The document defines parallelism as using the same grammatical pattern when listing items in a sentence. It provides examples of parallel structures using -ing verbs, infinitives, and adverbs. The document notes that patterns should not be mixed within a sentence and provides examples of non-parallel constructions. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining parallel structure for clarity and effective communication.

1. Parallelism
Susan Kelly

2. What is Parallelism?
• Using the same pattern when listing items
in a sentence.

3. Examples
• Some examples:
– Jem enjoyed playing football and exploring
the neighborhood.
• All consist of ---ing and a noun
– Scout liked to swim, to read and to play.
• All consist of infinitives (to verbs)
– The judge wrote his report quickly, accurately,
and thoroughly.
• All consist of adverbs.

4. Parallel Clauses
• A lawyer should give an opening speech,
question witnesses and give a closing
argument.

5. Never Mix Patterns
• Wrong:
– I like to swim and playing basketball.
– Atticus explains things to Scout kindly and in a
clear way.
– We were hungry and in need of sleep.

6. Wrong Clauses
• The salesman expected that he would
present his product at the meeting, that
there would be time for him to show his
slide presentation, and that questions
would be asked by prospective buyers.

7. Not Parallel
• The coach told the players that they
should get a lot of sleep, that they should
not eat too much, and to do some warm-
up exercises before the game.

8. Parallel
• The coach told the players that they
should get a lot of sleep, that they should
not eat too much, and that they should do
some warm-up exercises before the
game.
• — or —
The coach told the players that they
should get a lot of sleep, not eat too much,
and do some warm-up exercises before
the game.

9. Fix These
• The children think Boo is crazy and acts
dangerously.
• Scout likes to play with boys and reading
with her father.
• Calpernia teaches Scout to behave and is
a good cook.