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o Parallelism means using similar structures to express similar ideas.
o Parallel structures make sentences clearer and easier to read.
o Editing for parallel structure helps you avoid awkward sentences and keeps you from breaking your promise to the reader.

I like to write, read, and studying .
Promise to reader
Promise broken
I like to write, to read and to study grammar.
Promise kept
I like writing, reading, and studying grammar .

o This semester I’m studying art, music, and
taking a math course.
o 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.
o You can pay me now, or it’s okay if you pay me later.
o You can pay me now or pay me later.
OK o You can pay me now, or you can pay me later .

Tip #2: Watch words and phrases joined by correlative conjunctions like both…and, either…or, and rather…than. o Both biology and medicine are good professions.
o 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.
o In the workshop, I learned some good study tips: o How to take good notes o Reading actively
Not parallel o That it’s important to get enough sleep o In the workshop, I learned some good study tips : o Take notes o Read actively o Get enough sleep
OK