_______ the scientist confirmed her hypothesis about cellular regeneration.
3
readingWhich choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
After analyzing the experimental data,
B
After analyzing the experimental data, the hypothesis
C
The experimental data having been analyzed,
D
Having been analyzed,
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. This question tests dangling modifier correction.
- Context clues: The modifying phrase must logically connect to the subject that follows.
- Meaning: The subject immediately after a participial phrase must be the one performing that action.
- Verify: "After analyzing... the scientist confirmed" correctly shows the scientist did the analyzing.
💡 Strategy: A participial phrase at the beginning of a sentence must modify the subject that immediately follows.
Choice B is incorrect because "the hypothesis" cannot analyze data. Choice C is incorrect because it makes "the scientist" the thing analyzed. Choice D is incorrect because it leaves unclear who or what was analyzed.