Which of the following is the best approach to use when writing a compare-
and-contrast essay?

Explanation: You first write the first paragraph about it then that last two is compare and contrast

I don’t know exactly what you are asking for. There is no following to pick from but for me the essay layout would be:

Paragraph 1 : Introduction to what you are comparing and contrasting and give your big ideas.

Paragraph 2: Compare and Contrast one big idea, use maybe 3 similarities and 3 differences. If it is for a story use text evidence if needed.

Paragraph 3 and 4: Repeat paragraph 2 but with different similarities and differences. If needed more paragraphs than this just write more.

Last paragraph: Conclusion to the essay

I don’t know if this was what you were asking for because there was no following. If you weren’t looking for this then I hope maybe one day it will help.

He worked hardhe worked hardhe worked hardhe worked hardhe worked hardhe worked hardhe worked hardhe worked hardhe worked hardhe worked hardhe worked hardhe worked hardhe worked hardhe worked hardhe worked hardhe worked hardhe worked hardhe worked hardhe worked hardhe worked hardhe worked hardhe worked hardhe worked hardhe worked hardhe worked hardhe worked hardhe worked hard