Answered By: Theresa Bell (she/her/hers)
Last Updated: Aug 26, 2021     Views: 220

Sentences with parallel structure repeat parts of speech in the same form to create patterns. Parallel sentences organize information efficiently; they minimize structural differences and simplify connections between ideas. If these patterns are predictable, readers are able to focus their attention on the important information in a sentence. These advantages are especially clear in the cases of parallel lists and correlatives.

Example of a parallel list: "Anna likes running, hiking, and cycling."

Example of a correlative: "Royal Roads University is both beautiful and historic."

For more examples and information about parallel structure please see "Parallel structure".