Parallel structure means using the same pattern of words to show that two or more ideas have the same level of importance. This can occur at the word, phrase, or clause level. Examples are given to illustrate proper and improper use of parallel structure involving words and phrases, clauses, lists after a colon, and coordinating conjunctions. The document concludes by providing sentences with improper parallel structure to correct.

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

2. Words and PhrasesWords and Phrases
Incorrect:
Mary likes hiking, swimming, and to
ride a bicycle.
Correct:
Mary likes hiking, swimming, and
riding a bicycle.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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

6. 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.

7. Other things to watch for:
Use parallel structure with pairs of words or
ideas.
Examples:
Granny’s method was tried and true
Man proposes. God disposes.

8. 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.

9. 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.

10. 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.

11. 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.

12. 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.

13. The End