Parallel StructureParallel Structure

Parallel Structure means using the Parallel Structure means using the same pattern of words to show that same pattern of words to show that two or more ideas have the same two or more ideas have the same level of importance. This can level of importance. This can happen at three levels:happen at three levels:Word

Phrase

Clause

Words and PhrasesWords and Phrases

Incorrect:

Mary likes hiking, swimming, and to ride a bicycle.

Correct:

Mary likes hiking, swimming, and riding a bicycle.

More Examples: Words & Phrases

Incorrect:

The production manager was asked to write his report quickly, accurately, and in a detailed manner.

Correct:

The production manager was asked to write his report quickly, accurately, and thoroughly.

Examples continued:

Incorrect:

Angry ants, munched the marshmallows, crumbling coffeecake, and sipping syrup, headed off across the countertop.

Correct:

Angry ants, munching marshmallows, crumbling coffeecake, and sipping syrup, headed off across the countertop.

Clauses

Parallel structure that begins with clauses must continue on with clauses.

Incorrect:

The coach told the players that they should get a lot of sleep, that they should not eat too much, and to do some warm-up exercises before the game.

Correct:

The coach told the players that they should get a lot of sleep, that they should not eat too much, and that they should do some warm-up exercises before the game

Lists after a colon

Incorrect:

The dictionary can be used for these purposes: to find word meanings, pronunciations, correct spellings, and looking up irregular verbs.

Correct:

The dictionary can be used for these purposes: to find word meanings, pronunciations, correct spellings, and irregular verbs.

Use parallel structure on both sides of coordinating

conjunctions

(and, but, yet, or, nor, for, so)

Examples:

She possessed all the wizard’s charm yet none of the wizard’s insight.

Consult a doctor if your coughing persists or if your coughing worsens over the weekend.

Correct the sentences with improper parallel structure.

Sabrina has wit, charm, and she has an extremely pleasant personality.

Sabrina has wit, charm, and a pleasing personality.

Continued -

In English class, Tashonda learned to read poems critically and she appreciated good prose.

In English class, Tashonda learned to read poems critically and appreciate good prose.

Continued-

Coach Espinoza was a brilliant strategist, a caring mentor, and friend.

Coach Espinoza was a brilliant strategist, a caring mentor, and a wise friend.

Continued -

We found the film repulsive, offensive, and we thought it was embarrassing.

We found the film repulsive, offensive, and embarrassing.

Mr. Tran kept his store clean, neat, and he had it conveniently arranged.

Mr. Tran kept his store clean, neat, and conveniently arranged.

The End