When describing a compare/contrast structure, what should a reader focus on?

• A. Only similarities
• B. Only differences
• C. Both similarities and differences
• D. Chronology of events

Answer: (C)

When describing a compare/contrast structure, you examine both how things are alike and how they differ. This dual focus helps you see shared traits that connect the items and the unique qualities that set them apart, clarifying the point the author is making by weighing similarities against differences. If you only look at similarities, you miss the important differences that can influence meaning or evaluation. If you only focus on differences, you lose the sense of common ground that helps you understand why the items are being compared in the first place. Chronology of events isn’t part of this structure, since ordering events is a different way of organizing information.