In food studies, compare means to identify the similarities and differences between two or more things. This could involve comparing ingredients, cooking methods, products, nutritional features or practical outcomes. For a strong assessment answer, do more than describe each item separately. Make clear links between them, using accurate food terminology and relevant examples. Learning how to respond to the command word “compare” will help with assessment questions in WJEC Level 1/2 Hospitality and Catering and AQA GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition.
What does “compare” mean?
To compare is to examine two or more things in relation to each other. You should identify:
- Similarities: features that are the same or alike.
- Differences: features that are not the same.
The things being compared must be clear. For example, if you compare grilling and baking, you could discuss how both are cooking methods that use dry heat, then explain how the heat reaches the food differently.
How to write a comparison
A useful comparison can follow this simple process:
- Name the two foods, methods or features being compared.
- Identify a similarity.
- Identify a difference.
- Explain the difference using a relevant example, where appropriate.
Use linking words such as both, similarly, whereas, however and unlike. These words help the reader see that you are making a direct comparison rather than writing two separate descriptions.
Example: comparing two cooking methods
| Feature | Grilling | Baking |
|---|---|---|
| Similarity | Both can cook food using dry heat. | |
| Difference | Food is cooked by heat from above. | Food is cooked in an oven, where heat surrounds the food. |
A comparison sentence could be: Both grilling and baking use dry heat, but grilling heats the food from above, whereas baking cooks it in an oven.
This is more effective than simply listing facts because it directly connects the two methods.
Compare, describe and explain
Command words have different meanings. Describe means give an account of what something is like. Explain means give reasons or show how or why something happens. Compare requires similarities and differences between items. Read the whole question carefully, because it may ask you to compare and then explain a consequence or reason.
Exam-ready retrieval checklist
- Have I named all the items in the question?
- Have I included at least one similarity and one difference?
- Have I made direct links between the items?
- Have I used accurate food terminology?
- Have I answered the exact question rather than writing unrelated facts?
For board-specific wording and assessment context, check the relevant WJEC Hospitality and Catering specification or AQA Food Preparation and Nutrition specification. Specifications and official guidance can change, so use the current document provided by your teacher or exam board.
Frequently asked questions
Does compare mean writing about similarities only?
No. A comparison should identify similarities and differences. Check the wording of the question to see whether it also asks you to explain or justify your answer.
Can I use a table to compare foods or methods?
Yes. A table can help organise your ideas during revision. In an assessment, make sure your final response is clear and includes enough detail for the question.