Overview
For Cambridge Cambridge command words, answering a "compare" question in a Cambridge exam requires you to do more than just describe two things. The command word compare asks you to identify and explain both the similarities and the differences between two or more items. The key to a high-scoring answer is to structure your response in a point-by-point manner, directly addressing these similarities and differences together, rather than discussing each item in isolation.
Deconstruct the Question First
For Cambridge Cambridge command words, before you write a single word, carefully analyse the question. Identify the command word—in this case, compare—and be certain you understand its specific demands among all the [Cambridge command words](/blog/cambridge-command-words-explained). Next, pinpoint exactly what the question is asking you to compare. Finally, and crucially, note the number of marks available, as this is your best guide to how many distinct, well-developed points the examiner expects to see.
Plan Your Points Systematically
For Cambridge Cambridge command words, a few moments of planning can transform a disorganised answer into a top-band response. Quickly brainstorm the key similarities and differences between the items. The most effective way to organise these is to group them by theme or feature. For example, if comparing two poems, your themes might be 'tone', 'imagery', and 'structure'. For each theme, decide if it represents a similarity or a difference, and note down the specific evidence you will use.
Structure Your Answer Point-by-Point
For Cambridge Cambridge command words, examiner reports frequently highlight that students lose marks by describing Item A fully, then describing Item B fully. This is not a comparison. A strong answer integrates the comparison throughout. Each paragraph should focus on a single point of comparison (a theme you identified in your plan) and discuss both items in relation to that point. This integrated, point-by-point structure demonstrates a true comparative analysis.
Use Explicit Comparative Language
For Cambridge Cambridge command words, make your comparative points obvious to the examiner by using clear signposting language. When discussing similarities, use phrases like 'Similarly,', 'Likewise,', 'Both X and Y share the feature of...', or 'In the same way,'. For differences, use words such as 'In contrast,', 'However,', 'Whereas X exhibits..., Y instead...', or 'On the other hand,'. This language acts as a clear signal that you are directly addressing the demands of the "compare" command.
Develop Each Point for the Marks
For Cambridge Cambridge command words, simply stating a similarity or difference is often not enough, especially for questions with a higher mark tariff. Each point of comparison you make needs to be developed with supporting detail, evidence, or explanation, depending on the subject. For a 6-mark question, for instance, you should aim for three distinct points of comparison, with each one clearly stated and then substantiated with specific information from the source material or your own knowledge.
Frequently asked questions
This section covers Frequently asked questions — ranked by what Cambridge examiners return to most often in past papers.
Do I need to find an equal number of similarities and differences?
Not at all. The balance should be determined by the items themselves, not a rigid formula. Focus on making the most significant and relevant comparative points. If the most important connections are three differences and one similarity, that is what you should write. Examiners reward valid, well-explained points, not an artificial 50/50 split.
What if the question says "Compare" but I can only find differences?
It is highly unlikely that two items in an exam question will have zero similarities. Think more broadly about their context, purpose, or classification. For example, two opposing political ideologies are still both ideologies that propose a structure for society. This shared category is a valid point of similarity to begin your analysis.
How is "compare" different from "compare and contrast"?
In the context of Cambridge International exams, there is no functional difference. The command word compare is an inclusive term that already requires you to discuss both similarities and differences. The phrase "compare and contrast" is simply a more explicit version of the same instruction. You should approach both commands in exactly the same way.
Can I use a table in my answer?
A table is an excellent tool for planning your answer, as it helps you organise features and evidence side-by-side. However, unless the question explicitly asks for a table, you must write your final answer in continuous prose, using full sentences and paragraphs. Use the table to structure your thoughts, then convert it into a well-written, integrated response.