Parallel Structure
When items in a sentence are similar in function and equal in importance, use parallel
grammatical structure. For example:
Tom loves camping in the mountains, fishing for trout, and hunting for deer.
(Parallel phrases)
Brenda promised herself that she would complete her work early and (that she would)
reward herself with a long vacation. (Parallel clauses—Note: The words in parentheses
are understood, so they may be omitted.)
Pizza, lasagna, and cheese tortellini are Tony’s favorite dishes. (Parallel words)
Using parallel structure makes sentences smooth and coherent. It gives them balance, rhythm,
and greater force. Notice how awkward this nonparallel sentence sounds:
This article is interesting, having a lot of information, yet also presented with humor.
With parallel structure, it sounds much smoother.
This article is interesting, informative, and humorous.
Since it is easy to forget to use parallel structure, you should proofread your paper for
nonparallel structures before turning it in. Here is another nonparallel sentence and a possible
correction:
Greg couldn’t decide whether to work in his father’s business or if he should choose
another trade.
Correction: Greg couldn’t decide whether he should work in his father’s business or
(whether he should) choose another trade.
Now, try correcting the following sentences, which have nonparallel structure:
1) Ernesto worries too much about his grades, his girlfriend, and what he will do after he
graduates.
_________________________________________________________________________
2) Kurt’s jobs as a busboy were to set the tables, filling the water glasses, and he had to clear
the tables after the diners had left.
_________________________________________________________________________
3) Cynthia planned to major in business and that she could study computer information
systems at the same time.
_________________________________________________________________________
4) I think everyone would rather get this whole issue settled now than dragging it on for
months.
_________________________________________________________________________
5) The Robertsons enjoy golfing, tennis, and to go waterskiing at Pyramid Lake .
_________________________________________________________________________
6) The college president hopes that construction can begin soon on the new gym and then to
renovate the old library building.
_________________________________________________________________________
7) We shall study this issue carefully, analyze it rationally, and come to a decision on an
objective basis.
_________________________________________________________________________
8) This handout is clear, well-written, and it can give me a lot of help on this topic.
_________________________________________________________________________
Show your corrections to a tutor or to your instructor, and remember to keep alert to this
common error in writing.