Simply put, probation is a type of criminal sentence that allows you to continue living in the community rather than serve time in prison, as long as you follow certain rules, such as:

1. regularly reporting to a probation officer;
2. refraining from using alcohol and drugs;
3. not committing any further crimes.

Parole, on the other hand, is when you are released from jail or prison into the community, under the supervision of a parole officer, before the end of your sentence. The rules or conditions for parole are similar to those of probation.