Some of the most common errors I see in manuscripts are what I call “syntax sins.” These are grammar mistakes that do not always sound wrong when read aloud but create confusion on the page. One of the most overlooked offenders is the misplaced modifier.

If you have never heard this term before, do not worry. I will explain what it means, how it affects your writing, and how to fix it.

What Is a Misplaced Modifier?

Modifiers are descriptive words or phrases. They need to be placed as close as possible to the word or idea they describe. When a modifier is out of place, the sentence can take on an unintended or even ridiculous meaning.

This issue can sneak into your writing without notice. In fact, when a writer makes this mistake once, it usually appears dozens of times in the same draft.

Let me give you an example:

Incorrect: She served sandwiches to the children on paper plates.
 Correct: She served the children sandwiches on paper plates.

In the first version, the sentence makes it sound like the children were on the paper plates. A simple fix places the modifier in the right position and clears up the meaning.

Why It Matters

Misplaced modifiers confuse readers, interrupt flow, and make your writing feel less professional. More importantly, they distract editors from the deeper layers of your book. If your draft is filled with these issues, your editor will spend time correcting grammar instead of helping with higher-level storytelling elements like tone, pacing, and voice.

And you do not want to pay a chef to wash dishes.

What You Can Do

The best solution is awareness. When you revise, check for these misplaced phrases. Read your sentences aloud. If something feels off or could be misinterpreted, rewrite it. You can also bookmark this helpful guide from Blinn College that breaks down misplaced, interrupting, and dangling modifiers with clear examples:
 Misplaced Modifiers PDF – Blinn College

Your Editor Will Thank You

You do not need to be a grammar expert, but you should strive to give your editor a clean draft. That way, your team can focus on making your book stronger instead of cleaning up technical problems.

To help, we have created the Proofread Like a Pro Checklist. It includes:

  • A list of common syntax and grammar issues

  • Our submission guidelines

  • A list of dead words to delete

  • Practical self-editing tips for every author

You can find it in the Author Shop at www.crippledbeaglepublishing.com, and it works beautifully for Story Mountain Media clients as well.

If you are ready to elevate your manuscript and want hands-on help, schedule a free call with me today:
 https://calendly.com/jodydyer/free-first-consultation

Jody Dyer
Founder and CEO, Story Mountain Media