How to compare two texts: structure, connectives and examples
Plan and write a comparison using similarities, differences and comparative connectives, with a clear method.
GCSEA-LevelHigh SchoolAPCurriculum fit: GCSE English Language Paper 2 and English Literature (comparison of texts and poems). US: Common Core ELA Reading standards (integrating knowledge across texts, grades 9-12).
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What is it?
Comparing means looking at how two texts are alike and how they differ, in ideas, perspective, language and structure. A good comparison does not describe each text separately: it links them throughout.
Choose two or three clear points of comparison, find evidence from each text, and use comparative language to connect them.
Key formulas and ideas
- Comparative connectives: similarly, likewise, in the same way, whereas, in contrast, however, on the other hand.
- Point-by-point method: discuss one point at a time, covering both texts.
- Block method: discuss one text fully, then the other, linking back (harder to keep linked).
- Compare ideas, tone, viewpoint, language and structure.
Worked examples
Example 1: Comparative sentence
Question: Write a sentence comparing how two writers describe a storm: Text A uses 'roaring' and Text B uses 'a gentle murmur'.
- Identify the difference: violent versus gentle.
- Use a contrast connective such as 'whereas'.
Answer: Text A presents the storm as violent through 'roaring', whereas Text B presents it gently as 'a gentle murmur'.
Example 2: Plan
Question: Plan a comparison of two writers' attitudes to city life.
- Point 1: attitude (one admires the city, one fears it).
- Point 2: language (energetic verbs versus bleak adjectives).
- Point 3: structure (a busy list versus a single long sentence).
Answer: Three linked points comparing both texts
Example 3: Similarity
Question: Both texts use short sentences at moments of tension. How could you say this?
- Use a similarity connective.
- Name the effect.
Answer: Similarly, both writers use short sentences to heighten tension.
Common mistakes
- Writing about each text separately with no links.
- Comparing only the topic, not the writers' methods.
- Using only one comparative word repeatedly.
- Making claims about both texts with evidence from only one.
Practice questions
Frequently asked questions
Which method is better, point-by-point or block?
Point-by-point usually keeps comparison clearer. Block can work with careful linking.
Do I need equal evidence from both texts?
Aim for a balanced comparison, with evidence from each.
Related guides
Analysing structure in texts: openings, shifts and endings
Look at how a writer organises a text, from openings and shifts in focus to pacing, sentence length and endings, with examples.
GCSEA-LevelHigh SchoolAPPoetry analysis: form, structure and language explained
Analyse a poem by looking at its form, rhyme, rhythm, structure and language, with a step-by-step approach.
GCSEA-LevelHigh SchoolAPMaking inferences and retrieving information from a text
Find information stated directly in a text and read between the lines to infer what is not said, with examples.
KS3GCSEMiddle SchoolHigh SchoolSources and review
- DfE: GCSE English literature subject content (archived copy)
- Common Core State Standards: English Language Arts and Literacy
Reviewed by StudyMorrow editorial review on 5 Nov 2026.