Parallel Structure

Parallel Structure Parallel structure means using the same pattern of words to show that two or more ideas have the same level of importance.

Parallel Structure Use parallel structure when dealing with two or more items in a series.

Parallel Structure This would be words/phrases/clauses connected by conjunctions like “and” or “or” or words/phrases/clauses separated by commas.

Rule #1 Do NOT mix forms!

Rule #1 This means if one item is in the infinitive form, then all must be in the infinitive form.

Rule #1 This means if one item is in the gerund form, then all must be in the gerund form.

Rule #1 Same for prepositional phrases and participles.

Mary likes hiking, to swim, and bicycling. Examples Mary likes hiking, to swim, and bicycling.

Mary likes hiking, swimming, and bicycling. Examples Mary likes hiking, swimming, and bicycling.

Examples The manager had to write his report quickly, accurately, and in a thorough manner.

Examples The manager had to write his report quickly, accurately, and thoroughly.

Parallel structure can be part of the subject or the predicate. Examples Parallel structure can be part of the subject or the predicate.

Examples Eating in class and to put your feet on the desk are prohibited behaviors.

Examples Eating in class and putting your feet on the desk are prohibited behaviors.

Clauses There isn’t a strict rule for clauses other than that each clause must “match” in structure.

Example I told you that you should get ample sleep, that you should eat a good lunch, and to practice your part.

Example I told you that you should get ample sleep, that you should eat a good lunch, and that you should practice your part.

After a colon, make sure all items are in the same form. Lists after a colon After a colon, make sure all items are in the same form.

Lists after a colon Use the dictionary for these reasons: to find word meanings, pronunciations, and looking up irregular verbs.

Lists after a colon Use the dictionary for these reasons: to find word meanings, pronunciations, and irregular verbs.

Parallel Structure When editing writing, look for all instances of conjunctions as well as commas separating words. Check to make sure parallel structure is in place.

Parallel Structure This includes correlating conjunctions such as “not only”/ “but also” and “either”/ “or”.

Parallel Structure When you have these conjunctions, make sure what comes after each part of the conjunction is parallel.

Parallel Structure Ex: I like not only to sleep on my side, but also using four pillows.

Parallel Structure Ex: I like not only to sleep on my side, but also using four pillows.

Parallel Structure Ex: I like not only to sleep on my side, but also to use four pillows.

Parallel Structure Ex: I like not only sleeping on my side, but also using four pillows.