Parallel Structure What is parallel structure Parallel structure

Parallel Structure

What is parallel structure? Parallel structure is repetition of the same pattern of words or phrases within a sentence to show that two or more ideas have the same level of importance. Parallel structure adds clarity and smoothness to writing.

Ways to use parallel structure 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. With elements joined by coordinating conjunctions With elements in lists or in a series With elements being compared With elements joined by a linking verb or a verb of being With elements joined by a correlative conjunction

1. With elements joined by coordinating conjunctions Coordinating For And Nor But Or Yet So conjunctions

1. With elements joined by coordinating conjunctions Ex. I like to read and spending time with my friends. (INCORRECT) Ex. I like to read and to spend time with my friends. (CORRECT) Ex. I like reading and spending time with my friends. (CORRECT)

2. With elements in lists or in a series A series is a group of three or more elements in a row. The last element in the series is connected to the others with a coordinating conjunction. Commas should be placed between each element in the series and before the coordinating conjunction.

2. With elements in lists or in a series Ex. My parents emphasize the importance of kindness, courage and being responsible. (INCORRECT) Ex. My parents emphasize the importance of kindness, courage and responsibility. (CORRECT) Ex. My parents emphasize the importance of being kind, being courageous and being responsible. (CORRECT)

3. With elements being compared When we compare things, we often use the following words: more less better worse We connect the items being compared with words like as and than.

3. With elements being compared Ex. I like driving better than to fly. (INCORRECT) Ex. I like driving better than flying. (CORRECT) Ex. I like to drive better than to fly. (CORRECT)

4. With elements joined by a linking verb or verb of being Joining elements with linking verbs or verbs of being suggests a completing of the first item by the second one.

4. With elements joined by a linking verb or verb of being Ex. Studying abroad in France meant to be on her own. (INCORRECT) Ex. Studying abroad in France meant being on her own. (CORRECT) Ex. To study abroad in France meant to be on her own. (CORRECT)

5. With elements joined by a correlative conjunction Correlative conjunctions are as follows: either/or neither/nor both/and not only/but also ***Correlative conjunctions work in pairs.

5. With elements joined by a correlative conjunction Ex. Marcus is neither kind nor is he funny. (INCORRECT) Ex. Marcus is neither kind nor funny. (CORRECT) Ex. Neither is Marcus kind nor is he funny. (CORRECT)