Parallel Structure | Advanced Grammar & Style | English Grammar | Question Banks

Parallel structure (or parallelism) requires using the same grammatical form for coordinate elements in a sentence—ensuring that words, phrases, or clauses that serve similar functions maintain consistent patterns. Ninth-grade instruction should emphasize parallelism as both a grammatical rule and a powerful rhetorical device that enhances clarity, creates rhythm, and strengthens emphasis in more sophisticated writing. Teach parallelism across various structures, including coordinate elements in series ("The candidate promised to lower taxes, to improve education, and to create jobs"), paired constructions with correlative conjunctions ("both in theory and in practice"), and comparative structures ("more concerned with appearing right than being right"). Implement revision-focused activities where students identify and correct faulty parallelism in their own writing and in prepared examples, discussing how parallel structure affects the flow, clarity, and impact of each sentence. Address common parallelism challenges such as mixing gerunds and infinitives ("She enjoys swimming, to hike, and biking"), shifting verb forms within a series ("He washed the car, polished the chrome, and will vacuum the interior"), or inconsistent formations with correlative conjunctions ("The film was both educational and of great entertainment value"). Connect parallel structure to rhetorical analysis by examining how influential speakers and writers throughout history have used parallelism to create memorable, persuasive passages, such as Churchill's "We shall fight on the beaches..." or King's "I Have a Dream" speech, with students analyzing the grammatical patterns that create rhetorical power. Extend learning by having students experiment with parallel structure as a deliberate stylistic choice in their own persuasive and analytical writing, using parallelism to emphasize key points, create rhythmic prose, and establish a more authoritative voice.

1. Which sentence demonstrates correct parallel structure?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.She likes swimming, hiking, and to ride bikes.
B.She likes swimming, hiking, and riding bikes.
C.She likes to swim, hiking, and bike riding.
D.She likes to swim, to hike, and rides bikes.

Explanation:

Parallel structure requires using the same grammatical form throughout a list. 'Swimming, hiking, and riding' are all gerunds, maintaining parallelism.

2. In which sentence are the elements NOT parallel?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.The teacher asked us to read quietly, write neatly, and speak clearly.
B.The coach told the players to run faster, jump higher, and throwing farther.
C.I enjoy reading novels, watching movies, and listening to music.
D.We must either finish the project today or complete it tomorrow.

Explanation:

The non-parallel structure occurs in 'run faster, jump higher, and throwing farther' where 'throwing' is a gerund while the other verbs are in base form.

3. Parallel structure is essential for creating balance and clarity in writing.

TRUE FALSE

True
False

Explanation:

Parallel structure creates rhythm, balance, and clarity by maintaining consistent grammatical forms in related parts of a sentence.

4. Which of the following sentences contain correct parallel structure?

CHECKBOXES

A.The candidate promised to lower taxes, improving healthcare, and create jobs.
B.The candidate promised to lower taxes, to improve healthcare, and to create jobs.
C.She spent her vacation hiking mountains, swimming in lakes, and explored caves.
D.She is not only beautiful but also intelligent.
E.The report was thorough, accurate, and was submitted on time.

Explanation:

Only the sentences that maintain consistent grammatical forms throughout have correct parallel structure.

5. Identify the sentence with faulty parallelism:

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.The documentary was both entertaining and educational.
B.My brother spends his free time playing video games, reading comics, and to ride his bike.
C.The patient needs to rest, take medicine, and follow a special diet.
D.Neither the principal nor the teachers were informed about the change.

Explanation:

The sentence mixes verbal forms: 'playing' and 'reading' (gerunds) with 'to ride' (infinitive), creating faulty parallelism.

6. Correlative conjunctions (such as 'not only/but also' and 'either/or') should always maintain parallel structure.

TRUE FALSE

True
False

Explanation:

Correlative conjunctions require parallel structure to maintain grammatical consistency and logic in the sentence.

7. Which sentence correctly uses parallel structure with correlative conjunctions?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.She not only sings but also dancing.
B.She not only sings but also dances.
C.She not only sings but she also dances.
D.She not only can sing but also dancing.

