NAME OF STUDENT…………………………………………………

DANGLING MODIFIERS
Decide whether the modifying phrase or clause is dangling or not. C means the
modifier is correctly phrased and/or positioned, while W means it is wrongly phrased
and/or positioned. Write the number corresponding to your answer.
1. While writing the last sentence, the lead of my pencil broke.
1. C 2. W

2. In going backstage to speak to one of the cast, the director made a lot of
noise.
1. C 2. W

3. The necessity of getting there before the concert began was too great for us
to wait for him any longer.
1. C 2. W

4. In assigning my work contract to a supervisor, the manager made no

apparent attempt to utilize my special skills and interest.
1. C 2. W

5. To facilitate counseling, the dean of students advised the concentration of

freshmen in certain divisions of the residence halls.
1. C 2. W

6. The light was too dim for us to tell whether the animal was a sheep, a goat,
or a small pony.
1. C 2. W

7. Staring desperately through the ice-blurred windshield, the driver tightened

his grip on the wheel.
1. C 2. W

8. By working extra hours, the job was finished in two days.

1. C 2. W

9. By sitting on it with wet bathing suits, the swimming team ruined the surface
of that lovely table.
1. C 2. W

10. Before granting me financial aid, I was expected to tell the college authorities
the details of my private affairs.
1. C 2. W
11. To get the best results from this treatment, rest an hour before you take it.
1. C 2. W

12. Lured by a fat worm, the old trout struck the hook savagely.
1. C 2. W

13. Having opened the garage door for the chauffeur, the shiny new car sped
past the little boy.
1. C 2. W

14. The book was too hastily read to tell whether it was good or not.
1. C 2. W

15. While still in jail, the governor received a letter from the prisoner asking for
an early parole.
1. C 2. W

16. Caught in a late rain, the return trip had to be made by train.
1. C 2. W

17. My prospects of financial aid and employment were explained before coming
to college.
1. C 2. W

18. Embarrassed although he did not know what he had done wrong, Henry
stood shifting from foot to foot.
1. C 2. W

19. After suffering under the poverty and oppression of the Tsarist regime, it is
easy to understand why the Russians believe their government is the right
one.
1. C 2. W

20. Placing the ball carefully before beginning the swing, a player’s grip should be
firm but not tense.
1. C 2. W