Comparing and Contrasting

Comparing means looking at how two or more things are alike. Contrasting means looking at how they are different. This is a skill you use every day, like when you choose between two snacks. In reading, comparing and contrasting helps you understand ideas better.

How to Compare and Contrast

When you compare, look for things that are the same. When you contrast, look for things that are different. A Venn diagram is a helpful tool. It uses two overlapping circles. Things that are alike go in the middle, and things that are different go on the sides.

Signal Words

Authors use special words to show comparisons and contrasts. Words like both, also, and similarly show things are alike. Words like but, however, and on the other hand show things are different. Spotting these words can help you understand what you are reading.

Fun Facts

• Venn diagrams were invented by a man named John Venn in 1880.
• Comparing and contrasting is used in science to classify animals and plants.
• Many test questions ask students to compare and contrast two things they have read.

Did You Know?

You compare and contrast every time you decide what to wear, what to eat, or which game to play.