Parallel Structure

A balance in writing is called parallel structure A balance in writing is called parallel structure. For example, several equal or related ideas in a sentence should be expressed using a similar grammatical pattern (i.e., an adjective with an adjective, a phrase with a phrase or a clause with a clause.

The following sentences show examples of flaws in parallel structure as well as ways to correct those flaws.

Example:

The committee studied all aspects of the problem – humane, political, and cost.

Changes to:

The committee studied all aspects of the problem – humane, political, and financial.

Example:

In camp a group of us tried to improve our physiques by daily calisthenics, special diets, and following a strict sleeping schedule.

Changes to:

In camp a group of us tried to build up our physiques by daily calisthenics, special diets, and a strict sleeping schedule.

Example:

The firm’s annual report revealed a growth in productive capacity but that sales had dropped.

Changes to:

The firm’s annual report revealed a growth in productive capacity but a drop in sales.

Example:

Water-skiing no longer interests me as much as to go scuba diving.

Changes to:

Water-skiing no longer interests me as much as scuba diving.

OR

To go water-skiing no longer interests me as much as to go scuba diving.

His novel was praised more for its style than for what it had to say.

Changes to:

His novel was praised more for its style than its content.

In areas threatened by hurricanes, it is important to become aware of the warning signs, there are precautions to take, and to decide when to take shelter.

Changes to:

In areas threatened by hurricanes, it is important to become aware of the warning signs, to know what precautions to take, and to decide when to seek shelter.

If you win the race, people will cheer, fans will ask for photographs, and pictures will be taken by reporters.

Changes to:

If you win the race, people will cheer, fans will ask for photographs, and reporters will take pictures.

The salesman expected that he would present his product at the meeting, that there would be time for him to show his slide presentation, and that questions would be asked by prospective buyers.

Changes to:

The salesman expected that he would present his product at the meeting, that there would be time for him to show his slide presentation, and that prospective buyers would ask him questions.