Navigating the PERT: Mastering Parallel Structure for Success

    When preparing for the Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT), it’s crucial to sharpen your writing skills, particularly the concept of parallel structure. “What’s that?” you might wonder. Well, simply put, it’s a grammatical format that ensures your sentences flow smoothly and sound polished. Think of it like a well-composed piece of music—every note needs to fit harmoniously to create a symphony, right?  

    Let's start off with an example question that captures the essence of parallel structure:  

    **Which sentence demonstrates proper parallel structure?**  
    A. While writing, we were mindful of good grammar, a respectful tone, and aware of our reader.  
    B. While writing, we paid close attention to proper grammar, appropriate tone, and reader expectations.  
    C. While writing, we used good grammar, a respectful tone, and watchful to our audience.  
    D. While writing, we were mindful of grammar, tone, and paid attention to our audience.  

    Now, if you’re thinking what I’m thinking, the answer is B. This sentence maintains a clear and consistent structure throughout its list: “proper grammar,” “appropriate tone,” and “reader expectations.” Each element flows into the next seamlessly. Sounds good, right?  

    But, why does this matter? Well, without a robust understanding of parallel structure, your writing can come off as disjointed or confusing. Imagine trying to read a sentence that mixes different grammatical forms—yikes! It gets awkward fast. In other examples, like options A, C, and D, the mix and mismatch of phrases tend to confuse readers, losing clarity and coherence—definitely not ideal when you’re aiming for a good score on the PERT.  

    Let’s break this down further. Maintaining parallel structure boosts clarity. When each part of your list mirrors the others in format (like adjectives followed by nouns), it creates an organized and digestible sentence. We’re all busy students here; who has the time to spend deciphering poorly structured sentences, right?  

    So, how do you practice this? Here are a few practical tips to enhance your writing skills:  

    - **Read Aloud**: Seriously, try it! When you read your sentences out loud, you’ll often catch awkwardness that might slip by unnoticed when reading silently.  
    - **Create Lists**: Craft sentences using lists related to your daily life or study topics. This could be anything from shopping lists to study agendas! The more you practice, the more instinctive it becomes.  
    - **Peer Review**: Sometimes, all you need is a fresh pair of eyes. Have a friend or classmate review your work for clarity and structure. They might catch things you miss!  

    And you know what’s fun? Juggling ideas! If you’re working on a project, let’s say a research paper, and you need to present your argument, keeping your evidence in a parallel structure can make your writing shine. For instance, you might state: “The study highlights increased engagement, enhanced understanding, and improved retention.” Doesn’t that sound compelling?  

    Lastly, remember that writing is a skill that develops over time. Don’t rush the process. Take your time to refine your work, ensuring it’s clear and well-structured. Learning and applying these techniques will serve you well, not just for the PERT but in all your writing journeys ahead.  

    So, the next time you sit down to draft something, keep parallel structure top of mind. Trust me; it’s going to make your writing so much more impactful! Remember: clarity is key!