Writing Strategies: Parallel Structure

Parallel structure is a writing strategy that can turn an unorganized voice into a unified, professional one. Parallel structure simply means using the same pattern of words to show that two or more ideas are of equal importance. Writing that includes a thesis statement can especially benefit from parallel structure; however, all writing that has a more formal purpose can be improved with this strategy.

For example, if we were writing an essay on "liking or disliking autumn," our thesis statement would include at least three reasons to support our point of view.

Parallel structure, again, shows that our three reasons are equally important. Parallel structure may use noun, verb, gerund, infinitive, adjective, or phrase patterns.

Nouns
All of the items in the series would be represented by a noun (a person, place, or thing).

• Autumn is my favorite season because of the leaves, the weather, and the food.

If we wanted to add adjectives to modify these nouns, be sure that each noun has an adjective.

• Autumn is my favorite season because of the colorful leaves, the cooler weather, and the seasonal food.

Verbs

All of the items in the series would be represented by a verb (an action).

• Autumn is my favorite season because I can collect colorful leaves, feel cooler weather, and eat seasonal food.

Gerunds
All of the items in the series would be represented by gerunds (-ing verbs used as nouns).

• Autumn is my favorite season because I love collecting colorful leaves, feeling cooler weather, and eating seasonal food.

Infinitives
All of the items in the series would be represented by an infinitive (a to + verb form used as a noun).

• Autumn is not my favorite season because I do not like to see dying leaves, to wear thicker clothing, or to start school again.

Adjectives
All of the items in the series would be represented by an adjective (a describing word).

• Autumn is not my favorite season because it is gloomy, cold, and dark.

Phrases or Clauses
All of the items in the series would be represented by a type of phrase (a group of words that go together) or clause (a phrase that includes a subject and a verb).

• Autumn is my not favorite season because leaves die, the weather changes, and the sun disappears.
• The reasons I dislike autumn are that the leaves die, that the weather changes, and that the sun disappears.
• Autumn is not my favorite season because the leaves change to a different color, fall off the trees, and stay on the ground.

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