I wrote the address clearly describes the action; so that the courier could read it gives its purpose. The person doing the action and the person benefiting can differ.
The idea
Use so that + subject + verb, often with can/could or will/would. A present-simple clause is also possible: so that the water stays hot. Informally, that is often omitted.
Examples
- I wrote the address clearly so that the courier could read it.
- Put the lid on the pot so that the water stays hot.
- We moved the lamp so that Mina can see the stitching.
- I'll send a diagram so that you won't need to guess.
- Lea lowered the shelf so that the children could reach the books.
- I saved a copy so I wouldn't lose the changes.
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Watch out
A purpose is an intention, not proof that it succeeded. So that can also introduce a result in other contexts. Do not replace it with bare to before an explicit subject: not to visitors could follow.
Try it yourself
Choose the correct option. We added captions ___ visitors could follow the video. (so that / to)
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so that
Visitors could follow the video has its own subject and verb. Introduce this purpose clause with so that.
Choose the correct option. I saved a copy so that I ___ lose the changes. (wouldn't / didn't to)
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wouldn't
Wouldn't lose expresses the unwanted outcome the saved copy was intended to prevent. Didn't to lose is not a valid verb pattern.
Choose the correct option. Put the lid on so that the water ___ hot. (stays / stay)
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stays
Present-simple stays agrees with singular the water. A modal is not required in this purpose clause.
Practice round
Answer questions and rebuild English sentences to practise. Your score is shown.
Choose the correct option. We added captions ___ visitors could follow the video. (so that / to)
Choose the correct option. I saved a copy so that I ___ lose the changes. (wouldn't / didn't to)
Choose the correct option. Put the lid on so that the water ___ hot. (stays / stay)
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Explain two practical changes: one to help someone else and one to avoid a problem yourself. Name each purpose's subject and check whether you are describing an aim or a confirmed result.