Analyzing Compare and Contrast Essays - Workspace Design

Workspace DesignCompare and Contrast

Introduction

Clearly introduces the two items being compared (X and Y)

Explains why the comparison matters

Briefly introduces the criteria used for comparison, focusing on criteria that are appropriate for the purpose, audience and topic

Introduction

Here, the author introduces the items being compared: we learn that this article will focus on a comparison of open offices and cubicles.

Introduction

This statement does a good job of explaining why the comparison matters. It explains that understanding the benefits and drawbacks of the two types of office layouts can make a difference to the success of a business.

IntroductionThe three comparison criteria used in this essay are cost, privacy, and productivity, and they are clearly stated at the end of the introductory paragraph. These criteria make sense, given that the purpose of the article is to help employers make decisions. These factors seem like they would be relevant and important to employers.

First Body Paragraph

Includes a topic sentence that clearly introduces one comparison criterion.

Supporting details discuss similarities and/or differences between X and Y in relation to the criteria.

Transition words connect ideas, and help to signal similarities and differences for the reader.

First Body Paragraph

This topic sentence explains that the comparison criterion addressed in this paragraph will be cost.

First Body Paragraph

The supporting details throughout this paragraph explain that open offices tend to cost less than cubicles, since cubicles require employers to purchase and maintain more furniture, and also use more floor space. These details outline the differences between the two office plans, according to the criterion of cost.

First Body Paragraph

The transition phrase "in contrast" is used here to signal a difference between the affordability of open offices and the increased cost of traditional cubicle setups.

Second Body Paragraph

Includes a topic sentence that clearly introduces one comparison criterion.

Supporting details discuss similarities and/or differences between X and Y in relation to the criteria.

Transition words connect ideas, and help to signal similarities and differences for the reader.

Second Body Paragraph

This topic sentence introduces the second comparison point: privacy. It tells the reader what to expect in the rest of the paragraph.

Second Body Paragraph

Each detail in this paragraph provides information about a similarity or difference between the privacy available in an open office or cubicle setting.

Second Body Paragraph

The transition phrase, "on the other hand," indicates a contrast between open offices and cubicle workspaces.

Third Body Paragraph

Includes a topic sentence that clearly introduces one comparison criterion.

Supporting details discuss similarities and/or differences between X and Y in relation to the criteria.

Transition words connect ideas, and help to signal similarities and differences for the reader.

Third Body Paragraph

This topic sentence introduces the third comparison criterion: productivity.

Third Body Paragraph

The details in this paragraph address the contrast between arguments for open office plans and more private workspaces with regard to their impact on productivity.

Third Body Paragraph

The transition word "However" is used to signal the introduction of a counter-argument. In this case, the counter-argument introduces evidence showing a connection between privacy and job performance.

Conclusion

Makes a simple statement that summarizes the most important similarities and/or differences between X and Y.

(Optional) Include a recommendation, opinion, or argument, based on the evidence and criteria provided.

ConclusionThe first sentence in the concluding paragraph summarizes key similarities and differences in relation to the criteria presented. In this case, the sentence emphasizes that open offices do not have advantages in the areas of privacy and productivity, but they do help to reduce costs.

Conclusion

Since the purpose of this article is focused on helping to inform employers in order to guide their decisions, the conclusion includes a recommendation that employers conduct more analysis of the unique needs of their businesses.