You’ve asked a great question about using “so that” and “in order to.” While they both show purpose or reason, each has its own subtle use that’s good to understand for clear communication. Let’s explore the differences together!

Key Difference

• “So that” is often used to show purpose or reason, usually with a subject and verb, and can imply a future outcome.
• “In order to” also shows purpose but is more direct and formal, often with a verb right after it.

Let’s dive into each one for a clearer picture!

1. “So That”

Meaning and Use:
“So that” links two parts of a sentence to show why something happens or the intended result of an action. It’s commonly followed by a subject and verb.

Examples:

• She saved money so that she could travel next summer.
  (Why did she save money? So she could travel.)
• I’m studying hard so that I can pass the exam.
  (The reason for studying hard is to pass the exam.)

Note: In some cases, “so that” suggests that the action is taken to achieve a future goal or outcome.

Usage Tip: Think of “so that” as providing a reason or purpose that involves someone doing something in the future.

2. “In Order To”

Meaning and Use:
“In order to” is a bit more formal and is used to express purpose or intention. It’s directly followed by a verb (infinitive form) and doesn’t include a separate subject or action.

Examples:

• She saved money in order to travel next summer.
  (Direct purpose: The action of saving was specifically for travel.)
• I’m studying hard in order to pass the exam.
  (The studying has a clear purpose: passing the exam.)

Note: “In order to” is interchangeable with “to” in many cases, but using the full “in order to” adds a bit more emphasis on purpose.

Usage Tip: Use “in order to” when you want to clearly point to the goal or intention of an action. It sounds a bit more formal than just “to.”

Comparing “So That” and “In Order To”

Practice Time! 🎯

Try these exercises to check your understanding:

1. Complete the sentence:
   • He left work early __________ he could catch the bus.
2. Choose the correct form:
   • They are planting trees __________ reduce pollution.

Answers:

1. so that he could catch the bus
2. in order to reduce pollution

Pro Tip 🌟

A simple way to remember:

• Use “so that” when you have a subject and verb in both parts of the sentence.
• Use “in order to” when you’re introducing a purpose with just a verb.