I was doing an SAT question of the day today and in my process I got a question wrong and it said something about parallel construction.
What exactly is this? Could I get examples of how to use it.
Thanks.
A NON-TEACHER'S COMMENT
Hello, Vaironl:
(1) You have asked a mighty big question that cannot be answered
in a single post.
(2) Basically, I think that you should always remember one word:
balance.
(3) Here are some examples from my books:
Not parallel: People began to feel as though they have no faces and insignificant.
Parallel: People began to feel faceless and insignificant.
(See how "faceless and insignificant" looks and sounds balanced.)
***
As the forest lives, decays, and is devoured by itself, it spawns exotic treasures.
Now read (aloud) this balanced sentence:
As the forest lives, decays, and devours itself, it spawns exotic creatures.
***
I delight in a good novel -- one that portrays strong characters and in reading the book you are thrilled by the plot.
Much more balanced: I delight in a good novel -- one that portrays strong characters and that has a thrilling plot.
***
Just one more example. OK?
The place is often visited by tourists who are fond of rugged scenery, and especially amateur photographers.
Of course, we understand that sentence. But some very strict SAT graders might say that the sentence seems to say that those tourists
are especially fond of amateur photographers!!!
We can make that sentence parallel by adding one little word.
I'm sure that you know the word. That's right: "by." Just place
"by" in front of "amateur," and the problem is solved.
(4) If you go to the "search" box at the top of this page and
type in "parallel sentences," you will find some helpful threads.
(5) I wish to give 100% credit for the sentences that I used to:
Harbrace College Handbook by Professors John C. Hodges and
Mary E. Whitten;
College Handbook of Composition by Professors Edwin C. Woolley, Franklin W. Scott, and Frederick Bracher.
Best of luck on your SATs.
Sincerely yours,
James
