Sample Point-by-Point Compare & Contrast Essay

Below is a sample outline and a well-developed point-by-point compare and contrast essay in APA 7^th ed. on the topic: “Online Education vs. Traditional Education.” This sample is intended to help students write better essays.

Point-by-Point Compare and Contrast Essay

Essay Outline

1. Introduction
   • Hook: Engaging statement about the importance of education in today’s world.
   • Brief introduction to online education and traditional education.
   • Clear thesis statement outlining the main points of comparison and contrast.
2. Cost and Accessibility
   1. Point A: Online Education
      • Explanation of the affordability and accessibility of online education.
      • Supporting statistics or examples.
   2. Point B: Traditional Education
      • Discussion of the cost and accessibility of traditional education, including tuition fees and location.
      • Supporting statistics or examples.
3. Flexibility and Convenience
   1. Point A: Online Education
      • Explanation of the flexibility and convenience offered by online education, including the ability to study from anywhere.
      • Supporting examples or personal anecdotes.
   2. Point B: Traditional Education
      • Discussion of the limitations of traditional education in terms of flexibility and convenience, such as fixed schedules and commuting.
      • Supporting examples or personal anecdotes.
4. Interaction and Engagement
   1. Point A: Online Education
      • Explanation of the ways online education fosters interaction and engagement through discussion forums, virtual classrooms, and multimedia.
      • Supporting examples.
   2. Point B: Traditional Education
      • Discussion of the in-person interaction and engagement opportunities in traditional education settings, such as classroom discussions and group projects.
      • Supporting examples.
5. Learning Environment and Resources
   1. Point A: Online Education
      • Explanation of the virtual learning environment and the resources available in online education, including digital libraries and video lectures.
      • Supporting examples.
   2. Point B: Traditional Education
      • Discussion of the physical learning environment and the resources offered by traditional educational institutions, such as libraries, laboratories, and campus facilities.
      • Supporting examples.
6. Instructor-Student Relationship
   1. Point A: Online Education
      • Explanation of the instructor-student relationship in online education, emphasizing virtual communication and feedback.
      • Supporting examples or testimonials.
   2. Point B: Traditional Education
      • Discussion of the instructor-student relationship in traditional education, focusing on face-to-face interactions, office hours, and mentorship.
      • Supporting examples or testimonials.
7. Conclusion
   • Restatement of the thesis statement.
   • Summarization of key points of comparison and contrast in each section.
   • Final thoughts on the overall advantages and disadvantages of online education and traditional education.
   • Reflection on how the choice between these two modes of education depends on individual preferences and circumstances.