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Multiple Choice

Is the following sentence grammatically correct? In order to complete the research paper on time, going to the library, reading many sources, synthesizing the information and, finally, to write my paper are all necessary.

The sentence lacks proper parallel structure in the series of actions described. In a list, it's essential that all elements follow the same grammatical form. In this instance, the actions include "going," "reading," "synthesizing," and "to write." The first three actions are presented as gerunds (verbs ending in -ing), while "to write" is an infinitive phrase. To maintain parallel structure, all the actions should either be in gerund form or all in infinitive form. A revised version could read, "In order to complete the research paper on time, going to the library, reading many sources, synthesizing the information, and finally writing my paper are all necessary," which keeps the gerund form consistent throughout. This adherence to parallel structure is crucial for clarity and fluidity in writing.

The sentence lacks proper parallel structure in the series of actions described. In a list, it's essential that all elements follow the same grammatical form. In this instance, the actions include "going," "reading," "synthesizing," and "to write." The first three actions are presented as gerunds (verbs ending in -ing), while "to write" is an infinitive phrase.

To maintain parallel structure, all the actions should either be in gerund form or all in infinitive form. A revised version could read, "In order to complete the research paper on time, going to the library, reading many sources, synthesizing the information, and finally writing my paper are all necessary," which keeps the gerund form consistent throughout. This adherence to parallel structure is crucial for clarity and fluidity in writing.