How do you contrast and compare to make your proposal stand out?

2 Identify your criteria

Next, you need to identify the criteria that you will use to contrast and compare your proposal with other options. These are the features, benefits, or values that matter to your audience and that differentiate your proposal from others. For example, if you are proposing a new software tool, you might use criteria such as functionality, usability, cost, security, and support. You can use surveys, interviews, reviews, or research to find out what criteria your audience cares about and how they rank them.

3 Choose your method

There are two main methods of contrasting and comparing: the block method and the point-by-point method. In the block method, you present all the information about one option first, then all the information about another option, and so on. In the point-by-point method, you present one criterion at a time and compare how each option performs on that criterion. The block method is simpler and easier to follow, but it may not highlight the differences and similarities as clearly as the point-by-point method. The point-by-point method is more complex and requires more transitions, but it may be more persuasive and engaging. Choose the method that suits your purpose, audience, and style.

4 Provide evidence

To make your contrast and comparison credible and convincing, you need to provide evidence to support your claims. Evidence can be facts, statistics, examples, testimonials, or other sources of information that show how your proposal meets or exceeds the criteria you have chosen. Make sure your evidence is relevant, accurate, and reliable, and cite your sources if necessary. Avoid using vague or exaggerated statements that may undermine your credibility.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?