5. WORDS AND PHRASES
EXPLANATION: Phrases in a series need to be in the same form in order to make sense easily in a sentence.
Example:
Not parallel:
We went over the river , the bridge , and around the bend to get there.
Parallel:
We went over the river , Over the bridge , and around the bend to get there.
• Not parallel:
• His big decision was whether to ride his bike, to build a sandcastle , or swimming in the lake.
• Parallel:
• His big decision was whether to ride his bike, to build a sandcastle , or swim in the lake.
6. DO NOT MIX A FORMS:
Explanation: For making a sentence parallel and balance the form of verb should not be mix.
Example:
Not parallel:
Ali prefers jeans to wearing a suit.
Parallel:
Ali prefers wearing jeans to wearing suits.
7. CLAUSES:
Explanation: Structure of sentences begins with clauses must keep on with
clauses.
Example:
Not parallel:
Your company and what its potential is are of great value to me.
Parallel:
Your company and its potential are of great value to me.
8. LISTS AFTER A COLON:
Explanation: Use a colon to separate an explanation, rule or example from a preceding independent
clause.
Example:
Not parallel:
The bookstore specializes in: art, architecture, and graphic design.
Parallel:
The bookstore specializes in art, architecture, and graphic design.
9. SHORT QUIZ:
Q1: Which sentence uses parallel structure?
a) It is harder to tie a slip knot than to tie a square knot.
b) Typing a slip knot is harder than to tie a square knot.
Q2: The cake was baked, fosted and I put sprinkles on it.
a) The cake was bake, fosted and I put sprinkled on it.
b) The cake was baked, fosted and sprinkled.
Q3: She likes cooking, jogging, and to read.
a) She likes cook, jogging, and to read.
b) She likes cooking , jogging and reading.
Q4: The production manager was asked to write his report quickly, accurately, and in a thorough manner.
a) The production manager was asked to write his report quickly, accurately, and thoroughly.
b) The production manager was asked to write his report quick, accurately, and thorough.
