Use parallel structure

Learning Objectives Define parallel structure and explain its importance in writing. Identify non-parallel elements within sentences. Revise sentences to achieve parallel structure in lists and series. Apply parallel structure when using coordinating and correlative conjunctions. Construct grammatically parallel sentences for improved clarity and rhetorical effect. Evaluate their own writing for consistent parallel structure. Ever notice how some sentences just *flow* beautifully, while others feel clunky and hard to read? 🤔 That smooth flow often comes from something called parallel structure! In this lesson, you'll discover the power of parallel structure – a fundamental writing technique that brings balance, clarity, and impact to your sentences. Mastering it will...

TermDefinitionExample Parallel StructureThe repetition of a chosen grammatical form within a sentence or passage. By making sure words, phrases, or clauses are grammatically similar, writers create balance and rhythm.She likes to hike, to swim, and to bike. Elements in a SeriesThree or more words, phrases, or clauses listed together in a sentence. For parallel structure, all elements in the series must be in the same grammatical form.The report was thorough, well-researched, and convincing. Parallel WordsUsing words of the same grammatical type (e.g., all nouns, all adjectives, all verbs) in a series or comparison.He is intelligent, kind, and generous. Parallel PhrasesUsing phrases of the same grammatical type (e.g., all prepositional phrases, all infinitive phrases, all gerund phrases) i...

Rule of Consistent Grammatical Form in a Series When listing two or more items, actions, or ideas in a series, ensure that each item uses the same grammatical structure (e.g., all nouns, all verbs, all prepositional phrases, all clauses). This rule applies to lists of three or more items connected by coordinating conjunctions (and, or, but). It creates balance and makes the sentence easier to read and understand. Rule of Parallelism with Correlative Conjunctions When using correlative conjunctions (e.g., *both...and*, *either...or*, *neither...nor*, *not only...but also*), the grammatical structure immediately following the first part of the conjunction must match the grammatical structure immediately following the second part. This rule ensures that the elements being linke...