.. _parallelism:

Parallelism
###########

Parallelism refers to the practice of using similar patterns of grammar, and
sometimes length, to coordinate words, phrases, and clauses.

Parallel construction is especially important in bulleted lists. The table
shows some unparallel structures and how they can be made parallel with a
little rewording.

+----------------------------------+----------------------------------+
| Parallel (do)                    | Unparallel (don't)               |
+==================================+==================================+
| 1. Mount the panel.              | 1. Mount the panel.              |
| 2. Install the battery.          | 2. Battery installation.         |
| 3. Wire the keypad.              | 3. Wiring the keypad.            |
+----------------------------------+----------------------------------+
| The system sends a message to    | The system sent a message to the |
| the call center, which calls the | call center, which calls the     |
| customer and tells about the     | customer and will tell about the |
| burglary.                        | burglary.                        |
+----------------------------------+----------------------------------+
| The system tried to send alarm   | The system tried to send alarm   |
| messages that were precise and   | messages that had precision and  |
| accurate.                        | were accurate.                   |
+----------------------------------+----------------------------------+
| You need to install the panel,   | You need to install the panel,   |
| wire the sensors, and test the   | wire the sensors, and you        |
| phone line.                      | must test the phone line.        |
+----------------------------------+----------------------------------+
