Modifiers

• Modifier Rule: The modifying phrase (phrase before the comma) should be describing the word right after the comma. Otherwise it's wrong. 
  • Incorrect: Walking down the street, the mansion was spotted by Amy. 
    • Explanation: The mansion wasn't actually walking down the street. 
  • Correct: Walking down the street, Amy spotted the mansion. 
    • Explanation: Amy was walking down the street so we need to put "Amy" after the comma. ​
      
      
  • Incorrect: Despite having finished her homework, the teacher wouldn't let Jenna leave class early.
    • Explanation: The teacher wasn't the one who finished the homework.
  • Correct: Despite having finished her homework, Jenna wasn't allowed to leave class early.
    • Explanation: Jenna finished her homework so we put "Jenna" after the comma. ​