2.1.6. Parallelism

Ensure that elements in a list or series have the same grammatical structure (e.g., She enjoys reading, writing, and painting. not She enjoys reading, writing, and to paint.).

Parallelism is the use of similar structures in a series or list within a sentence. This means that when you list out actions, subjects, or phrases, they should maintain the same grammatical format. For example, if you start with a gerund (like 'reading'), all other items in the list should also be gerunds (like 'writing' and 'painting'). This repetition of structure not only makes the sentence more readable but also emphasizes the equality of the ideas presented.

Think of parallelism like a well-coordinated dance performance; every dancer must move in sync with the others, using the same rhythm and steps. If one dancer suddenly changes their moves or tempo, it disrupts the harmony and confuses the audience. Similarly, ensuring that each item in a list follows the same structure creates a smooth and harmonious sentence.

Correct: "The coach said the players should try to win the game, stay focused, and keep their spirits high." Incorrect: "The coach said the players should try to win the game, staying focused, and to keep their spirits high."

In the first example (correct), all elements 'try to win the game,' 'stay focused,' and 'keep their spirits high' follow the same grammatical structure, making it clear and easy to read. In the second example (incorrect), the shift from 'try to win' (infinitive form) to 'staying focused' (gerund form) and 'to keep' (infinitive form) creates confusion. The lack of parallel structure makes the sentence awkward and difficult to follow.

Imagine a recipe that lists ingredients in an inconsistent way. If it says, 'Add 2 cups of flour, 1 cup of sugar, and a half of butter,' it's unclear because the measurements and descriptions are not presented consistently. In cooking, just like in writing, consistency is key for clarity and effectiveness!

Using parallel structure helps improve writing clarity, rhythm, and readability.

Parallelism is crucial in writing as it enhances the clarity and flow of information. When ideas are presented in a parallel structure, readers can easily follow the author's thought process. Additionally, parallel structures often create a rhythm in the text, making it more engaging and persuasive. Just like how a song often resonates with listeners due to its consistent beat, written work benefits from parallelism to draw readers in and maintain their interest.

Consider a speech where the speaker lists the benefits of teamwork: 'Teamwork fosters creativity, promotes communication, and strengthens relationships.' The use of parallelism makes the speech memorable. If the speaker had broken this structure, like saying, 'Teamwork fosters creativity, it promotes communication, and strengthens relationships,' it would lose that rhythmic quality. Just as a catchy song sticks in your mind, effective parallelism helps the message linger with the audience.

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