No, I’m not talking about mathematical Parallelism!

Parallelism Parallel structure means using the same pattern of words to show that two or more ideas have the same level of importance. This can happen at the word, phrase, or clause level. The usual way to join parallel structures is with the use of coordinating conjunctions such as "and" or "or."

With infinitive phrases Parallelism Words and Phrases With the -ing form (gerund) of words: Parallel: Mary likes hiking, swimming, and bicycling. With infinitive phrases Parallel: Mary likes to hike, to swim, and to ride a bicycle. OR… Mary likes to hike, swim, and ride a bicycle. Note: You can use "to" before all the verbs in a sentence or only before the first one. DO NOT MIX FORMS.

Parallelism Example 1 Not Parallel: Mary likes hiking, swimming, and to ride a bicycle. Parallel: Mary likes hiking, swimming, and riding a bicycle. Example 2 Not Parallel: The production manager was asked to write his report quickly, accurately, and in a detailed manner. Parallel: The production manager was asked to write his report quickly, accurately, and thoroughly. Example 3 Not Parallel: The teacher said that he was a poor student because he waited until the last minute to study for the exam, completed his lab problems in a careless manner, and his motivation was low. Parallel: The teacher said that he was a poor student because he waited until the last minute to study for the exam, completed his lab problems in a careless manner, and lacked motivation.

Parallelism Clauses A parallel structure that begins with clauses must keep on with clauses. Changing to another pattern or changing the voice of the verb (from active to passive or vice versa) will break the parallelism.

Parallelism Example 1 Not Parallel: ~The coach told the players that they should get a lot of sleep, that they should not eat too much, and to do some warm-up exercises before the game. Parallel: ~The coach told the players that they should get a lot of sleep, that they should not eat too much, and that they should do some warm-up exercises before the game. — or — Parallel: The coach told the players that they should get a lot of sleep, not eat too much, and do some warm-up exercises before the game

Parallelism Example 2 Not Parallel: ~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. (passive) Parallel: ~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.

Parallelism Lists After a Colon Be sure to keep all the elements in a list in the same form. Example 1 Not Parallel: ~The dictionary can be used for these purposes: to find word meanings, pronunciations, correct spellings, and looking up irregular verbs. Parallel: ~The dictionary can be used for these purposes: to find word meanings, pronunciations, correct spellings, and irregular verbs.

Revising Sentences to Create Parallel Structure DIRECTIONS: Some of the following sentences are out of balance. Use parallel structure to bring balance to the sentences. Delete or add words if necessary. If a sentence is already correct, write C. Example:

Revising Sentences to Create Parallel Structure The process of evaluating a television documentary includes watching, listening, and with notes. An opera singer is trained to perform onstage and in the recording studio. The travelers decided that hiking into the Grand Canyon would be good exercise and that driving by it would be boring. Flying an airplane and driving a car require more skill than to ride a bike. The heroine of the play persuades her brothers to mortgage the farm, to invest in more land, and to repair the house.

Revising Sentences to Create Parallel Structure Many talented performers enjoy acting, singing, and dance. Some goals of the group are building membership, encouraging change, and how to raise funds. Car owners understand the importance of keeping tires inflated, filling the gas tank, and how to check the oil. To camp out, rent a cabin, and visiting relatives are popular vacation activities. We praised the quarterback’s skill, speed, and how agile he was.

Revising Sentences to Create Parallel Structure 11. In her free time, the author enjoys reading, gardening, and travels. 12. Keisha does not have the time to volunteer at the literacy center, to play volleyball, and track. 13. My friend from Belgium told me that many Europeans watch American television shows and to listen to American music. 14. The map shows that the Mississippi River begins at Lake Itasca and flowing into the Gulf of Mexico.

Revising Sentences to Create Parallel Structure 15. After several lessons, the music student was able to hold a violin properly, to tune it, and play a simple piece of music. 16. The senator decided to give up her seat in the Senate and running for vice president of the United States. 17. During the summer many people like to camp out, to go swimming, and cookouts. 18. Many students find that getting into college is relatively easy but that adjusting to college life is more difficult than they thought.