Writing Compare and Contrast Intros – Geil’s Notes
1. Lead
2. Background Info (the TAG – title, author, genre)
3. Thesis
Remember, although there are three parts, it doesn’t have to be just three sentences.
Framework Thesis Statements for Compare and Contrast Papers

Both _______ and _______ use _______, _______, and _______ to develop _______. _______
creates _______ through the use of these devices; however, _______ creates _______ through the use
of similar/different devices.

While _______ uses _______, _______, and _______ to create _______, _______ uses the _______,
_______, and _______ to create _______. Thus, although dealing with the same _______, they reach
_______ outcomes.

While _______ views _______ as _______, _______ views _______ as _______. Both authors
achieve this _______ through their use of _______, _______, and _______. (add detail at the end by
comparing and contrasting the literary devices using adjectives) Ex. However, _______ uses _______
imagery, _______ point of view, and _______ structure, while _______ uses ….

Both _______ and _______ address the topic of _______ through their use of _______, _______, and
_______; however, these devices are used to achieve divergent purposes. _______ creates _______,
while _______ creates _______ resulting in similar/different _______.
Important Note – if you want to punch up your thesis statement, add an adjective to your literary devices. So
instead of just writing “tone”, be specific and write “melancholy tone”. The added specificity will make your
paper much stronger. Also, make sure that you have an affect or purpose for these devices – don’t just say
that they use them.
As you can see, there are lots of different ways to write the thesis, and sometimes by moving or adding just a
few things, you can create your own variation, which can help frame your own voice and style. Be creative, but
remember to create an argument and clearly address the prompt.
Sample Thesis Statements:

McDonald’s cheeseburgers employ the classic look, taste, and appeal that one expects from a fast-food
restaurant; this results in an unsatisfying, homogenous, boring dining experience. On the other hand, In
and Out uses the same three qualities, but refreshes them with quality, freshness, and care. This results
in an overwhelming satisfying, diverse, and exciting dining experience.
Note – check out the parallel structure with the adjectives. A good quality to mirror.

Totalitarian dictators inherently share a governmental structure, impacts on the larger society, and
present a similar image to the public. Hitler and Stalin share these similarities, thus demonstrating that
regardless of political party, totalitarianism results in corruption, fear, and propaganda.
Note – this thesis is driven more towards the similarities.