Whats the difference between democrats and republicans

The political stage of the United States is dominated by two political parties named democratic and republican party. Its been a long time since one of the party rule while others sit in opposition and the basic difference is seen in their ideological orientation. At the time when the public is awarded their rights and check on the accountability of the government, both sides agree on the need of various policies like tax cuts, health care, social issues, etc but vary on how to apply them.