Compare and contrast essay outline template
A compare and contrast essay outline uses one of two structures. Point by point covers one feature at a time for both subjects. Block covers all of subject A, then all of subject B. Point by point suits most essays. Pick a structure and fill in the template.
You compare features one at a time. Best for most essays.
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Before you submit
Starting from a blank document? Set it up yourself
In Microsoft Word
- Open a new document and type the two subjects and the purpose of the comparison.
- Use Home, Multilevel List, I., A., 1., a. for the numbering.
- For point by point: one top level item per point, with A for subject A, B for subject B and C for what they show together.
- For block: one top level item for subject A with its points, then one for subject B with the same points, then a comparison section.
In Google Docs
- Open a new document and type the two subjects and the purpose of the comparison.
- Use Format, Bullets and numbering, Numbered list for the numbering.
- For point by point: one top level item per point, with A for subject A, B for subject B and C for what they show together.
- For block: one top level item for subject A with its points, then one for subject B with the same points, then a comparison section.
Filled-in example
Sample content for illustration. Do not cite.Filled-in example
a worked point-by-point outline on a sample comparison. Sample content only.
Which structure should I use?
Point-by-point: discuss one feature at a time and compare both subjects under it. Best for detailed comparisons and longer essays, because the reader sees each comparison directly.
Block: discuss everything about Subject A, then everything about Subject B. Best for shorter essays and simpler subjects.
How to use this template
Download the Word file or choose Copy to Google Docs to get your own editable copy.
Choose two subjects that have enough in common to compare, and decide the purpose of the comparison.
List the features you will compare (cost, effect, history, method and so on). Pick the three that matter most.
Write a thesis that says more than “A and B are similar and different.” Say what the comparison shows.
Choose point-by-point or block, and fill in the matching version of the template.
Check that you have given the same attention to both subjects and that the conclusion draws a point from the comparison.
Rules at a glance
Element | Guidance |
|---|---|
Thesis | States the main finding of the comparison, not only that there are similarities and differences |
Basis of comparison | The same set of features applied to both subjects |
Point-by-point | Alternates between subjects within each point. Clearer for the reader |
Block | Covers each subject in full, then compares. Simpler for short essays |
Transitions | Use comparison words such as similarly, likewise, in contrast, however, whereas |
Balance | Roughly equal length and depth for each subject |
Common mistakes
A thesis that only announces the comparison. Say what the comparison shows.
Comparing unlike things with no shared basis. Choose features that apply to both subjects.
Describing each subject separately in a point-by-point essay, so the reader has to make the comparison.
Unequal treatment, where one subject gets three paragraphs and the other gets one.
Listing similarities and differences with no analysis. Say why each matters.
A conclusion that repeats the body. Finish with what the comparison means.
Frequently asked questions
What is a compare and contrast essay outline?
It is a plan for an essay that examines the similarities and differences between two subjects. It sets out your thesis, the features you compare, and how you organize them.
What is the difference between point-by-point and block structure?
Point-by-point alternates between the two subjects under each feature. Block covers all of Subject A first, then all of Subject B. Point-by-point suits detailed comparisons; block suits shorter, simpler ones.
How many points should I compare?
Three is typical for a five-paragraph essay. Longer essays may have more. Choose points that matter to your thesis rather than listing everything you can find.
How do I write a thesis for a compare and contrast essay?
Name both subjects and state what the comparison shows, for example the most important difference or a surprising similarity. Avoid “A and B have many similarities and differences.”
Can I use a Venn diagram to plan?
Yes. A Venn diagram is useful for brainstorming what the subjects share and where they differ. Then turn the overlaps and differences into the points of your outline.
Which words signal comparison and contrast?
For similarity: similarly, likewise, both, also. For difference: however, in contrast, unlike, whereas, on the other hand.
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Sentence or topic outline for a research paper.Structure follows standard guidance on comparison essays from university writing centers (for example the Purdue OWL and the UNC Writing Center). Last reviewed October 2026.
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Plan your sections, see your headings with word counts as you write, and keep a short brief for each section next to your text. Export to Word when you’re done.
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