12 Following Parallel Structure
KEY CONCEPTS
Writing in parallel structure provides clarity for readers.
INCORRECT – Some tourists visit on weekends and walking along the trails.
(The verbs visit and walking are NOT in parallel structure.)
CORRECT – Some tourists visit on weekends and walk along the trails.
(The verbs visit and walk are in parallel structure.)
The word parallel doesn’t just apply to parking a car or passing a geometry test. This chapter focuses on parallel structure in writing.
When word patterns are in parallel structure within a sentence, it shows that they have equal importance. Parallel structure also adds clarity for readers.
Here’s a simple example of a sentence that is NOT written in parallel structure:
In her spare time, the judge enjoys reading books, watching movies and motorcycles.
The first two listed items include -ing suffixes (reading books / watching movies), while the third one (motorcycles) does not.
Here’s one way to fix the problem:
In her spare time, the judge enjoys reading books, watching movies and riding motorcycles.
Depending on the context, you might also write the sentence as follows:
In her spare time, the judge enjoys books, movies and motorcycles.
Here’s a chance to practice.
Now let’s try another question.
Editing is an important skill in correcting errors that involve parallel structure. Here’s a chance to practice.
So far in this chapter, the examples you’ve seen involve three or more items that are not in parallel structure. However, even if you are only writing about two items or actions, they should follow the same pattern. Here’s an example of a sentence that is NOT in parallel structure.
They discussed the differences between the simple quiz in the first lesson and how much harder the essay assignment in the second lesson was.
And here’s a solution.
They discussed the differences between the simple quiz in the first lesson and the difficult essay assignment in the second lesson.
We’ll close this lesson with a chance for you to practice that concept:
MORE PRACTICE FOR PROFICIENCY
Below are additional usage questions based on this chapter. These questions may help you study for course assignments or a proficiency exam.
Advance through the following set of practice questions by using the forward button in the bottom-right corner of the quiz:
WRITING EXERCISE
1. Rewrite the following sentence so that it is in parallel structure.
The investigation involved two players, four staff members, and it involved the head coach.
2. Rewrite the following sentence so that it is in parallel structure.
One prisoner avoided overhead cameras, climbing a security fence, and he evaded police.
3. Rewrite the following sentence so that it is in parallel structure.
A professional editor will display integrity, honesty and be on time.
4. In two tightly constructed sentences, explain your key takeaway from this chapter. Do not use any first-person pronouns (such as I, me, my or mine) in your writing.
