In a parallel circuit, how does the total resistance compare to the individual resistances?

In a parallel circuit, the total (equivalent) resistance is always less than the smallest individual resistor because adding more parallel paths gives the current more ways to flow, reducing overall resistance. The total is found with the reciprocal formula 1/R_total = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + ... This contrasts sharply with a series circuit, where resistances add up and the total is larger than any single resistor. Remembering that parallel lowers total resistance (more paths) while series raises it (one path) is a frequently tested circuit concept.