Master "In Order That" and "So That": Complete English Grammar Guide

Master "In Order That" and "So That"

Complete English Grammar Guide with Examples and Practice

Introduction: Why These Phrases Matter

Learning to use "in order that" and "so that" correctly is essential for expressing purpose and intention in English. These phrases help you explain why something happens or why someone does something. They make your English sound more natural and sophisticated.

Many English learners struggle with these expressions because they seem similar but have subtle differences. This comprehensive guide will help you understand when and how to use each phrase correctly, with plenty of examples and practice exercises.

By the end of this lesson, you will confidently use both phrases in speaking and writing, making your English communication clearer and more effective.

Understanding "So That"

"So that" is the most common way to express purpose in English. It connects two parts of a sentence, showing that the first action is done to achieve the second result.

Basic Structure

The basic pattern is: Main clause + so that + purpose clause

Simple Examples:

I study hard so that I can pass my exams.

She speaks slowly so that everyone can understand.

We left early so that we wouldn't be late.

Modal Verbs with "So That"

After "so that," we often use modal verbs like can, could, will, would, may, might, or won't. These modals help express the purpose more clearly.

Examples with Modal Verbs:

I'm saving money so that I can buy a new car.

He whispered so that others wouldn't hear him.

They built a fence so that their dog couldn't escape.

💡 Pro Tip

In informal speech, many people drop "that" and just say "so." For example: "I'm leaving early so I won't be late." Both forms are correct, but "so that" is more formal and clearer.

Understanding "In Order That"

"In order that" has the same meaning as "so that" but sounds more formal and is used less frequently in everyday conversation. It's more common in academic writing, legal documents, and formal speeches.

Formal Structure

The pattern is: Main clause + in order that + purpose clause

Formal Examples:

The company implemented new policies in order that employees could work more efficiently.

The government passed this law in order that citizens might feel safer.

We scheduled the meeting early in order that everyone could attend.

Academic and Professional Usage

"In order that" is particularly useful in academic writing, business reports, and formal presentations. It adds a professional tone to your communication.

Professional Examples:

The research was conducted in order that scientists could better understand the phenomenon.

New safety measures were introduced in order that accidents could be prevented.

The system was upgraded in order that users would have a better experience.

Key Differences Between "So That" and "In Order That"

1. Formality Level

The main difference is formality. "So that" is used in both casual and formal situations, while "in order that" is primarily formal.

Casual vs. Formal:

Casual: I'm cooking dinner early so that we can watch the movie.

Formal: The meeting was scheduled early in order that all participants could attend.

2. Frequency of Use

"So that" is much more common in everyday English. Native speakers use it constantly in conversation, while "in order that" appears mainly in writing and formal speech.

3. Context Appropriateness

Choose "so that" for everyday conversations, emails to friends, and informal writing. Use "in order that" for academic papers, business reports, legal documents, and formal presentations.

🎯 Quick Decision Guide

Use "so that" when: Speaking casually, writing emails, texting, or in most everyday situations.

Use "in order that" when: Writing academic papers, business reports, giving formal presentations, or in legal contexts.

Common Grammar Patterns

Tense Combinations

The tense in the main clause often determines what modal verb or tense to use after "so that" or "in order that."

Present Main Clause:

I exercise regularly so that I can stay healthy.

She studies hard so that she will get good grades.

Past Main Clause:

I exercised regularly so that I could stay healthy.

She studied hard so that she would get good grades.

Negative Purposes

Both phrases can express negative purposes using "won't," "wouldn't," "can't," or "couldn't."

Negative Examples:

I locked the door so that nobody could enter.

We spoke quietly in order that we wouldn't wake the baby.

Alternative Expressions

There are other ways to express purpose in English. Learning these alternatives will make your English more varied and interesting.

Using "In Order To"

"In order to" + infinitive is another formal way to express purpose, but it can only be used when the subject is the same in both clauses.

Comparison:

I study hard so that I can pass. (two subjects: I, I)

I study hard in order to pass. (same subject: I)

I study hard so that my parents will be proud. (different subjects: I, parents)

Using "To" + Infinitive

The simple infinitive "to" can express purpose in casual speech when the meaning is clear.

Simple Purpose:

I went to the store to buy milk.

She called to ask about the job.

