Writing Tips

Lack of Parallel Structure

The elements of a sentence should have the same form. This similarity in form is called parallel structure. For example, the sentence "Your application was correctly completed, on time, and it was neat" should read: "Your application was correctly completed, on time, and neat."

The same rule applies to lists. For example:

"This type of cabin has three advantages:

1. It is strong.
2. Long life.
3. It is inexpensive."

The second item stands out as different. It should be changed to "It has a long life." Or, the first and third items should be changed to noun forms ("Strength" and "Low Cost").