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Literature Text
Sentences and lists are awkward when they contain a series of items with inconsistent grammatical structure. But as your reader scans through a series of items with parallel grammatical structure, the relationships between different items of information become clear. Here's an example:
Which of the two sentences below is easier to follow?
At the February meeting we will hold a discussion of the new health plan, whether to revise the procedures manual, and then a draft will be developed of the early retirement policy.
At the February meeting, we will discuss the new health plan, decide whether to revise the procedures manual, and draft an early retirement policy.
In the second example, the parallel verb tenses saved space and helped us grasp the ideas immediately. To help your writing flow smoothly and make sense, use the same format for items you present in a series.
Which of the two sentences below is easier to follow?
At the February meeting we will hold a discussion of the new health plan, whether to revise the procedures manual, and then a draft will be developed of the early retirement policy.
At the February meeting, we will discuss the new health plan, decide whether to revise the procedures manual, and draft an early retirement policy.
In the second example, the parallel verb tenses saved space and helped us grasp the ideas immediately. To help your writing flow smoothly and make sense, use the same format for items you present in a series.
Effective Writing: Parallel Construction
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Comments2
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Absolutely. I think it's really cool that you're posting these writing tips and demystifying this language that we all count on to communicate clearly. I've heard that English is one of the most difficult languages to master; with all the rules, exceptions to the rules and exceptions to the exceptions. I think I do okay but I still manage to learn things when I read your stuff. I was afraid to comment due to my tendency to joke about everything and anything, and I didn't want you to think I was poking fun... but now that you know me a little better expect to see some comments because I DO read your stuff, friend.
Keep up the great work!
Keep up the great work!