Parallel structure is when you use the same way of describing several things in a list. For example:

The most common ways to network academically using social media are to follow academics and researchers on Twitter, join appropriate groups on LinkedIn or create an account on Academia.edu/ResearchGate.

Each of the options listed uses the same grammatical structure – starting with the base verb forms (follow, join and create). Non-parallel structure occurs when you mix the verb forms. For example:

The most common ways to network academically using social media are to follow academics and researchers on Twitter, join appropriate groups on LinkedIn or by creating an account on Academia.edu/ResearchGate.

The verbs here are follow, join and creating – different forms of verb (two base forms and one -ing verb). The structure is therefore non-parallel.

Another example of non-parallel structure:

According to Kolb (1984), experiential learning consists of having an experience, reflecting on that experience, learning from it and plan changes for the future.

Should be:

According to Kolb (1984), experiential learning consists of having an experience, reflecting on that experience, learning from it and planning changes for the future.

Or alternatively:

According to Kolb (1984), experiential learning requires you to have an experience, reflect on that experience, learn from it and plan changes for the future.

QUIZ: Non-parallel structure