Explanation:
By looking over each option quickly, we can see that the main difference here has to do with
where the modifying phrase “a time when people make New Year’s resolutions” is placed. We know this phrase is referring to the month of January, so it’s important to make sure the modifier sits right next to it. This should help you easily rule out options B, C, and E.
Now we’re left with options A and D. Both of them have the modifying phrase in the right place, but they’re worded a bit differently. We also know that modifying phrases are supposed to be just that – phrases. They aren’t supposed to be complete sentences. In option D, the modifying phrase was tweaked to be a complete sentence, which now makes it the wrong option. It also creates a comma splice because there needs to be a bigger break between “January” and “it,” like a semicolon or period.
After ruling out modifying phrases in the wrong place, and anything that isn’t a phrase, we are left with the correct answer – A!
For more details, here is what’s wrong about each option:
A is correct because the modifying phrase is in the correct place, and the punctuation works.B is wrong because the modifying phrase is in the wrong place. It’s now being used to modify “gym members,” which doesn’t work.
C is wrong because the modifying phrase is in the wrong place, making it unclear when gym members make New Year’s resolutions! Do they do it in January, or do they do it earlier, then sign up for memberships in January? Do they do both at the same time? It’s not clear.
D is wrong because the modifying phrase was turned into a complete sentence. The punctuation after “January” needs to reflect this change. It should be a semicolon or period, not a comma.
E is wrong for the same reason C is wrong – it’s just reworded to be confusing to the reader.
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