Using Parallel Verbs

Using Parallel Verbs When speaking and writing in English, we sometimes use more than one verb to describe what is happening. For example:
Thomas speaks and studies English.
The important thing to remember is- when the subject does two or more things, the verbs use the same tense. More examples:

Thomas spoke and studied English.
Thomas will speak and (will) study English.
Thomas can speak and (can) study English.
Thomas is speaking and (is) studying English.

If the verb has a helping verb (like will, can, is, are, etc.) you must use it before the first verb but you may or may not use it after. It is your choice. Usually it is not used.

Check Your Understanding
Are these sentences correct? Check your answers below.

1. John goes to the cafe and ate breakfast.
Correct
Not correct
2. Marty will bring the game and plays it.
Correct
Not correct
3. Alex can play the piano and sing songs.
Correct
Not correct
4. Tory is helping and watching at the same time.
Correct
Not correct
5. Mr. Jones can drive a car and eating lunch.
Correct
Not correct
6. Helen sits and waited for the train.
Correct
Not correct
7. Cary will go to school and will study there.
Correct
Not correct
8. Franklin cleans his house and found his keys.
Correct
Not correct
Answers 1-NC, 2-NC, 3-C, 4-C 5-NC, 6-NC, 7-C, 8-NC