Misplaced Modifiers / Gerund Phrases

Instructions: The sentences below have introductory gerund phrases. To correct the errors, you will need to rewrite part of each sentence. Your goal is either to turn the phrase into a clause (with a subject and verb) or to make the subject of the phrase the subject of the independent clause. For example:

Incorrect: Arriving late to the interview, the résumé was not in Linda's briefcase.
Corrected: Arriving late to the interview, Linda could not find her résumé in her briefcase.

1. Running across the hallway, the copy paper fell from the assistant's hands.

Your Answer:

Reveal Revised Sentence

Running across the hallway, the assistant dropped the copy paper.

2. Waiting impatiently, the résumé of the applicant became crumpled.

Your Answer:

Reveal Revised Sentence

Waiting impatiently, the applicant crumpled the [or his or her] résumé.

3. Causing a commotion in the hallway, the security guard asked the visitors to leave.

Your Answer:

Reveal Revised Sentence

The visitors caused a commotion in the hallway, and the security guard asked them to leave.

4. Filling the cup to the brim, the hot coffee spilled on Allana's desk.

Your Answer:

Reveal Revised Sentence

Filling the cup to the brim, Allana spilled hot coffee on her desk.

5. Leaving his attaché case in the taxi, it was 10 o’clock before Mark reached his office.

Your Answer:

Reveal Revised Sentence

Mark left his attaché case in the taxi, and he didn't reach his office until 10 o’clock.