Parallelism

What is parallelism ? oParallelism means using similar structures to express similar ideas. oParallel structures make sentences clearer and easier to read. oEditing for parallel structure helps you avoid awkward sentences and keeps you from breaking your promise to the reader.

Example: I like to write, read, and studying. I like to write, to read and to study grammar. I like writing, reading, and studying grammar. Promise broken Promise to reader Promise kept

Now you try. Which sentence is parallel? oThis semester I’m studying art, music, and taking a math course. oThis semester I’m studying art, music, and math.

Tip #1: Be sure that words and phrases joined by coordinating conjunctions (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) are parallel. oYou can pay me now, or it’s okay if you pay me later. oYou can pay me now or pay melater. oYou can pay me now, or you can pay me later. OK Not parallel

Tip #2: Watch words and phrases joined by correlative conjunctions like both…and, either…or, and rather…than. oBoth biology and medicine are good professions. oI would rather stay up late to finish this paper than get up early in the morning.

Tip #3: Watch words and phrases in series or lists. oIn the workshop, I learned some good study tips: oHow to take good notes oReading actively oThat it’s important to get enough sleep oIn the workshop, I learned some good study tips : oTake notes oRead actively oGet enough sleep Not parallel OK

To review parallel structure, see Chapter 13.