A compare and contrast essay focuses on how two ideas are both similar and different. The thesis statement works to set up the main ideas that will be discussed throughout the essay. The thesis statement clearly states what is being compared and contrasted in this essay.
The thesis will outline two (or more) subjects you plan to compare or contrast and the purpose behind the comparison. Your thesis might focus more on comparison or contrast, depending on the purpose of your essay. Overall, you simply want to be sure that you’re providing useful information to your reader. For example, you might use a thesis like this:
While organic vegetables are marketed as environmentally friendly and a healthier option, the differences between organic and conventional vegetables are not significant enough to offset the cost of buying organic.
This thesis clearly states that it will compare organic and conventional vegetables for the purpose of helping the reader make a decision about which kind of vegetable to purchase.
Steps to Writing Your Thesis Statement:
Identify two subjects/concepts to be compared and/or contrasted.
Identify three points of comparison. These will be the topics of each body paragraph.
Formula: Subject 1 + Subject 2 + Three Points of Similarity and differences = Thesis Statement
Example: “When deciding whether to attend school in the traditional classroom or opt for a virtual learning experience, it is important to consider the social implications, the school environment, and the hidden costs.”