The same pattern of words to show that two or more clauses or phrases are of equal importance. Usually joined by a coordinating conjunction.

Correct: The play was entertaining because of

the music, but confusing because of the plotlines.

Incorrect: The play was entertaining because of the music, but the plot was confusing.

Adjectives should be next to the nouns they modify and verbs should be next to their objects.

Correct: Throw a can of soda down the stairs

to me.

Incorrect: Throw me down the stairs a can of

soda.

Make sure you are using the correct word for what you are trying to say.

Correct: After Zeke was bitten by the

rattlesnake the doctor gave him an antidote to counteract the poison.

Incorrect: After Zeke was bitten by the

rattlesnake the doctor gave him an anecdote to counteract the poison.

Clause that works to describe the subject of the sentence. When the sentence begins with an adjective clause whatever is being described must be the subject of the second clause.

Correct: Working to improve the game, the

commissioner changed the rules. Incorrect:

Working to improve the game, the rules were changed.