Chapter 20: Parallel Structure• Parallel structure means balance in a sentence.• To create sentences with parallelism, remember this rule:

– Similar points should get a similar structure.• Two steps in checking a sentence for a parallel structure:

– Look for the list in the sentence.– Put the parts of the list into a similar structure.

(You may have to change or add something to gain the parallel structure.)

Chapter 20: Parallel Structure• Example not parallel: The committee for neighborhood safety met to set up a

schedule for patrols, coordinate teams, and to create new rules.

• Parallel List: The committee met

1. to set up2. to coordinate3. to create

• Example revised: The committee for neighborhood safety met to set up a schedule for patrols, to coordinate teams, and to create new rules.

Chapter 20: Parallel Structure

• Example not parallel: The committee for neighborhood safety met to set up a schedule for patrols, coordinate teams, and to create new rules.

• Parallel List: The committee met to

1. set up2. coordinate3. create

• Example revised: The committee met to set up a schedule, coordinate teams, and create new rules.

Chapter 20: Parallel StructureExercises

• Correct sentences to achieve parallel structure.

Q. The truck drove through the red light, struck another car, and was landing in a garden of daffodils.

A. The truck drove through the red light, struck another car, and landed in a garden of daffodils.

Q. To maintain good health, people should try to eat a well-balanced diet, sleep 8 hours per night, and to exercise for about 20 minutes every day.

A. To maintain good health, people should try to eat a well-balanced diet, sleep 8 hours per night, and exercise 20 minutes every day.

Chapter 20: Parallel StructureExercises

• Correct sentences to achieve parallel structure.

Q. After this semester ends, I want to sleep in late, read for fun, and will be relaxing with my iPod.

A. After this semester ends, I want to sleep in late, read for fun, and relax with my iPod.

Q. When I work on my aunt’s farm, I am feeding the horses, to muck the stalls, and cleaning the riding gear.

A. When I work on my aunt’s farm, I am feeding the horses, mucking the stalls, and cleaning the riding gear.