parallel structure

Matching forms in a list or a comparison.

In a list or a comparison, keep the same grammatical form. If the first item is a gerund, the rest are gerunds: She likes cooking, swimming, and reading. If the first is a base verb, the rest are base verbs. The items may be words, phrases, or clauses. Keep them the same kind.

Examples

Use I like hiking, swimming, and reading.

Avoid I like hiking, swimming, and to go to the movies.

Use The job includes sorting mail, stacking boxes, and working nights.

Avoid The job includes sorting mail, stacking boxes, and the night shift.