Chapter 20: Parallel Structure Parallel structure means balance in a sentence. To create sentences with parallelism, remember this rule: Similar points should get a similar structure. Two steps in checking a sentence for a parallel structure: Look for the list in the sentence. Put the parts of the list into a similar structure. (You may have to change or add something to gain the parallel structure.)

Chapter 20: Parallel Structure Example not parallel: The committee for neighborhood safety met to set up a schedule for patrols, coordinate teams, and to create new rules. Parallel List: The committee met 1. to set up 2. to coordinate 3. to create Example revised: The committee for neighborhood safety met to set up a schedule for patrols, to coordinate teams, and to create new rules.

Chapter 20: Parallel Structure Example not parallel: The committee for neighborhood safety met to set up a schedule for patrols, coordinate teams, and to create new rules. Parallel List: The committee met to 1. set up 2. coordinate 3. create Example revised: The committee met to set up a schedule, coordinate teams, and create new rules.

Chapter 20: Parallel Structure Exercises Correct sentences to achieve parallel structure. Q. The truck drove through the red light, struck another car, and was landing in a garden of daffodils. A. The truck drove through the red light, struck another car, and landed in a garden of daffodils. Q. To maintain good health, people should try to eat a well-balanced diet, sleep 8 hours per night, and to exercise for about 20 minutes every day. A. To maintain good health, people should try to eat a well-balanced diet, sleep 8 hours per night, and exercise 20 minutes every day.

Chapter 20: Parallel Structure Exercises Correct sentences to achieve parallel structure. Q. After this semester ends, I want to sleep in late, read for fun, and will be relaxing with my iPod. A. After this semester ends, I want to sleep in late, read for fun, and relax with my iPod. Q. When I work on my aunt’s farm, I am feeding the horses, to muck the stalls, and cleaning the riding gear. A. When I work on my aunt’s farm, I am feeding the horses, mucking the stalls, and cleaning the riding gear.