12 Be Consistent. Once a writer begins writing one way, he or she should continue writing that way instead of switching back and forth.
Details	Incorrect Example	Correct Example
a) Write similar things in a similar way. (This is called parallelism.)	She enjoys running, jumping, and to throw the javelin.	She enjoys running, jumping, and throwing the javelin.
b) When using plural, stick to plural. When using singular, stick to singular.	A person should decide for themselves. People need exercise in their life.	People should decide for themselves. People need exercise in their lives.
	Football and hockey are a popular sport.	Football and hockey are popular sports.
c) Do not switch between autobiography and third person.	Writers must beware of mistakes, such as when I shift my point of view.	A writer must not shift his or her point of view.	As a writer, I have learned I must not shift my point of view.
d) Do not switch verb tenses without a reason.	He went upstairs and sits down on his bed.	He went upstairs and sat down on his bed.