Explanation:

When using correlative conjunctions like 'not only...but also,' the elements on both sides must be in the same grammatical form. Here, 'sings' and 'dances' are both in present tense.

8. In which sentences is parallel structure correctly maintained?

CHECKBOXES

A.The professor emphasized taking notes, participating in discussions, and to review material regularly.
B.The professor emphasized taking notes, participating in discussions, and reviewing material regularly.
C.He likes to swim, to bike, and to run.
D.Either you must study harder or dropping the class.
E.My goals include earning a degree, starting a business, and to travel internationally.

Explanation:

Parallel structure requires consistent grammatical forms. The correct options maintain consistency with either all gerunds or all infinitives.

9. A sentence with parallel structure often sounds more balanced and professionally written.

TRUE FALSE

True
False

Explanation:

Parallel structure creates rhythm and balance, making writing sound more polished, professional, and elegant.

10. What is wrong with this sentence: 'I enjoy running, swimming, and to bike'?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.The verbs are in different tenses.
B.The sentence has subject-verb disagreement.
C.The sentence mixes gerunds with an infinitive.
D.The sentence uses incorrect prepositions.

Explanation:

The sentence fails to maintain parallel structure by mixing gerunds ('running, swimming') with an infinitive ('to bike').

11. Which sentence demonstrates parallel structure with items in a list?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.The store sells books, magazines, and you can buy newspapers there.
B.The store sells books, magazines, and newspapers.
C.The store sells books, sells magazines, and newspapers are available.
D.The store sells books, you can get magazines, and also newspapers.

Explanation:

Parallel structure in lists requires items to be in the same grammatical form. 'Books, magazines, and newspapers' are all nouns serving as direct objects.

12. When correcting faulty parallelism, you must always convert all elements to match the first element in the series.

TRUE FALSE

True
False

Explanation:

When correcting faulty parallelism, you can convert all elements to match any form (not necessarily the first element) as long as all elements follow the same pattern.

13. Which of the following demonstrate correct parallel structure?

CHECKBOXES

A.The CEO outlined plans for increasing revenue, reducing costs, and how to expand into new markets.
B.The CEO outlined plans for increasing revenue, reducing costs, and expanding into new markets.
C.Neither the teacher nor the students was prepared for the exam.
D.The novelist writes quickly, effectively, and with great attention to detail.
E.We can either stay home or go to the movies.

Explanation:

Parallel structure is maintained when similar elements have the same grammatical form. The correct options use consistent forms throughout.

14. In the sentence 'He likes swimming, running, and to cycle,' what needs to be changed to create parallel structure?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.Change 'swimming' and 'running' to 'to swim' and 'to run'
B.Change 'to cycle' to 'cycling'
C.Change 'likes' to 'enjoys'
D.Change the order of the activities

Explanation:

To maintain parallel structure, all items in the list should be in the same form. Since 'swimming' and 'running' are gerunds, 'to cycle' should be changed to 'cycling'.

15. Parallel structure is primarily about maintaining grammatical consistency rather than semantic consistency.

TRUE FALSE

True
False

Explanation:

Parallel structure focuses on maintaining consistent grammatical forms (nouns, verbs, adjectives, etc.) rather than ensuring items are semantically related, though both are important in good writing.

16. Which sentence correctly uses parallel structure in a comparison?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.Running a marathon is more difficult than to climb a mountain.
B.Running a marathon is more difficult than climbing a mountain.
C.To run a marathon is more difficult than climbing a mountain.
D.Running a marathon is more difficult than a mountain climb.

Explanation:

In comparisons, parallel structure requires the same grammatical form on both sides. 'Running' and 'climbing' are both gerunds, maintaining parallelism.

17. Which elements in a sentence must follow parallel structure?

CHECKBOXES

A.Items in a series or list
B.Elements joined by coordinating conjunctions (and, but, or)
C.Elements in comparisons
D.Elements joined by correlative conjunctions (not only/but also, either/or)
E.Subject and object of a sentence

Explanation:

Parallel structure should be maintained in lists, coordinated elements, comparisons, and with correlative conjunctions to ensure grammatical consistency.

