Introduction
When writing a compare and contrast essay one thing that should come to mind is that two dissimilar issues require that one bring out distinction and alikeness if any. In this case, Art history and information technology have no connection. The writer must choose the specific aspects in the two subjects he/she intends to compare. This is because it is not practical to compare two issues as a whole. Another thing to note is that the essay has to be divided into three parts including the introduction, body, and conclusion. (Reif-Lehrer, 2004).
The writing processes. Brainstorming
The writing process of a compare and contrast essay is pretty much similar to another essay only that in the thesis statement, the writer must provide his opinion on the subject and perhaps sustain it throughout the essay then organize the data into a coherently flowing piece so that it yields a meaningful argument (Essay writing Tips, 2007). After the thesis statement one may choose to concentrate on each subject separately and discussing each fully then give a summary of the basic elements of contrast and similarity. There are various ways of delivering each paragraph in your compare and contrast essay namely; one-side-at-a-time format, the point-by-point format, and the analogy format. Art history and information technology fall in the category of an analogy because there is nothing similar in the two disciplines.
Before indulging in the writing process the writer will brainstorm on the topic by asking him/herself some basic questions. (www.rscc.cc.tn.us) For example; what do art history and information technology have in common? What do I already know about the two subjects? What needs to be researched? How do I clearly articulate the points of contrast and similarity? These basic questions will guide the writer in establishing what the purpose or perspective of the essay is going to be. In addition, to write a good comparison and contrast essay it is important to draw from your observations and research on the similarities and differences in their raw form. This is because one will often find himself stuck with little information on the topic of discussion or lack factual information to back the arguments hence necessitating the research. (Eschholz & Rosa, 2007).
The actual writing
After the brainstorming and research session then comes the actual writing. First and foremost, as pointed out earlier, a good compare and contrast essay has an introduction that gives a reader a pick into what the essay is all about. At this point, a thesis statement is mandatory because it avoids the risk of straying away from the subject of losing coherence in the essay. In addition, as in any other essay writing, an introduction prepares the reader for what to expect, it gives a frame of reference or rather, gives a context within which the issues one intends to compare and contrast are placed. The same principle also applies when writing a compare and contrast essay.
The writer’s skills and abilities to critically analyze the similar and contrasting issues come to play. This is especially the case when top quality and uniqueness is the desired outcome. More importantly, the ability to consolidate the two topics or issues to a common bond, drawing from research or personal experiences adds to effective writing in this kind of essay. (Eschholz & Rosa, 2005).
Conclusion
A compare and contrast essay makes a reader see the similarities and differences between two things which may be useful in assisting the person make a point regarding them. It also helps someone make a point on how the similarities (compare and contrast) and how the differences (compare and contrast) before concluding. The biggest challenge in putting together a compare and contrast essay is maintaining a balance between analytical thinking and simplicity so that the reader can understand.
References
Berven, E. A Brief Guide To Writing A Compare And Contrast Essay. (1997). Web.
Essay writing tips: Compare and contrast essay writing. (2007). Web.
Eschholz, P. & Rosa, A. (2007). The Writer’s Brief Handbook. New York: Longman Publishing.
Reif-Lehrer, L. (2004). Grant Application Writer’s Handbook. Sudbury. MA: Jones and Bartlett Publishers.