Improving Parallelism Name ______________________
Although parallelism sounds as if it might be a gymnastic feat, it is a skillful writing technique that involves
balanced writing. Sentences written so that their parts are balanced or parallel are easy to read and
understand. Parallelism satisfies our basic love of symmetry. We remember expressions such as of the
people, by the people, for the people and Seeing is believing (not Seeing is to believe).
Lacks Parallelism Achieves Parallelism
Candidates must be reliable, creative, and Candidates must be reliable, creative, and
show enthusiasm. enthusiastic.
The committee is expected to monitor timeliness, The committee is expected to monitor timeli-
quality is to be verified, and provide feedback. ness, verify quality, and provide feedback.
________________________________________
Improve the following sentences by perfecting opportunities for parallelism.
1. My boss is well-informed, witty, and she is fair.
2. Business messages must be concise, correct, and written with clarity.
7. The most important considerations for today’s job candidates are the salary, the environment of
work, and candidates give special consideration to career advancement opportunities.
8. This week’s program is all about money—earning it, investing it, and how you will spend it!
9. A high-powered MBA costs hundreds of dollars an hour. Our program covers the same sage advice:
11. The proposal will elaborate on (a) dealing with the public, (b) how to obtain corporate
contributions, and (c) the timing of a marketing campaign.
12. One way small businesses can attract talented employees is to provide opportunities to
telecommute, working in virtual teams, and encourage employees to collaborate online.
Key – Improving Parallelism
The following are possible revisions. Other good revisions may also be possible.
1. My boss is well-informed, witty, and fair.
2. Business messages must be concise, correct, and clear.
6. Not only do we design and support your new wireless network, but also we troubleshoot and
provide free consulting.
7. The most important considerations for today’s job candidates are salary, work environment, and
career advancement opportunities.
8. This week’s program is all about money—earning it, investing it, and spending it.
13. Classes will be available in strength training, flexibility, stress reduction, and
aerobic/cardiovascular conditioning.
14. We have hired a consultant to help managers stay on track with the new organizational plan,
develop team resources, and monitor customer feedback.
15. To make a YouTube video, you should do the following:
a. Obtain a video recording device such as a cell phone, webcam, or camcorder.