Having completed the marathon, _______.

4
reading

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A

exhaustion overcame the runner

B

it was a great achievement for the runner

C

the finish line marked a personal best

D

the runner celebrated the accomplishment

Correct Answer: D

Choice D is the best answer. This question tests dangling modifier correction.

  1. Context clues: "Having completed the marathon" must modify whoever did the completing.
  2. Meaning: Only a person can complete a marathon.
  3. Verify: "Having completed the marathon, the runner celebrated" shows who completed it.

💡 Strategy: A participial phrase must modify the subject that immediately follows.

Choice A is incorrect because "exhaustion" cannot complete a marathon. Choice B is incorrect because "it" is vague and didn't complete the marathon. Choice C is incorrect because "finish line" cannot complete a marathon.