who treated them, serious uncertainties remained when deciding whether a GBCA-MRI was appropriate. Limitations of the Canadian study of GBCAs in pregnant women included insufficient sample size to support a statistical comparison of contrast MRI vs non-contrast MRI, and inadequate control for the reason MRI was administered (due to missing information).

To address this research question, FDA/CDER conducted a study in collaboration with researchers at the University of Florida using data from Medicaid insurance claims and linked medical records for more than 11 million pregnancies [3]. Pregnant women whose medical history indicated that their fetuses might be at greater risk for adverse effects (for example, those whose MRI was for pelvic examination) were excluded. The final cohort of patients consisted of 782 women who had received a GBCA-MRI while pregnant and 5,209 who were exposed to MRI without GBCA while pregnant. The primary endpoint was fetal death or infant death shortly after birth (information for the latter outcome was obtained from the National Death Index or Medicaid records). A secondary endpoint was admission to the neonatal intensive care unit within seven days of birth. The investigators used a statistical technique called propensity score matching to adjust for potential confounding patient variables, such as comorbidities, pregnancy characteristics, ultrasound history, and prenatal vitamin use.

Study results and practice implications

After adjustment for potential confounding variables, the study did not identify a difference in the risk of fetal or neonatal death associated with exposure to GBCA-MRI. The risk for the patients who received a GBCA appeared similar to those who received MRI without contrast (RR = 0.73, Table 1). Similar results were obtained for the secondary outcome measured in the study, i.e., GBCAs did not appear to increase the risk that newborns who had been exposed to GBCAs were admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit.

Adjusted risks of fetal or neonatal death or NICU admission with GBCA

Reassuringly, the risk estimates did not change substantially in sensitivity analyses. The study authors concluded that gadolinium use during pregnancy should be limited and used in accordance with professional society guidelines. They also pointed out that, because there is gadolinium retention in various tissues, the impact of exposure on subacute and chronic adverse outcomes in infants remains unknown and needs further study.

This study also highlights the critical importance of the medical data that are collected during patient care for monitoring the safety of medical products. CDER is working with interested parties to make sure that these data become more standardized, interoperable, transparent and are easily linked to other kinds of data in support of studies like the one described here.

How does this research advance the safe and effective use of drugs? This RWE study of medical data from over 11 million women enrolled in Medicaid can provide valuable information to clinicians and their patients as they weigh the risks and benefits of gadolinium MRI procedures for imaging during pregnancy.

1 In this study, adjusted and unadjusted results were also highly similar for the planned outcomes. 2 In sensitivity analyses, researchers assess how sensitive the results are to changes in how the analysis is conducted and its underlying assumptions and design. For example, in this study the investigators compared the number of admissions to a neonatal ICU within seven days after birth. One sensitivity analysis consisted of using a window of 30 days to measure ICU admissions and the results were similar to those obtained in the main analysis.

[1] Ray JG, Vermeulen MJ, Bharatha A, Montanera WJ, Park AL. Association between MRI exposure during pregnancy and fetal and childhood outcomes. JAMA 2016;316(9):952-61. [2] Bird ST, Gelperin K, Sahin L, Bleich KB, Fazio-Eynullayeva E, Woods C, Radden E, Greene P, McCloskey C, Johnson T, Shinde, M. First-trimester exposure to gadolinium-based contrast agents: a utilization study of 4.6 million US pregnancies. Radiology, 2019;293(1):193-200. [3] Winterstein AG, Thai TN, Nduaguba S, Smolinski NE, Wang X, Sahin L, Krefting I, Gelperin K, Bird ST, Rasmussen SA. Risk of fetal or neonatal death or neonatal intensive care unit admission associated with gadolinium magnetic resonance imaging exposure during pregnancy. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2023;228(4):465-e1-11.