Here are the steps for writing a compare and contrast essay. Choose a good topic – When choosing the topic, make sure to choose topics that are different but somewhat similar in nature; The compare and contrast essay begins with a thesis that clearly states the two topics that are to be compared, contrasted, or both, as well as the reason for doing so. The thesis could lean more toward comparison, contrast, or both. Remember, the purpose of comparing and contrasting is to provide useful knowledge to the reader.