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Parallelism. What is parallelism ?. Parallelism means using similar structures to express similar ideas. Parallel structures make sentences clearer and easier to read. Editing for parallel structure helps you avoid awkward sentences and keeps you from breaking your promise to the reader.
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What is parallelism? • Parallelism means using similar structures to express similar ideas. • Parallel structures make sentences clearer and easier to read. • Editing for parallel structure helps you avoid awkward sentences and keeps you from breaking your promise to the reader.
Promise to reader Promise kept Example: I like to write, read, and studying. I like to write, to read and to study grammar. I like writing, reading, and studying grammar. Promise broken
Now you try. Which sentence is parallel? • This semester I’m studying art, music, and taking a math course. • This semester I’m studying art, music, and math.
Tip #1: Be sure that words and phrases joined by coordinating conjunctions (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) are parallel. • You can pay me now, or it’s okay if you pay me later. • You can pay me now or pay me later. • You can pay me now, or you can pay me later. Not parallel OK
Tip #2: Watch words and phrases joined by correlative conjunctions like both…and, either…or, and rather…than. • Both biology and medicine are good professions. • I would rather stay up late to finish this paper than get up early in the morning.
Tip #3: Watch words and phrases in series or lists. • In the workshop, I learned some good study tips: • How to take good notes • Reading actively • That it’s important to get enough sleep • In the workshop, I learned some good study tips: • Take notes • Read actively • Get enough sleep Not parallel OK