B2 FIRST · GRAMMAR · PART 4

Purpose: so that, in order to, in case

To, in order to, so as not to, so that and in case – how to say why you do something.

Finn the puffin with glasses and a book, your grammar teacher

Finn says

Explaining why we do things is part of every essay and every Speaking discussion. Here are the patterns – and the one that people always confuse: in case.

Saying why

to / in order to

+ infinitive

I went to the shop to buy some milk.

so as not to / in order not to

negative purpose

We whispered so as not to wake the baby.

so that

+ subject + can / could / would

I left early so that I could catch the train.

for + -ing / noun

the purpose of a thing

This knife is for cutting bread.

In case

'In case' means 'because it's possible that' – it is NOT the same as 'if'.

in case + present

a precaution for the future

Take an umbrella in case it rains.

in case + past

a precaution in the past

I took an umbrella in case it rained.

if vs in case

if = only when it happens; in case = before, just in case

I'll buy bread if we need it. / I'll buy bread in case we need it.

How it comes up in Part 4

In Part 4 you complete the second sentence with the key word, so that it means the same as the first one (2–5 words).

I spoke quietly because I didn't want to wake anyone.
AS
I spoke quietly so as not to wake anyone.

Negative purpose → so as not to.

Take a map because you might get lost.
CASE
Take a map in case you get lost.

A precaution → in case + present.

She saved money because she wanted to buy a car.
THAT
She saved money so that she could buy a car.

So that + subject + could.

Common mistakes

✗ I came here for learn English.✓ I came here to learn English.Purpose of a person's action → to + infinitive, not for.
✗ Take a coat in case it will be cold.✓ Take a coat in case it is cold.No will after in case.
✗ I studied hard for not failing.✓ I studied hard so as not to fail / so that I wouldn't fail.Negative purpose → so as not to / so that … not.

Finn's exam tip

If the first sentence says 'because it's possible that' or 'might', think in case. If it says 'didn't want to', think so as not to or so that … wouldn't.

Quick check

Complete the second sentence so that it means the same as the first. Use the key word and write 2–5 words.

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