18. In the sentence 'She not only plays tennis but also she swims competitively,' what error in parallel structure exists?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.The objects 'tennis' and 'competitively' are not parallel.
B.The second part repeats the subject 'she' unnecessarily.
C.The verbs 'plays' and 'swims' are in different tenses.
D.The correlative conjunctions are used incorrectly.

Explanation:

With correlative conjunctions like 'not only...but also,' the elements following each part should be parallel. The second 'she' disrupts this parallelism and should be removed.

19. Parallel structure is only important in formal academic writing.

TRUE FALSE

True
False

Explanation:

Parallel structure is important in all types of writing—academic, professional, creative, etc.—as it enhances clarity, rhythm, and readability.

20. Which sentence uses parallel structure correctly with infinitives?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.She wants to travel abroad, learning about new cultures, and to taste exotic foods.
B.She wants to travel abroad, to learn about new cultures, and to taste exotic foods.
C.She wants to travel abroad, to learn about new cultures, and tasting exotic foods.
D.She wants traveling abroad, learning about new cultures, and to taste exotic foods.

Explanation:

Parallel structure with infinitives requires all items to be in infinitive form ('to travel,' 'to learn,' and 'to taste').

21. Which sentences correctly use parallel structure?

CHECKBOXES

A.The chef not only prepares the meals but also serving them.
B.The chef not only prepares the meals but also serves them.
C.Being honest, being kind, and being respectful are important values.
D.She spends her time reading books, watching movies, and bikes around town.
E.To succeed in this course, you must study regularly, complete all assignments, and participate in discussions.

Explanation:

Parallel structure requires consistent grammatical forms. The correct options maintain consistency with either all present tense verbs, all gerund phrases, or all infinitive phrases.

22. In the sentence 'The movie was both entertaining as well as educational,' what parallel structure error occurs?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.The adjectives 'entertaining' and 'educational' are not parallel.
B.The correlative pair should be 'both...and' instead of 'both...as well as.'
C.The sentence needs a comma after 'entertaining.'
D.There is no parallel structure error in this sentence.

Explanation:

The correct correlative conjunction pair is 'both...and.' Using 'both...as well as' mixes two different correlative structures, creating faulty parallelism.

23. Faulty parallelism always makes a sentence grammatically incorrect.

TRUE FALSE

True
False

Explanation:

While faulty parallelism often creates awkward or unclear sentences, it doesn't always make a sentence grammatically incorrect. However, it does impact the quality and professionalism of writing.

24. Which sentence demonstrates correct parallel structure in a comparison?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.I would rather go swimming than to run a marathon.
B.I would rather go swimming than run a marathon.
C.I would rather go swimming than running a marathon.
D.I would rather to swim than to run a marathon.

Explanation:

With 'would rather...than,' parallel structure requires both verbs to be in the same form. 'Go swimming' and 'run a marathon' both use the base form of the verb.

25. Which of the following sentences contain correct parallel structure?

CHECKBOXES

A.The scientist analyzed the data, formulated a hypothesis, and was writing a report.
B.The scientist analyzed the data, formulated a hypothesis, and wrote a report.
C.My favorite activities are swimming, hiking, and to watch movies.
D.He neither called nor sent a message.
E.The book was informative, well-written, and it kept my interest.

Explanation:

Parallel structure requires consistent grammatical forms. The correct options maintain consistency with either all past tense verbs or proper use of correlative conjunctions.

26. What's wrong with this sentence: 'The teacher asked us to read the book, write a summary, and we should discuss our opinions'?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.There's a subject-verb agreement error.
B.The infinitive phrases are not followed consistently.
C.The sentence uses the wrong conjunction.
D.There are too many items in the list.

Explanation:

The sentence starts with infinitive phrases ('to read,' 'write') but shifts to a clause with a subject and modal verb ('we should discuss'), breaking parallel structure.

