1. Semicolons and Parallel Structure
When and how to use them

2. Semicolons
A semicolon is used to join independent clauses that contain closely related content and are not are not already joined by a coordinating conjunction (and, but, nor, or, for, so, or yet).
Crowdfunding is very popular now; we’re thinking about using it to raise funds for our theater project.
A semicolon can also be used between items in a series (list) if the items already contain commas.
What are the populations of Dallas, Texas; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and Phoenix, Arizona?

3. Parallel Structure
The use of similar grammatical forms or sentence structures to balance and emphasize related ideas in a sentence or passage.
Helps readers/listeners understand that ideas are related.
Makes your writing and speech more compelling and sophisticated.

4. Parallel Structure Continued
Parallel Words:
The cat was hissing, spitting, and clawing.
Loyalty, kindness, and generosity are wonderful traits in a friend.
Parallel Phrases:
They journeyed over land, across water, and through wilderness.
Say hello to your new neighborhood, to your new school, and to your new classmates.
Parallel Clauses:
We awoke early, we made breakfast, and we packed our backpacks.
Lucie said that she would paint the set, Mark would build the puppets, and Jackson would hang the lights.