PSAT Writing : Identifying Misplaced or Interrupting Modifier Errors

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for PSAT Writing

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Identifying Modifier Placement Errors

Select the underlined word or phrase that needs to be changed to make the sentence correct. Some sentences contain no error at all.

The local coffeeshop’s sudden surge in popularity was largely attributed to them redecorating shark-themedNo error

Possible Answers:

largely

No error

surge in popularity

The local coffeeshop's

them redecorating shark-themed

Correct answer:

them redecorating shark-themed

Explanation:

The last phrase in this sentence is phrased awkwardly. Changing it to an adjective-noun combination makes the sentence run much more smoothly: "The local coffeeshop’s sudden surge in popularity was largely attributed to their shark-themed redecoration."

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