A student is editing a complex sentence to ensure it maintains parallel structure. The original sentence reads: 'The company's goals include increasing profits, to expand into new markets, and developing innovative products.' Which revision correctly applies parallel structure?
- AThe company's goals include to increase profits, expanding into new markets, and to develop innovative products.
- BThe company's goals include to increase profits, to expand into new markets, and developing innovative products.
- CThe company's goals include increasing profits, expanding into new markets, and developing innovative products.
- DThe company's goals include increasing profits, expansion into new markets, and the development of innovative products.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. The company's goals include increasing profits, expanding into new markets, and developing innovative products.
Parallel structure requires that items in a series or comparison have the same grammatical form. The original sentence mixes gerunds ('increasing') with an infinitive phrase ('to expand') and another gerund ('developing'). Option A uses a consistent gerund form ('increasing,' 'expanding,' 'developing') for all items in the list, correctly applying parallel structure.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This option incorrectly mixes infinitive phrases ('to increase,' 'to develop') with a gerund ('expanding'), violating parallel structure.
- B. This option incorrectly mixes infinitive phrases ('to increase,' 'to expand') with a gerund ('developing'), violating parallel structure.
- D. This option mixes a gerund ('increasing') with noun forms ('expansion,' 'development'), violating parallel structure.
Parallel Structure
The repetition of a chosen grammatical form within a sentence. By making sure all compared or listed items are in the same grammatical structure, parallel structure creates a sense of rhythm and balance.
- Applies to words, phrases, or clauses in a series.
- Ensures grammatical consistency.
- Enhances clarity and readability.
Memory trick: Parallelism is like a balanced scale: all parts must match weight and form.