Semicolons and Parallel Structure When and how to use them

Semicolons A semicolon is used to join independent clauses that contain closely related content and are not are not already joined by a coordinating conjunction (and, but, nor, or, for, so, or yet). Crowdfunding is very popular now; we’re thinking about using it to raise funds for our theater project. A semicolon can also be used between items in a series (list) if the items already contain commas. What are the populations of Dallas, Texas; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and Phoenix, Arizona?

Parallel Structure The use of similar grammatical forms or sentence structures to balance and emphasize related ideas in a sentence or passage. Helps readers/listeners understand that ideas are related. Makes your writing and speech more compelling and sophisticated.

Parallel Structure Continued Parallel Words: The cat was hissing, spitting, and clawing. Loyalty, kindness, and generosity are wonderful traits in a friend. Parallel Phrases: They journeyed over land, across water, and through wilderness. Say hello to your new neighborhood, to your new school, and to your new classmates. Parallel Clauses: We awoke early, we made breakfast, and we packed our backpacks. Lucie said that she would paint the set, Mark would build the puppets, and Jackson would hang the lights.