In Order To and So As To: Grammar Rules and Examples

In Order To and So As To are common grammar structures used to express purpose in English. This guide explains their meanings, grammar rules, and main differences, provides equivalent structures and real-life examples, and offers practical exercises to help learners master usage.

I. What Are In Order To and So As To?

In order to and so as to are two formal structures commonly used in English to express purpose — they explain why someone does something or what the goal of an action is. These phrases are typically followed by a verb in the bare infinitive form (the base form of the verb without “to”).

They are especially useful in academic writing, formal speech, and professional communication, where clarity and tone are essential. Compared to the more casual "to + verb", both in order to and so as to sound more precise and polished.

Both expressions mean "with the purpose of" or "in order that something can happen".

• I study every day in order to pass the exam.

• She left early so as to catch the train.

In both examples, the phrases introduce the reason or goal behind the action.

Mastering these structures is particularly important for learners preparing for English tests such as IELTS, TOEIC, or formal writing tasks. They not only improve grammatical accuracy but also enhance the sophistication of sentence structure — a key expectation in higher-level English proficiency.

• See also So that and Such that for purpose clauses

1. Grammar Rules of In Order To and So As To

Both in order to and so as to are followed by the bare infinitive (the base form of the verb without “to”) and are used to express purpose. While they are nearly interchangeable in meaning, they follow specific grammar patterns and differ slightly in formality.

General Structure

Both structures are mostly used in affirmative purposeful statements. Preferred in formal writing instead of using just “to + verb”. For formal cohesion when explaining reasons, review therefore in English.

Negative Forms

The negative forms are slightly different in their placement and usage.

Avoid placing "not" after the verb (e.g. "in order to not be late") in formal writing — it's grammatically acceptable but considered less formal. 

For expectation/obligation nuances, check be supposed to in English.

Formality and Style

Tip for learners:

• Use in order to in writing tasks such as essays, business emails, or official reports.
• Reserve so as to for very formal writing or when variation is needed to avoid repetition.

2. Differences Between In Order To and So As To

Although in order to and so as to express the same general meaning — purpose — they differ in formality, frequency, and usage context. Understanding these differences will help learners choose the correct structure, especially when writing academic texts or taking language exams.

Similarities

• Both are used to introduce the purpose of an action.
• Both are followed by the base form (infinitive) of a verb.
• Both tend to appear in written English, especially in formal or semi-formal contexts.

Examples:

• She exercises regularly in order to stay healthy.
• She exercises regularly so as to stay healthy.

These sentences are grammatically correct and express the same meaning.

Key Differences

Tip for learners: "In order to" is generally preferred in formal or professional texts, while "so as to" tends to appear in academic or legal writing. In casual or everyday conversation, most native speakers would simply use "to + verb."

3. Some equivalent structures to In order to and So as to

Besides in order to and so as to, English offers several other ways to express purpose. Depending on the context and the level of formality, different structures can be used. Understanding these alternatives helps learners write with more variety and confidence in both formal and informal settings.

Using a variety of purpose-based structures makes your writing more natural and nuanced. While in order to and so as to are important, mastering these equivalent forms allows you to adapt your tone effectively depending on formality and context.

II. Examples of In Order To and So As To in Sentences

The best way to fully understand how to use in order to and so as to is to see them in real sentences. Below are examples from different contexts to show just how these phrases function — from everyday conversation to academic writing and complex sentence structures.

Everyday English Examples

These examples reflect how you might hear or use these expressions in daily life. While in order to is more common here, so as to is accepted in formal dialogues.

• I left work early in order to catch the bus.
• She takes notes during class so as to remember everything later.
• He turned down the volume in order to let his roommate sleep.
• We exercise daily so as to stay healthy and focused.

Tip: In casual contexts, native speakers often simplify these to "to + verb."

Academic and Formal Contexts

These sentences demonstrate use in essays, reports, instructions, or formal email communication.

• The study was conducted in order to determine the effectiveness of the new method.
• New regulations were passed so as to improve workplace safety.
• Applicants must submit documents in order to complete the registration process.
• The team reduced their budget so as to focus resources on high-priority objectives.

Notice how “so as to” sounds slightly more sophisticated, often used for variation in formal writing or to avoid repetition.

Negative and Complex Sentences

Below are examples that show negative forms or more advanced sentence structures using in order not to and so as not to.

• He spoke quietly in order not to wake the child.
• The data was anonymized so as not to reveal patient identities.
• She set multiple alarms in order not to miss the flight.
• The instructions were simplified so as not to confuse beginners.

Note: Both negative forms place "not" between the phrase and the verb: “in order not to + verb” / “so as not to + verb”.

III. Exercises and Practice with In Order To and So As To

To help you reinforce what you've learned about in order to and so as to, the following practice activities are designed to check your understanding of structure, usage, and formality. They range from basic grammar exercises to controlled writing tasks, and are ideal for classroom use or self-study.

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

Complete each sentence with either in order to or so as to.

1. She slowed down __________ check her phone safely.
2. We’re leaving earlier __________ avoid the traffic jam.
3. The factory improved its ventilation system __________ reduce health risks.
4. He studies every night __________ pass the entrance exam.
5. They turned off the lights __________ save electricity.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct option

Underline the more suitable phrase based on the context and formality level.

1. The document was revised (in order to / so as to) meet legal standards.
2. I'm exercising regularly (in order to / so as to) stay fit — nothing too formal.
3. We spoke softly (so as to / in order to) not disturb the other guests.
4. He submitted the form online (in order to / so as to) save time.
5. The new policy was introduced (so as to / in order to) ensure fair access.

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentence

Rewrite each sentence using in order to or so as to.

1. She wears a helmet. She wants to protect her head.
   ⟶ __________________________________________________
2. I left home early. I didn't want to miss my appointment.
   ⟶ __________________________________________________
3. They hired more staff. They wanted to improve customer service.
   ⟶ __________________________________________________

Answer

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