How does the author’s use of a compare-and-contrast structure help explain differences between two characters?

• A. It highlights similarities and differences, clarifies motives, and supports the author’s purpose.
• B. It accelerates the plot by increasing tension.
• C. It presents a cause-and-effect chain.
• D. It introduces a problem-solution format

Answer: (A)

Comparing two characters in a single, organized structure lets the reader see what they share and how they diverge, and it clarifies motives by putting their actions, decisions, and values alongside each other. This setup makes differences meaningful and shows how those differences contribute to the characters’ outcomes or the themes the author wants to highlight, which directly supports the author’s purpose.

That’s why the best choice is the one that says it highlights similarities and differences, clarifies motives, and supports the author’s purpose. The other options describe goals not typical of a compare-and-contrast approach: accelerating plot tension, presenting a cause-and-effect chain, or using a problem-solution format.