27. When items in a list contain articles (a, an, the), the articles should either appear in all items or none of them to maintain parallelism.

TRUE FALSE

True
False

Explanation:

Consistent use of articles is part of maintaining parallel structure. Either all items should include articles, or none should, to create proper parallelism.

28. Which sentence correctly uses parallel structure with phrases?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.The painting was displayed in the museum, at an exhibition, and people saw it in an art gallery.
B.The painting was displayed in the museum, at an exhibition, and in an art gallery.
C.The painting was displayed in the museum, was shown at an exhibition, and in an art gallery.
D.The painting was displayed in the museum, it was at an exhibition, and in an art gallery.

Explanation:

Parallel structure with prepositional phrases requires consistent construction. 'In the museum, at an exhibition, and in an art gallery' all follow the same prepositional phrase pattern.

29. Which sentences demonstrate correct parallel structure?

CHECKBOXES

A.The company needs employees who are efficient, reliable, and have creativity.
B.The company needs employees who are efficient, reliable, and creative.
C.Either you must complete the project by Friday or facing the consequences.
D.The novel was long, boring, and it had complex characters.
E.The recipe calls for chopping the vegetables, mixing the ingredients, and baking the dish for an hour.

Explanation:

Parallel structure requires consistent grammatical forms. The correct options maintain consistency with either all adjectives or all gerund phrases.

30. In business writing, parallel structure is especially important in:

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.Bullet points and numbered lists
B.Dates and addresses
C.Company names and titles
D.Page numbers and footnotes

Explanation:

In business writing, parallel structure is particularly crucial in bullet points and numbered lists to ensure readability, professionalism, and clarity in presenting information.

31. Parallel structure can only be applied to verb forms.

TRUE FALSE

True
False

Explanation:

Parallel structure applies to all grammatical forms, including nouns, adjectives, adverbs, phrases, and clauses—not just verbs.

32. Which sentence shows correct parallel structure with adjectives?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.The hotel room was spacious, had cleanliness, and comfortable.
B.The hotel room was spacious, cleanly, and comfortable.
C.The hotel room was spacious, clean, and comfortable.
D.The hotel room was spacious, with cleanliness, and comfortable.

Explanation:

Parallel structure with adjectives requires all adjectives to be in the same form. 'Spacious, clean, and comfortable' are all simple adjectives.

33. Which of the following sentences demonstrate correct parallel structure?

CHECKBOXES

A.The documentary was informative, engaging, and inspired action.
B.The documentary was informative, engaging, and inspiring.
C.The dog not only chased the squirrel but also it barked loudly.
D.We could either stay at a hotel or renting an apartment.
E.The coach advised practicing daily, maintaining a healthy diet, and getting adequate rest.

Explanation:

Parallel structure requires consistent grammatical forms. The correct options maintain consistency with either all adjectives or all gerund phrases.

34. What's the problem with this sentence: 'My hobbies include reading novels, playing chess, and I collect stamps'?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.The list includes too many hobbies.
B.The list mixes gerunds with a complete clause.
C.There's a spelling error in the sentence.
D.The sentence uses the wrong verb tense.

Explanation:

The sentence lacks parallel structure because it begins with gerunds ('reading,' 'playing') but ends with a complete clause ('I collect stamps') instead of another gerund.

35. In speeches and persuasive writing, parallel structure is often used for rhetorical effect.

TRUE FALSE

True
False

Explanation:

Parallel structure creates rhythm and emphasis, making it a powerful rhetorical device in speeches and persuasive writing to drive points home effectively.

36. Which sentence demonstrates correct parallel structure in a complex sentence?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.The senator promised that he would lower taxes, that he would improve healthcare, and creating more jobs.
B.The senator promised that he would lower taxes, that he would improve healthcare, and that he would create more jobs.
C.The senator promised that he would lower taxes, to improve healthcare, and creating more jobs.
D.The senator promised that he would lower taxes, improving healthcare, and that he creates more jobs.

Explanation:

In complex sentences, parallel structure requires that all dependent clauses follow the same pattern. All three clauses begin with 'that he would' followed by a verb.

