Language Fundamentals
Parallel Structure (Grammar)

Make lists and paired ideas share the same grammatical pattern.

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What it is

The grammatical principle of using consistent structural patterns when listing items, creating balance and clarity by ensuring similar grammatical forms (verbs, nouns, phrases) are used in coordinate positions.

Before & after

Before

Mixed structure: "Our goals are increasing sales, to improve service, and cost reduction"

After

Parallel structure: "Our goals are to increase sales, to improve service, and to reduce costs"

When you’ll use it

Job descriptions: "Responsibilities include analyzing data, preparing reports, and presenting findings" (all gerunds)

Meeting agendas: "Topics: budget review, timeline discussion, and resource allocation" (all noun phrases)

Training objectives: "Participants will learn to communicate clearly, think critically, and solve problems effectively" (all infinitive phrases)

Project goals: "Increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve quality" (all verb phrases)

Pro tip

Check endings, keep them consistent across items.

Questions & answers

3 questions

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