Parallel Structure

What is parallel structure?  Parallel structure is repetition of the same pattern of words or phrases within a sentence to show that two or more ideas have the same level of importance.  Parallel structure adds clarity and smoothness to writing.

Ways to use parallel structure 1. With elements joined by coordinating conjunctions 2. With elements in lists or in a series 3. With elements being compared 4. With elements joined by a linking verb or a verb of being 5. With elements joined by a correlative conjunction

1. With elements joined by coordinating conjunctions  Coordinating conjunctions  F or  A nd  N or  B ut  O r  Y et  S o

1. With elements joined by coordinating conjunctions  Ex. I like to read and spending time with my friends. (INCORRECT)  Ex. I like to read and to spend time with my friends. (CORRECT)  Ex. I like reading and spending time with my friends. (CORRECT)

2. With elements in lists or in a series  A series is a group of three or more elements in a row. The last element in the series is connected to the others with a coordinating conjunction.  Commas should be placed between each element in the series and before the coordinating conjunction.

2. With elements in lists or in a series  Ex. My parents emphasize the importance of kindness, courage and being responsible. (INCORRECT)  Ex. My parents emphasize the importance of kindness, courage and responsibility. (CORRECT)  Ex. My parents emphasize the importance of being kind, being courageous and being responsible. (CORRECT)

3. With elements being compared  When we compare things, we often use the following words:  more  less  better  worse  We connect the items being compared with words like as and than.

3. With elements being compared  Ex. I like driving better than to fly. (INCORRECT)  Ex. I like driving better than flying. (CORRECT)  Ex. I like to drive better than to fly. (CORRECT)

4. With elements joined by a linking verb or verb of being  Joining elements with linking verbs or verbs of being suggests a completing of the first item by the second one.

4. With elements joined by a linking verb or verb of being  Ex. Studying abroad in France meant to be on her own. (INCORRECT)  Ex. Studying abroad in France meant being on her own. (CORRECT)  Ex. To study abroad in France meant to be on her own. (CORRECT)

5. With elements joined by a correlative conjunction  Correlative conjunctions are as follows:  either/or  neither/nor  both/and  not only/but also ***Correlative conjunctions work in pairs.

5. With elements joined by a correlative conjunction  Ex. Marcus is neither kind nor is he funny. (INCORRECT)  Ex. Marcus is neither kind nor funny. (CORRECT)  Ex. Neither is Marcus kind nor is he funny. (CORRECT)