37. Which sentences demonstrate correct parallel structure?

CHECKBOXES

A.The research paper was well-organized, thoroughly researched, and the writing was clear.
B.The research paper was well-organized, thoroughly researched, and clearly written.
C.He spent his summer working at a cafe, volunteering at a shelter, and he took a trip to Europe.
D.I enjoy reading mystery novels, watching documentary films, and listening to classical music.
E.She is interested in photography, cooking, and to travel.

Explanation:

Parallel structure requires consistent grammatical forms. The correct options maintain consistency with either all past participle phrases or all gerund phrases.

38. What correction should be made to this sentence: 'The assignment requires researching the topic, writing a draft, and edit the final paper'?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.Change 'researching' and 'writing' to 'research' and 'write'
B.Change 'edit' to 'editing'
C.Add 'to' before 'researching'
D.Remove 'the' before 'topic' and 'final paper'

Explanation:

To maintain parallel structure, all items in the list should be in the same form. Since 'researching' and 'writing' are gerunds, 'edit' should be changed to the gerund form 'editing'.

39. Parallel structure is less important in creative writing than in academic writing.

TRUE FALSE

True
False

Explanation:

While creative writing allows more flexibility, parallel structure remains important for creating rhythm, emphasis, and clarity, making it valuable in all writing forms.

40. Which sentence uses correct parallel structure with participles?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.Exhausted from the hike, drenched by the rain, and we were hungry for dinner.
B.Exhausted from the hike, drenched by the rain, and hungry for dinner, we headed home.
C.Exhausted from the hike, drenched by the rain, and we headed home hungry for dinner.
D.Exhausted from the hike, we were drenched by the rain, and hungry for dinner.

Explanation:

Parallel structure with participles requires all elements to be in participle form. 'Exhausted,' 'drenched,' and 'hungry' are all adjectives formed from participles.

41. Which of the following sentences contain correct parallel structure?

CHECKBOXES

A.The manager demanded efficiency, accuracy, and that employees arrive on time.
B.The manager demanded efficiency, accuracy, and punctuality.
C.The recipe is easy to follow, quick to prepare, and healthy eating.
D.She wants to improve her skills, to advance in her career, and to achieve financial independence.
E.The politician spoke convincingly, passionately, and was engaging with the audience.

Explanation:

Parallel structure requires consistent grammatical forms. The correct options maintain consistency with either all nouns or all infinitive phrases.

42. What's wrong with this sentence: 'The tour guide told us about the city's history, pointed out famous landmarks, and we learned about local customs'?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.The sentence has too many elements in the series.
B.The first two elements have the implied subject 'tour guide,' but the third element introduces a new subject 'we.'
C.The verb tenses are inconsistent.
D.The sentence uses incorrect punctuation.

Explanation:

The first two elements share the subject 'tour guide' with the verbs 'told' and 'pointed,' but the third element shifts to a new subject 'we,' breaking the parallel structure.

43. When using bullet points in a presentation, all points should follow the same grammatical pattern to maintain parallel structure.

TRUE FALSE

True
False

Explanation:

In presentations, bullet points should follow the same grammatical pattern to maintain parallel structure, enhancing clarity and professionalism.

44. Which sentence best demonstrates parallel structure in a complex comparison?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.Writing a novel requires more creativity than to write a technical manual.
B.Writing a novel requires more creativity than writing a technical manual.
C.To write a novel requires more creativity than writing a technical manual.
D.Writing a novel requires more creativity than a technical manual's writing.

Explanation:

In comparisons, parallel structure requires the same grammatical form on both sides. 'Writing a novel' and 'writing a technical manual' are both gerund phrases.

45. Which sentences correctly maintain parallel structure?

CHECKBOXES

A.The committee discussed the budget, revised the proposal, and the timeline was extended.
B.The committee discussed the budget, revised the proposal, and extended the timeline.
C.I've always wanted to learn Spanish, play the piano, and skydiving.
D.The book was not only informative but also engaging.
E.He excels at running, swimming, and to cycle long distances.

