5 Secrets For Composing An Introduction For A Comparative Essay


A Comparative Essay, Also Called A Compare And Contrast Essay Is Used In Various Kinds Of Assignments In Schools As Well As Colleges. In this type of an essay, a student usually analyzes any two subjects in a comparative manner, produced critically, and points out similarities or dissimilarities. Such an essay can be just comparative (similarities), only contrasting (differences) or both comparative and contrasting.

Like most other essays, comparative essay has its own structure. It comprises of introduction, comparison point 1, comparison point 2, comparison point 3 (especially if you have both compare and contrast style), and conclusion. While the whole structure is very important, introduction is probably the most important because it sets the tone for the rest of your essay. Here are a few secrets to writing a good introduction:

  1. Grab attention of the reader
  2. There would be no point to your essay if your reader is not interested in it. To do that, your introduction has to be something that grabs your reader’s attention. There are a few ways of doing it. For example, you can give a brief historical review of the topic you are writing on. You can incorporate a surprise element to it by dropping a shocking statement or even something disgusting at times!

  3. Clear and concise
  4. Remember that this is an introduction. While your topic should be clear to your reader, you shouldn’t go in too many details; otherwise, there will be no point to your essay. State what your essay is all about without giving up a lot of information.

  5. Use proper definitions (dictionary or encyclopedia)
  6. There is every chance that during your introduction, you’ll define some important part of your essay. While doing so, quote from a dictionary or encyclopedia instead of writing one on your own. This lends credibility to your point as well.

  7. Start with some background
  8. While stating what your essay is about, there should be references to events or any point from the past to make your essay more interesting. This will also help you flesh out your essay.

  9. State your thesis
  10. A very important task in this part of the essay is to craft a thesis statement. It is important that the crux of your paper or essay is highlighted through your thesis. Your thesis should carry the weight of your essay, but shouldn’t explain everything that’s there.



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