When we talk about DNA, two important parts help everything work well. These are called complementary base pairing and antiparallel strands.

Complementary Base Pairing:

• This is when certain parts of DNA, called nitrogenous bases, match up.
• Adenine (A) pairs with Thymine (T), and Cytosine (C) pairs with Guanine (G).
• This matching is really important because it keeps the genetic code correct. It helps DNA to make copies of itself and also helps in making proteins.

Antiparallel Strands:

• DNA strands go in opposite directions. That’s what we mean by "antiparallel."
• One strand goes from 5' to 3', while the other one goes from 3' to 5'.
• This way of arranging is very important for special proteins, called enzymes, that help copy DNA, like DNA polymerase.

Together, these features not only give DNA its famous double helix shape but also make sure that genetic information can be copied and passed down. You can think of DNA like an instruction book for all living things!