Paper 2 Comparison Method

About this resource

Paper 2 comparison questions can feel overwhelming when you're trying to juggle two texts simultaneously. This free guide breaks down a simple 4-step method that ensures you compare effectively, maintain balance, and score well on this challenging question.

What you get

• 4-step comparison framework
• 30+ comparative connectives and phrases
• Model paragraph with annotations
• Common comparison mistakes to avoid
• Time management tips for Paper 2

Ideal for

• Students finding Paper 2 harder than Paper 1
• Anyone struggling to compare texts
• Writers needing connective vocabulary

4-Step Comparison Method

Step 1: Identify Viewpoints (5 minutes)

For each text, identify:

• What is the writer's main viewpoint? (one sentence)
• What is their attitude/tone? (e.g., critical, supportive, neutral)
• What evidence supports this? (one key quote or detail)

Example:

• Text A: Writer argues that social media is harmful to teenagers (critical tone)
• Text B: Writer suggests social media can be positive with guidance (balanced tone)

Step 2: Find Similarities and Differences (3 minutes)

Create a quick table:

| Aspect | Text A | Text B | |--------|--------|--------| | Main viewpoint | | | | Tone | | | | Evidence used | | | | Target audience | | |

Step 3: Plan Your Comparison (2 minutes)

Decide your structure:

• Option A: Similarities first, then differences
• Option B: Point-by-point comparison
• Option C: One text first, then the other, then synthesis

Step 4: Write with Balance (15-20 minutes)

Ensure you:

• Compare both texts equally
• Use comparative connectives
• Show how they relate (similarities AND differences)
• Analyze methods, not just content

Comparative Connectives and Phrases

Showing Similarities

• Similarly
• In the same way
• Likewise
• Both writers...
• Equally
• Correspondingly
• In a similar vein
• Mirroring this
• Parallel to this
• Just as... so too

Showing Differences

• In contrast
• Conversely
• On the other hand
• Whereas
• However
• Unlike
• Differently
• While... instead
• In opposition to
• Contrarily

Showing Relationships

• This connects to...
• This relates to...
• This builds on...
• This challenges...
• This reinforces...
• This contradicts...
• This complements...

Analysis Phrases

• Both writers use [technique] to...
• While Text A [does X], Text B [does Y]
• The writers differ in their approach to...
• A key similarity is...
• A fundamental difference lies in...

Model Paragraph with Annotations

Both writers address the impact of technology on young people, but they adopt contrasting viewpoints. [Topic sentence - establishes comparison]

Text A's writer takes a critical stance, arguing that "social media creates unrealistic expectations" through emotive language and statistics. [Text A analysis]

In contrast, Text B's writer presents a more balanced perspective, acknowledging challenges while suggesting "technology can be harnessed positively" using a measured, advisory tone. [Text B analysis - note the contrast connective]

The key difference lies in their solutions: Text A calls for restrictions, while Text B advocates for education and guidance. [Synthesis - shows how they differ]

Common Comparison Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Mistake 1: Describing texts separately

Wrong: "Text A says X. Text B says Y." Right: "While Text A argues X, Text B suggests Y, showing..."

❌ Mistake 2: Only focusing on content

Wrong: "Text A is about social media. Text B is also about social media." Right: "Both writers address social media, but Text A uses statistics while Text B uses personal anecdotes."

❌ Mistake 3: Imbalanced comparison

Wrong: Writing 3 paragraphs on Text A and 1 on Text B Right: Equal analysis of both texts throughout

❌ Mistake 4: Forgetting methods

Wrong: "Text A is negative. Text B is positive." Right: "Text A creates a negative tone through emotive language like 'devastating', whereas Text B uses balanced phrases such as 'requires consideration'."

Time Management Tips for Paper 2

Question 3 (Comparison) - 15-20 minutes

• Reading & planning: 5-7 minutes
• Writing: 10-12 minutes
• Checking: 2-3 minutes

Structure Your Answer

1. Opening sentence: State what both texts discuss
2. Point 1: Compare one aspect (similarity or difference)
3. Point 2: Compare another aspect
4. Point 3: Compare methods/techniques
5. Conclusion: Synthesize the key relationship

Practice Questions

Try applying this method to:

1. Compare how the two writers present their views on [topic]
2. Compare how the writers use language to convey their attitudes
3. Compare the methods used by both writers to persuade their readers

Related Resources

• Poetry Comparison Checklist (Free)

Struggling with Paper 2? Book a consultation to develop your comparison skills with personalized feedback.