IF-THEN CONSTRUCTIONS

[ParthJ26]

Hi, Sage/Stacey!

IF - THEN CONSTRUCTIONS

1. IF X, THEN Y - When both X and Y are clauses, is is true that both the clauses must either be in the active voice or in the passive voice for proper parallel structure?

If I exercise, I obtain more energy. CORRECT?

If I exercise, more energy is obtained. INCORRECT?

2. IF X, THEN Y - When both X and Y are clauses, is is true that the subject pronoun in the Y clause should refer to the subject of the X clause?

Thanks in advance

Parth Jain

[Sage Pearce-Higgins]

1. IF X, THEN Y - When both X and Y are clauses, is is true that both the clauses must either be in the active voice or in the passive voice for proper parallel structure?

Yes, that's the case. There's a famous problem about starfish that tests that. However, I'd say that this is a borderline issue for GMAT, i.e. it's the kind of rule that they're likely to break on some occasions.

2. IF X, THEN Y - When both X and Y are clauses, is is true that the subject pronoun in the Y clause should refer to the subject of the X clause?

This sounds good as a general principle (i.e. parallel pronoun use). However, I'm sure it's possible to think up an exception. Remember that clarity of meaning is the most important thing.