A compare and contrast essay outline is a written format of what we humans do day in and day out when trying to decide between two choices that could benefit us. We are often asked to make a choice between two items. Our minds then work towards making a measured choice based on how we perceive the two items in the context of what they could offer. Eventually a choice is made. To help in this process, an essay outline could assemble thoughts into a format that is easy to compile.

When writing compare and contrast essays, you would have to identify the points of comparison. Once you do that, it becomes easy to list out points for and against each point. There are some adjustments you need to do to identify the two points correctly. Think of the benefits it would provide you comparatively. If you are not directly benefiting from it, think like a reader and list out points that would benefit them. Make sure you have the right compare and contrast essay topics or points. It would otherwise be difficult for you to establish logical comparisons between the two.

To establish the right compare and contrast essay format, you write an introduction with a thesis statement that instantly draws attention. For example, health is a major concern in the world. Individuals constantly have to make a choice between the so called “health food” and “junk food.” Many try to balance between the two and in trying to do so indirectly prepare themselves with all important decisions in their lives. Before you start writing, refer to a sample compare and contrast essay to get a better idea.

The process of writing a compare and contrast essay paragraph continues with a preview of the points you are going to debate upon. The body of the essay then expands on each point in detail. These would be attributes that branch out into descriptions about it. For example, in our earlier topic of “health food” and “junk food,” one of the attributes that could be thought of is health consciousness. The example you form related to this attribute should define your choice. To lose weight, you find that you need to have “health food,” while the taste of “junk food” is difficult to resist. You can then write about each attribute in different paragraphs.

Once you have completed the process of writing the outline, read through it and make sure you have the correct logic throughout the essay. Each point should relate and connect with the thesis statement. When the logic is established, you would have written a good essay. Edit and check for grammatical mistakes. Use your own unique writing style. Form a sentence structure that is easy to read and includes simple vocabulary. Basically, readers should not have to refer to other sources to understand what you have written.

The conclusion of your compare and contrast essay should restate the thesis statement without introducing any new topic which is likely to leave the essay incomplete and confuse readers. The success of the essay could be measured by a call for action to readers to accept the viewpoint you have chosen.

This post originally appeared on http://paramountessays.com/blog/essay/compare-and-contrast-essay-outline