GED Reasoning Through Language ArtsLanguage Conventions and UsageHard
A student is revising an essay for clarity and conciseness. Which sentence avoids a dangling modifier?
- AHaving finished the assignment, the computer was shut down.
- BAfter reviewing the data, the manager presented the findings.
- CWalking through the park, the beautiful flowers were seen.
- DTo earn a good grade, extra effort was put in.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. After reviewing the data, the manager presented the findings.
Option C correctly avoids a dangling modifier. The introductory phrase 'After reviewing the data' clearly and logically modifies 'the manager', who is the one performing the action of reviewing. In options A, B, and D, the introductory phrases do not logically modify the subjects of their main clauses.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This is a dangling modifier; 'Having finished the assignment' incorrectly suggests the computer finished the assignment.
- C. This is a dangling modifier; 'Walking through the park' incorrectly suggests the beautiful flowers were walking.
- D. This is a dangling modifier; 'To earn a good grade' incorrectly suggests 'extra effort' is trying to earn a grade.
Dangling Modifiers
A dangling modifier is a phrase or clause that modifies a word not clearly stated in the sentence. It 'dangles' because it has nothing to attach to, creating confusion about who or what is performing the action.
- Introductory phrase or clause.
- Does not logically modify the subject of the main clause.
- Creates illogical or nonsensical meaning.
- To fix: rephrase the main clause or add a clear subject to the modifying phrase.
Memory trick: Modifiers must cling, to what they're describing, or they'll just swing.