We\u2019ve talked about this subject before. When you write a list of items, your amateur status as a writer glares through when you neglect to make each item conform. In other words, when you introduce a list, each item following should conform to the introduction. Here\u2019s an example of a list that does not conform. \u201cWhen you go to the beach, you\u2019re likely to encounter, riptides, stingrays, go sailing, rent a surfboard and jellyfish,\u201d part of your list does not conform. Each item should work off of the original introduction. You should be able to use each item correctly in a complete sentence with the introduction: \u201cWhen you go to the beach, you\u2019re likely to encounter riptides.\u201d \u201cWhen you go to the beach, you\u2019re likely to encounter stingrays.\u201d \u201cWhen you go to the beach, you\u2019re likely to encounter go sailing\u2026\u201d This does not work. <\/p>\n
Sure, it seems elementary\u2014it IS elementary. But many writers still goof up their \u201clists,\u201d by inserting words, terms and partial sentences that just don\u2019t fit. In order to correct this list, you might change it to, \u201criptides, stingrays, opportunities to go sailing, surfboard rentals and jellyfish.\u201d<\/p>\n
Here\u2019s another example of a nonconforming list. \u201cThis book will benefit individuals:
\n\u2022\tstruggling with drug addiction
\n\u2022\tlooking to discover help with their addiction
\n\u2022\twhat their purpose in life will be
\n\u2022\tinterested to work through personal issues
\n\u2022\twho want to change their behavior
\n\u2022\tsearching for a new identity\u201d<\/p>\n
Rather, I would suggest this: \u201cThis book will benefit individuals who are:<\/p>\n
\u2022\tstruggling with drug addiction
\n\u2022\tlooking for help with their addiction
\n\u2022\tseeking their purpose in life
\n\u2022\tinterested in working through personal issues
\n\u2022\tready to change their behavior
\n\u2022\tsearching for a new identity\u201d<\/p>\n
Do you see how you could take each of the items on this list and create complete sentences using the introduction? If you cannot create sentences that work using each of the items on the lists you\u2019re constructing, you need to reframe those items\u2014and maybe the introduction, as well.<\/p>\n