Parallel Construction

Parallel construction is a tool of clarity. It's a way to smooth out your writing, and it's something we notice more when it's done poorly than when it's done well. There are several ways to use it: in lists, in text headings, and in complex sentences. In bulleted lists, parallel construction starts each item on the list with the same type of word: verb, adjective, adverb, or noun. 

Here's an example of non-parallel construction. 

Successful people know that to succeed, you must: 

• Choose your course carefully. 
• Vote your conscience. 
• Books are important! 

The third one is jarring because it's not parallel. The third one needs to start with a verb such as Read. 

Here's another one. 

What I most enjoy about summer is:

• Looking at flowers. 
• Running on the beach.
• Walks in the moonlight. 

While not quite as obvious and jarring, it's still not parallel because the verbs are not the same form. The first two are gerunds (verbs ending in ing); the third one isn't. The same idea carries through in a sentence; the parts of a series must be parallel. 

Amy likes reading books, walking on the beach, and to work in her garden. 

The first two verbs are gerunds; the last one is not. To create parallel structure in text headings, each should be similar in nature, either full sentences or phrases, not mixed.  

Amy likes reading books, walking on the beach, and working in her garden (or gardening).

The second type of parallel construction concerns itself with logic, the logic of thoughts following each other. For instance, many business writers end their letters with something like this: 

• If you have any further questions or comments, we're open until 5 p.m.
• If you want to talk to us, we'll be here until 5 p.m. 
• If you need further information, Mr. Smith will be available from noon until 1 p.m.

Question: If the reader has no questions or comments, where will you be? Won't you be there until 5 p.m. regardless of what the reader wants or needs? Won't Mr. Smith be available anyway? There's no logic in the statements. 

For parallel construction, the second half of these sentences must begin with you, so it completes the thought. 

• If you have any further question or comments, you can reach us until 5 p.m. 

• If you want to talk to us, you can call us until 5 p.m.

• If you need further information, you can call Mr. Smith from noon until 1 p.m. 

Small details can have a big impact.