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“Parallel structure means using the same pattern of words to show that two or more ideas have the same level of importance.”
What is a non-parallel structure?
Parallel structure is when you use the same way of describing several things in a list - so non-parallel structure is when you use different ways.
Correct example: The most common ways to network academically using social media are to follow academics and researchers on Twitter, join appropriate groups on LinkedIn or create an account on Academia.edu/ResearchGate.
Each of the options listed uses the same grammatical structure – starting with the base verb forms (follow, join and create). Non-parallel structure occurs when you mix the verb forms.
Incorrect example: The most common ways to network academically using social media are to follow academics and researchers on Twitter, join appropriate groups on LinkedIn or by creating an account on Academia.edu/ResearchGate.
The verbs here are follow, join and creating – different forms of verb (two base forms and one -ing verb). The structure is therefore non-parallel.
Example of non-parallel structure:
Example: According to Kolb (1984), experiential learning consists of having an experience, reflecting on that experience, learning from it and plan changes for the future.
Should be: According to Kolb (1984), experiential learning consists of having an experience, reflecting on that experience, learning from it and planning changes for the future.
Or alternatively: According to Kolb (1984), experiential learning requires you to have an experience, reflect on that experience, learn from it and plan changes for the future.
