: check spelling and grammar. First, use a spell checker to catch errors. Most word processing software offers this tool for spelling and grammar. If you take this approach, make sure it is set correctly for your language and dialect, or compare and contrast the essay outline. The point-by-point method uses a standard five-paragraph essay structure: the introduction contains the focus, the overview of the main points, and the body of the thesis. Example Topics for Compare and Contrast Essays. Selecting compelling topics for a compare and contrast essay can be thought-provoking because it involves identifying various topics that share commonalities and differences, sparking insightful comparisons. Comparison between two types of music genres, for example rock and pop.