Explanation:

Parallel structure requires consistent grammatical forms. The correct options maintain consistency with either all past tense verbs or proper use of correlative conjunctions.

46. How should this sentence be corrected for parallel structure: 'She is dedicated to teaching children, helping the community, and she cares about environmental issues'?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.She is dedicated to teaching children, helping the community, and caring about environmental issues.
B.She is dedicated to teaching children, to helping the community, and to caring about environmental issues.
C.She is dedicated to teaching children and helping the community, and she cares about environmental issues.
D.She teaches children, helps the community, and cares about environmental issues.

Explanation:

To maintain parallel structure, all items after 'dedicated to' should be in the same grammatical form. Since the first two items are gerunds ('teaching,' 'helping'), the third should also be a gerund ('caring').

47. Which types of conjunctions require parallel structure?

CHECKBOXES

A.Coordinating conjunctions (and, but, or)
B.Correlative conjunctions (both/and, either/or, neither/nor)
C.Subordinating conjunctions (because, although, since)
D.Conjunctive adverbs (however, therefore, moreover)
E.Comparative conjunctions (than, as)

Explanation:

Coordinating conjunctions, correlative conjunctions, and comparative conjunctions connect elements that should be in parallel form. Subordinating conjunctions and conjunctive adverbs don't require parallel structure.

48. When professional resume writers create bullet points for a resume, they typically start each bullet with an action verb in the same tense to maintain parallel structure.

TRUE FALSE

True
False

Explanation:

Resume writers typically maintain parallel structure by starting each bullet point with an action verb in the same tense (usually past tense for previous jobs), creating a consistent and professional format.

49. Which sentence demonstrates correct parallel structure with prepositional phrases?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.The hikers walked through the forest, over the mountain, and they crossed the river.
B.The hikers walked through the forest, over the mountain, and across the river.
C.The hikers walked through the forest, climbed over the mountain, and across the river.
D.The hikers walked through the forest, over the mountain, and were crossing the river.

Explanation:

Parallel structure with prepositional phrases requires all phrases to follow the same pattern. 'Through the forest, over the mountain, and across the river' all use prepositions followed by noun phrases.

50. Identify which sentences demonstrate correct parallel structure:

CHECKBOXES

A.The vacation was relaxing, enjoyable, and it was educational.
B.The vacation was relaxing, enjoyable, and educational.
C.I came, I saw, I conquered.
D.The essay was well-researched, using clear language, and had logical arguments.
E.He not only plays the guitar but also composes music.

Explanation:

Parallel structure requires consistent grammatical forms. The correct options maintain consistency with either all adjectives following 'was,' all simple past tense clauses with the same structure, or proper use of correlative conjunctions.

51. What parallel structure problem exists in this sentence: 'The new policy focuses on reducing waste, saving energy, and costs will be lowered'?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.The verbs are in different tenses.
B.The sentence mixes gerunds with a complete clause.
C.The objects are not consistently used.
D.The prepositions are inconsistent.

Explanation:

The sentence begins with gerunds ('reducing,' 'saving') but shifts to a complete clause ('costs will be lowered') with a subject and verb, breaking parallel structure.

52. Maintaining parallel structure in your writing is a mark of careful editing and attention to detail.

TRUE FALSE

True
False

Explanation:

Proper parallel structure demonstrates careful editing, attention to detail, and mastery of grammar, which contributes to clear, professional, and polished writing.

53. Which sentence uses correct parallel structure with clauses?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.She said that she would attend the meeting, that she would bring the report, and reviewing the proposal before Friday.
B.She said that she would attend the meeting, that she would bring the report, and that she would review the proposal before Friday.
C.She said that she would attend the meeting, bringing the report, and that she would review the proposal before Friday.
D.She said that she would attend the meeting, that she would bring the report, and the proposal will be reviewed before Friday.

Explanation:

When using dependent clauses in a series, parallel structure requires each clause to follow the same pattern. All three clauses start with 'that she would' followed by a verb.

