3.
Dangling Modifiers
A dangling modifier appears at the beginning or end of a sentence but does not clearly modify
any word in the sentence. It often results in an unintended or illogical meaning.
Example
a. While conducting research, many ethical dilemmas must be considered.
b. While conducting research, scholars must consider many ethical dilemmas.
Why is the first sentence incorrect?
The phrase While conducting research should modify a subject, but ethical dilemmas cannot
conduct research. The corrected sentence makes it clear that scholars are doing the research.
How to Fix Dangling Modifiers:
Add a subject that the modifier clearly describes.
Rewrite the sentence to ensure logical meaning.
Pair work (10 minutes)
In each pair, explain why the first sentence is incorrect, and discuss why the second one is
correct.
1. a. While analysing global poverty, several key factors were identified.
b. While analysing global poverty, the researchers identified several key factors.
2. a. Having arrived late, a written excuse was needed.
b. Having arrived late, the candidate needed to have a written excuse.
3. a. To see the parade better, a tree was climbed.
b. To see the parade better, the boy climbed a tree.
1
Quick Recap of Modifier Errors
Error Type Problem Example (Incorrect) Example (Corrected)
She served sandwiches She served sandwiches
Misplaced Modifier is too far from the
to the guests on paper on paper plates to the
Modifier word it describes.
plates. guests.
Modifier is placed between
Squinting Students who study Students who often study
two possible words, making
Modifier often pass their exams. pass their exams.
the meaning unclear.
Walking to school, I felt
Dangling Modifier has no clear subject Walking to school, the
cold because of the
Modifier to modify. weather was cold.
weather.
Key Takeaways
✔ Misplaced Modifiers → Place modifiers near the words they describe.
✔ Squinting Modifiers → Avoid placing modifiers between two possible meanings.
✔ Dangling Modifiers → Ensure the sentence has a clear subject performing the action.
Exercise (Assignment)
Each sentence contains a modifier error. Rewrite the sentence so that its meaning is clear and
correct.
1. She nearly studied for five hours before the sociology examination.
2. The professor only discussed gender roles in the lecture.
3. The candidates only analysed data from one region of the country.
4. He nearly published his research findings last semester.
5. The team nearly completed the entire community survey.
6. The psychologist observed the child with a notepad in her hand.
7. Reading the reports carefully, several interesting trends were noted.
8. Interested in urban development, the housing patterns of the city were mapped out by the
sociologist.
9. Students who miss classes often fail examinations.
10. Policies that support gender equality significantly improve workplace environments.