A modifier that opens a sentence must be followed immediately by the word it is meant to describe. Otherwise, the result is a DANGLING MODIFIER.

Here’s an example:

Jumping from limb to limb, the spectators at the zoo were delighted by the monkeys.

The spectators weren’t jumping, were they? That’s the trouble with DANGLING MODIFIERS. The sentences take on an unintended meaning.

Ø Writers could put the subject right after the opening word group.

Jumping from limb to limb, the monkeys delighted the spectators at the zoo.

Ø Writers could also place the subject within the opening word group.

While the monkeys were jumping from limb to limb, they delighted the spectators at the zoo.

Correcting Dangling Modifiers

Decide on a logical subject, and do one of the following:

1. Place the subject right after the opening word group.

OR

2. Place the subject within the opening word group.