54. Which of the following sentences demonstrate correct parallel structure?

CHECKBOXES

A.The chef carefully selected the ingredients, meticulously prepared the dish, and was serving it beautifully.
B.The chef carefully selected the ingredients, meticulously prepared the dish, and beautifully served it.
C.She prefers tea over coffee, novels over movies, and painting over drawing.
D.The company values honesty, integrity, and employees should be reliable.
E.To succeed, one must work hard, study regularly, and persistence is necessary.

Explanation:

Parallel structure requires consistent grammatical forms. The correct options maintain consistency with either all adverb-verb-object constructions or all noun-preposition-noun patterns.

55. How would you correct this sentence: 'The coach told us to practice daily, eating nutritious foods, and that we should get enough sleep'?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.The coach told us to practice daily, to eat nutritious foods, and to get enough sleep.
B.The coach told us practicing daily, eating nutritious foods, and getting enough sleep.
C.The coach told us to practice daily, eat nutritious foods, and that we should get enough sleep.
D.The coach told us that we should practice daily, eat nutritious foods, and get enough sleep.

Explanation:

To maintain parallel structure after 'told us,' all elements should be in the same form. Since the first element uses an infinitive ('to practice'), the other elements should also use infinitives ('to eat,' 'to get').

56. Parallel structure is particularly important in standardized tests like the SAT, ACT, and AP English exams.

TRUE FALSE

True
False

Explanation:

Standardized tests like the SAT, ACT, and AP English frequently assess knowledge of parallel structure, making it an important concept for students to master for these exams.

57. Which sentence demonstrates correct parallel structure with a list of infinitives?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.To succeed in this class, you need to study hard, completing all assignments, and attend all lectures.
B.To succeed in this class, you need to study hard, to complete all assignments, and to attend all lectures.
C.To succeed in this class, you need to study hard, completion of all assignments, and attendance at all lectures.
D.To succeed in this class, you need studying hard, completing all assignments, and attending all lectures.

Explanation:

When using infinitives in a list, parallel structure requires all elements to be in infinitive form. 'To study,' 'to complete,' and 'to attend' are all infinitives.

58. Which sentences correctly use parallel structure?

CHECKBOXES

A.The museum offers tours on Mondays, on Wednesdays, and Fridays you can visit.
B.The museum offers tours on Mondays, on Wednesdays, and on Fridays.
C.He likes to hike in the mountains, to swim in the ocean, and riding bikes through the city.
D.The lawyer prepared the documents, interviewed the witnesses, and presented the case.
E.The movie was exciting, suspenseful, and it had excellent acting.

Explanation:

Parallel structure requires consistent grammatical forms. The correct options maintain consistency with either all prepositional phrases or all past tense verbs.

59. What's the parallel structure issue in this sentence: 'The reporter interviewed the witness, wrote the article, and the editor reviewed it'?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.The verbs are not in the same tense.
B.The objects are inconsistent.
C.The last element introduces a new subject.
D.The sentence uses incorrect conjunctions.

Explanation:

The first two elements share the implied subject 'reporter' with verbs 'interviewed' and 'wrote,' but the third element introduces a new subject 'editor,' breaking the parallel structure.

60. Parallel structure is primarily a rule of grammar rather than a stylistic choice.

TRUE FALSE

True
False

Explanation:

While parallel structure is a grammatical concept, it's primarily considered a stylistic choice that enhances clarity, rhythm, and readability rather than a strict grammatical rule.

61. Which sentence uses correct parallel structure with adjective clauses?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.The book that won the award, that broke sales records, and was praised by critics has been adapted into a movie.
B.The book that won the award, that broke sales records, and that was praised by critics has been adapted into a movie.
C.The book that won the award, breaking sales records, and that was praised by critics has been adapted into a movie.
D.The book that won the award, which broke sales records, and was praised by critics has been adapted into a movie.

Explanation:

In a series of adjective clauses, parallel structure requires each clause to follow the same pattern. All three clauses begin with 'that' followed by a subject and verb.

