Parallel Structure Worksheet
Can you choose the best sentence? Don't worry about following rules. Use your English-language intuition.

Select the sentence that illustrates the use of proper parallel construction.

  1. Phuong Tran has wit, charm, and she has an extremely pleasant personality.
    Phuong Tran has wit, charm, and a pleasing personality.

  2. In English class, Tashonda learned to read poems critically and to appreciate good prose.
    In English class, Tashonda learned to read poems critically and she appreciated good prose.

  3. Raoul's GPA is higher than Ralph.
    Raoul's GPA is higher than Ralph's.

  4. He wanted three things out of college: to learn a skill, to make good friends, and to learn about life.
    He wanted three things out of college: to learn a skill, to make good friends, and learning about life.

  5. Coach Espinoza was a brilliant strategist, a caring mentor, and a wise friend.
    Coach Espinoza was a brilliant strategist, a caring mentor, and friend.

  6. We found the film repulsive, offensive, and we thought it was embarrassing.
    We found the film repulsive, offensive, and embarrassing.

  7. Mr. Zhang kept his store clean, neat, and he made it conveniently arranged.
    Mr. Zhang kept his store clean, neat, and conveniently arranged.

  8. Professor Ali rewarded his students for working hard on the final project and going beyond the call of duty.
    Professor Ali rewarded his students for their hard work on the final project and going beyond the call of duty.

  9. There's nothing I like better than finding a good trout stream, setting up camp, and spending a couple of days fishing. There's nothing I like better than finding a good trout stream, setting up camp, and to spend a couple of days fishing.


Directions: The following sentences could be improved with the use of proper parallel constructions. Rewrite each on your own paper.


1. Espinoza's style was remarkable for its dexterity, grace, and she could play any position.

2. Raoul's motivation to succeed in this program seems to be greater than his sister

3. Three of the great Indian nations in the Central Plains are the Cherokee, the Choctaw, and Comanche.

4. Either you will begin to study now or risk failing the exam.

5. The college has space for a new computer lab but not a faculty lounge.

6. Her conditions for signing the contract are, first, the commissioner has to approve the terms; second, that the other players must sign as well.

7. Carlos wasted his first year at college by not studying enough and spending too much time at parties.

8. We have no doubt about her care and interest in the proposal.

9. The students prepared for their exams at home, they spent extra hours with their tutors, they did the necessary research in the library, and asked questions in their classrooms.