Using "For" + Noun/Gerund

"For" can also express purpose when followed by a noun or gerund.

With "For":

I went to the gym for exercise.

She bought flowers for decorating the room.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Wrong Modal Verb Choice

Don't use "will" or "shall" after "so that" when the main clause is in the past tense.

Incorrect vs. Correct:

❌ I studied hard so that I will pass the exam.

✅ I studied hard so that I would pass the exam.

2. Mixing Formal and Informal Styles

Don't use "in order that" in casual conversation or "so that" in very formal academic writing.

3. Forgetting the Modal Verb

After "so that" and "in order that," you usually need a modal verb, not just a simple present or past tense.

Incorrect vs. Correct:

❌ I'm saving money so that I buy a car.

✅ I'm saving money so that I can buy a car.

⚠️ Remember

The purpose clause (after "so that" or "in order that") usually contains a modal verb like can, could, will, would, may, might, won't, or wouldn't.

Practice Exercises

Exercise 1: Choose the Correct Option

Click the button to see if you chose correctly:

1. I'm learning English _____ I can get a better job.

Both are correct! "So that" is more common in everyday speech, while "in order that" is more formal. For this casual example, "so that" would be the natural choice.

2. The new policy was implemented _____ employees could work more efficiently.

Both are correct! However, "in order that" fits better in this formal, business context. It sounds more professional and appropriate for policy discussions.

Exercise 2: Complete the Sentences

Think about what modal verb fits best, then click to see the answer:

1. She whispered so that others _____ hear her secret.

Answer: wouldn't
"She whispered so that others wouldn't hear her secret." We use "wouldn't" because it's a negative purpose in the past context.

2. I'm saving money so that I _____ buy a new laptop.

Answer: can
"I'm saving money so that I can buy a new laptop." We use "can" because it's a present ability/possibility.

Real-World Applications

In Business Communication

These phrases are essential in professional settings for explaining strategies, policies, and decisions.

Business Examples:

We're implementing flexible hours so that employees can maintain work-life balance.

The new system was designed in order that customers could access services more easily.

In Academic Writing

Academic papers frequently use these expressions to explain research purposes and methodologies.

Academic Examples:

The experiment was conducted in order that researchers could test the hypothesis.

Multiple data sources were used so that the results would be more reliable.

In Daily Conversation

Use these phrases to explain your actions and intentions in everyday situations.

Daily Examples:

I'm leaving early so that I won't miss the train.

Let's meet at the café so that we can talk privately.

Advanced Usage Tips

Emphasis and Clarity

Sometimes you can emphasize purpose by using both "in order" and "so that" together, though this is quite formal.

Emphatic Form:

The rules were changed in order to ensure that students could learn more effectively.

Avoiding Repetition

In longer texts, vary your expressions of purpose to avoid repetition and make your writing more interesting.

🔄 Variation Strategy

Instead of using "so that" repeatedly, alternate with "in order that," "to," "for," and other purpose expressions to keep your writing engaging.

Cultural Considerations

Different English-speaking countries may have slight preferences. American English tends to favor "so that," while British English uses both forms more equally in formal writing.

Summary and Key Takeaways

Mastering "so that" and "in order that" will significantly improve your English communication skills. Here are the essential points to remember:

🎯 Key Points

1. Meaning: Both phrases express purpose - why something is done.

2. Formality: "So that" is casual and common; "in order that" is formal and less frequent.

3. Structure: Both are followed by a clause with a modal verb (can, could, will, would, etc.).

4. Usage: Choose based on your audience and context - casual vs. formal.

5. Alternatives: You can also use "to," "in order to," and "for" to express purpose.

Practice Recommendations

To master these phrases, practice using them in different contexts. Start with "so that" in casual conversations, then gradually incorporate "in order that" in more formal situations like presentations or academic writing.

Pay attention to how native speakers use these phrases in movies, podcasts, and books. Notice the contexts where each phrase appears, and try to use them in similar situations.

Final Thoughts

Remember that language learning is a gradual process. Don't worry if you don't get it perfect immediately. With consistent practice and attention to context, you'll naturally develop a feel for when to use each phrase appropriately.

These expressions will make your English sound more natural and help you communicate your intentions clearly. Whether you're writing an email, giving a presentation, or having a casual conversation, you now have the tools to express purpose effectively in English.