62. Which sentences demonstrate correct parallel structure?

CHECKBOXES

A.The athlete trains hard, competes fiercely, and victory is his goal.
B.The athlete trains hard, competes fiercely, and aims for victory.
C.She not only excels in mathematics but also biology.
D.She excels not only in mathematics but also in biology.
E.To improve your writing, you should read widely, practice regularly, and get feedback is important.

Explanation:

Parallel structure requires consistent grammatical forms. The correct options maintain consistency with either all verb phrases or proper use of correlative conjunctions with prepositions.

63. How would you correct this sentence: 'The advertisement promised big savings, exceptional service, and that customers would be satisfied'?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.The advertisement promised big savings, exceptional service, and customer satisfaction.
B.The advertisement promised that there would be big savings, that there would be exceptional service, and that customers would be satisfied.
C.The advertisement promised big savings, promised exceptional service, and promised that customers would be satisfied.
D.The advertisement promised big savings, exceptional service, and customers will be satisfied.

Explanation:

To maintain parallel structure, all items after 'promised' should be in the same form. Since the first two items are noun phrases ('big savings,' 'exceptional service'), the third should also be a noun phrase ('customer satisfaction').

64. Famous speeches often use parallel structure to create memorable and impactful phrases.

TRUE FALSE

True
False

Explanation:

Famous speeches frequently employ parallel structure to create memorable, impactful, and rhythmic phrases that resonate with audiences, such as 'I have a dream' repeated in Martin Luther King Jr.'s speech.

65. Which sentence demonstrates correct parallel structure with dependent clauses?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.Because he studied diligently, because he attended all classes, and completing all assignments, he earned an A in the course.
B.Because he studied diligently, because he attended all classes, and because he completed all assignments, he earned an A in the course.
C.Because he studied diligently, he attended all classes, and because he completed all assignments, he earned an A in the course.
D.Because he studied diligently, attending all classes, and completing all assignments, he earned an A in the course.

Explanation:

When using dependent clauses in a series, parallel structure requires each clause to follow the same pattern. All three clauses begin with 'because' followed by a subject and verb.

66. Which of the following sentences demonstrate correct parallel structure?

CHECKBOXES

A.The store sells organic fruits, organic vegetables, and you can buy organic dairy products.
B.The store sells organic fruits, organic vegetables, and organic dairy products.
C.She wants a job that is challenging, that is well-paying, and that offers opportunities for advancement.
D.He applied for the scholarship because he had excellent grades, because of his community service, and he had strong recommendation letters.
E.I enjoy watching movies that are thought-provoking, that are visually stunning, and make me laugh.

Explanation:

Parallel structure requires consistent grammatical forms. The correct options maintain consistency with either all noun phrases or all adjective clauses beginning with 'that is.'

67. What parallel structure issue exists in this sentence: 'The company president will review the proposal, sign the contract, and the project begins next week'?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.The verbs are in different tenses.
B.The sentence uses incorrect punctuation.
C.The objects are inconsistent.
D.The sentence has too many elements in the series.

Explanation:

The first two verbs are in future tense with 'will' ('will review,' 'sign'), but the third is in present tense ('begins'), breaking parallel structure. The third element should be 'will begin.'

68. Which of the following famous quotes demonstrates effective parallel structure?

MULTIPLE CHOICE

A.The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.
B.It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.
C.Life is what happens when you're busy making other plans.
D.The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.

Explanation:

Charles Dickens' quote 'It was the best of times, it was the worst of times' uses parallel structure by repeating the same grammatical pattern ('it was the [adjective] of times') to create balance and emphasis.

69. Which sentences use correlative conjunctions with correct parallel structure?

CHECKBOXES

A.He not only plays basketball but also is swimming competitively.
B.He not only plays basketball but also swims competitively.
C.Neither the professor nor the students was prepared for the discussion.
D.Either you must complete the assignment by Friday or face a penalty.
E.Both the movie and watching the play were enjoyable experiences.

Explanation:

Correlative conjunctions require parallel structure. The correct options maintain the same grammatical form on both sides of the conjunction pair ('plays/swims' and 'complete/face').