Parallel Structure Get out your notebook and get ready to take some notes!

Parallel Structure  Using the same pattern of words to show that 2 or more things are of equal importance.  Helps the reader understand what is written.

Example in phrases/clauses  Ashley likes to ski, to swim, and to jump.  Ashley likes to ski, swim, and jump.  Ashley likes skiing, swimming, and jumping.  Ashley likes to ski, swimming, and to jump.

Example when giving a list  In your bedroom, you can find the following: a bed, a closet, and a desk.  In your bedroom, you can find the following: a bed, a closet, and sitting at a desk.

Which is correct parallel structure?  Joey likes singing, walking, and dancing.  Joey likes singing, walking, and to dance.

Which is correct parallel structure?  Mary wanted to make sure that she made her presentation creatively, effectively, and persuasively.  Mary wanted to make sure that she made her presentation creatively, effectively, and persuaded others.

Which is correct parallel structure?  Dogs are great pets for these reasons: because of their loyalty, they are loving, and they are obedient.  Dogs are great pets for these reasons: they are loyal, they are loving, and they are obedient.

Which is correct parallel structure?  Tim was considered to be a good employee because he was never late, he was very motivated, and he was not lacking in initiative.  Tim was considered to be a good employee because he was never late, he was very motivated, and he did not lack initiative.

What is the correct parallel structure?  People who get ahead do lots of different things such as: studying, working hard, and going to college.  People who get ahead do lots of different things such as: studying, because they work hard, and going to college.