Parallelism: Lists After A Colon

When making a list after a colon, any form of word is permitted, but you should be consistent form. Use all nouns, all adjectives, all adverbs, or all one form of verb.

There are many things to be considered when writing: good grammar, how to spell, the way sentences are made, and vocabulary.

There are many things to be considered when writing: grammar, spelling, sentence structure, and vocabulary.

Andrew couldn’t figure out what to do with his free time: to play computer games, watch football, or sleeping.

Andrew couldn’t figure out what to do with his free time: play computer games, watch football, or sleep.

The same rule applies if the list precedes the colon.

Charming, graciously, and elegance: Mary is all of these things and more.

Charming, gracious, and elegant: Mary is all of these things and more.