2. Parallel structure
Parallel structure means using the same pattern of words to show that
two or more ideas have the same level of importance.
This can happen at three levels:
Word
Phrase
Clause
3. Words and phrases
Incorrect:
Mary likes hiking, swimming, and to ride a bicycle.
Correct:
Mary likes hiking, swimming, and riding a bicycle.
4. 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 thorouhly.
5. Examples continued
Incorrect:
Angry ants, munched the marshmallows, crumbling coffeecake, and
sipping syrup, headed off across the countertop.
Correct:
Angry ants, munching the marshmallows, crumbling coffeecake, and
sipping syrup, headed off across the countertop.
6. Clauses
Parallel structure that begins with clauses ust continue on with clauses.
Incorrect:
The coach told he 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 he 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.
7. List 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.
8. Other things to watch for:
Use parallel structure on both sides of coordinating conjuctions
(and, but, yet, or, nor, for, so)
Examples:
She possesses all the wizard’s charm yet none of the wizard’s insight.
Consultant a doctor if your coughing persists or if your coughing
worsens over the weekend.
