Comparative essay The purpose of a comparative essay is just what it says to compare two or more things with each other; comparing means finding similarities and differences. Comparative essays, like other essays, require research. You must know something about your subject in order to write a comparative essay. The first step in writing a comparative essay, after the research, is to make a list of what you know about subject one. Then make a list of what you know about subject two. Now look for the similarities and differences you will illustrate in your comparative essay, these are your main points. Examine what can be learned when the two subjects are brought together Now you can write the introduction to your comparative essay. The introduction of your comparative essay has to discuss both of the subjects you will be comparing. Make the relationship between subjects one and two clear in your comparative essay. The introduction will contain your thesis statement, which should clearly state the difference between the two subjects. There are two ways to organize a comparative essay:  1. The divided pattern  2. The alternating pattern When you use the divided pattern for your comparative essay, first you describe all the details of subject one; then, you describe all the details of subject two. Don’t forget to link your discussion of subject one and subject two to your comparative essay thesis statement. In the alternating pattern, you discuss one point for subject one and then discuss that same point for subject two. You do this for each of your main points. Again you must link these to your thesis. One thing you want to avoid while writing your comparative essay is repeating yourself. Change people’s opinions with a persuasive essay A persuasive essay is your opportunity to voice your opinion on a topic. A persuasive essay takes a strong, clear position on a topic, or it tries to persuade the reader to take a particular action in relation to that topic. When writing a persuasive essay, you need to identify your audience. As with any essay, a persuasive essay requires some research and thought before writing begins. Before writing your persuasive essay, find logical reasons and supporting evidence for the point you are trying to make or the action you would like your audience to take. Supporting evidence for your persuasive essay should come from noted authorities. You have to provide evidence to support what you are saying in your persuasive essay. Remember that no issue is ever black and white, there are always more ways than one to look at any topic. For your persuasive essay to be convincing, you have to acknowledge the strongest opposing view and counter it with compelling reasons why your position is more valid. Throughout your persuasive essay, you must maintain the same position – do not waffle. A persuasive essay is being written to change the minds of people who do not agree with you, not to address people who share your opinion, keep this in mind. Start with addressing the common areas between you and your opponents for a good persuasive essay. Then follow with your strongest point. When writing a persuasive essay, avoid the use of the words “all” or “every”, they detract from your argument. Have a strong beginning, credible support, and a convincing conclusion to your persuasive essay. Again maintain the same position throughout your persuasive essay. Don’t for