IELTS Writing: Parallel Structure

What Is Parallel Structure?

Parallel structure, also known as parallelism, refers to the repetition of a consistent grammatical pattern within a sentence or passage. This technique enhances readability, creates balance, and improves the flow of writing. It is particularly useful in lists, paired elements, comparisons, and headings.

Parallel structure ensures that all parts of a sentence maintain the same grammatical form, whether using words, phrases, or clauses. When parallelism is ignored, sentences can become awkward and difficult to read.

Why Is Parallel Structure Important?

Parallel structure keeps writing clear, organized, and smooth. It ensures ideas match, making them easier to follow and emphasizing equal importance. It adds flow, improves readability, and gives writing a professional feel. In short, it helps your message come across more effectively.

A study analyzing English essays found that nearly 60% of grammar mistakes involved faulty parallelism, especially in lists and comparisons.

Common Uses of Parallel Structure

> Parallel Structure in Lists

When listing items in a series, all elements should share the same grammatical form.

> Parallel Structure in Phrases

When using phrases in a series, they should be structured consistently.

> Parallel Structure in Clauses

When combining multiple clauses, they should follow the same pattern.

> Parallel Structure in Paired Elements

Parallelism is necessary when elements are linked by coordinating or correlative conjunctions like and, or, but, nor, either…or, neither…nor, not only…but also.

> Parallel Structure in Comparisons

When making comparisons, ensure that the sentence structure is consistent.

> Parallel Structure in Headings & Outlines

Parallelism should be maintained in academic and professional writing, particularly in outlines and headings.

Incorrect:

• Introduction to Data Science
• Importance of Machine Learning
• Applying AI in Different Sectors
• Ethical concerns in AI are growing rapidly

Correct:

• Introduction to Data Science
• Importance of Machine Learning
• Applications of AI in Different Sectors
• Ethical Concerns in AI

Each heading follows a similar structure, making the outline more readable.

A study on IELTS Writing Task 2 essays found that 35-40% of candidates made parallel structure mistakes, particularly in listing advantages and disadvantages or discussing causes and effects.

How to Improve Parallelism in Writing

Identify the Elements – Look for lists, comparisons, and paired structures.

Check Grammatical Consistency – Ensure all elements share the same form (nouns with nouns, verbs with verbs, etc.).

Read Aloud – This helps spot awkward constructions.

Use Bullet Points for Complex Lists – This makes parallel structure easier to apply.

Practice

Incorrect:

1. She likes dancing, to sing, and playing the guitar.
2. He is good at math, science, and writing.
3. I want to go hiking, swimming, and to bike.
4. The cake was delicious, easy to make, and we had fun.
5. He enjoys playing chess, reading, and to run.
6. She is talented at painting, dancing, and she plays the piano.
7. They love hiking, to bike, and camping.
8. We need to finish the report, complete the analysis, and send the email.
9. She decided to study, to practice, and improving her skills.
10. I’m planning to visit Paris, go to museums, and to relax.
11. The team worked hard, stayed late, and to finish the project.
12. He’s an excellent speaker, writer, and he knows how to lead.
13. We spent the day hiking, eating lunch, and we went shopping.
14. They like to travel, shopping, and visiting family.
15. The children are excited about reading books, painting, and to play outside.
16. I’m looking forward to studying abroad, learning new languages, and to explore different cultures.
17. She’s interested in history, to write, and science.
18. He is skilled at painting, drawing, and to sculpt.
19. The project was time-consuming, challenging, and we finished on time.
20. I enjoy walking in the park, watching movies, and to eat at new restaurants.

Correct:

1. She likes dancing, singing, and playing the guitar.
2. He is good at math, science, and writing.
3. I want to go hiking, swimming, and biking.
4. The cake was delicious, easy to make, and fun to eat.
5. He enjoys playing chess, reading, and running.
6. She is talented at painting, dancing, and playing the piano.
7. They love hiking, biking, and camping.
8. We need to finish the report, complete the analysis, and send the email.
9. She decided to study, practice, and improve her skills.
10. I’m planning to visit Paris, go to museums, and relax.
11. The team worked hard, stayed late, and finished the project.
12. He’s an excellent speaker, writer, and leader.
13. We spent the day hiking, eating lunch, and shopping.
14. They like traveling, shopping, and visiting family.
15. The children are excited about reading books, painting, and playing outside.
16. I’m looking forward to studying abroad, learning new languages, and exploring different cultures.
17. She’s interested in history, writing, and science.
18. He is skilled at painting, drawing, and sculpting.
19. The project was time-consuming, challenging, and completed on time.
20. I enjoy walking in the park, watching movies, and eating at new restaurants.