Basic Electronics for Beginners in 20 Steps

Step 4: Series Vs. Parallel

You can wire components in two ways: in series or in parallel.

• Series Circuit: In a series circuit, components are connected one after another, so electricity flows through each component sequentially. In the example above, the motor, switch, and battery are wired in series, meaning the electricity must pass through each component in turn.

• Parallel Circuit: In a parallel circuit, components are connected side by side, so electricity flows through all of them simultaneously, from one common point to another. In the next example, the motors are wired in parallel because electricity flows through both motors from a common point to another common point.

In a more complex setup, motors might be wired in parallel, but the motors, switch, and battery are still connected in series. This way, the current splits between the motors in parallel but flows through the other parts of the circuit in series.

If this concept seems a bit confusing now, don't worry---it will make more sense as you start building your own circuits.