“So that…”

Result or consequence

When it expresses a result or consequence, it can be followed by a clause without modal verbs.

• The door was left ajar so that the cat walked right in. (result)
• The agreement was structured so that each party received fair compensation. (factual outcome)
• He explained it simply so that everyone understood the concept. (result of his explanation)

Purpose or possibility

When it expresses a specific intended purpose (why something is done) or possibility, it is mostly followed by a clause with modal verbs.

• She studied hard so that she could pass the exam. (intended purpose/possibility)
• He spoke quietly so that he wouldn’t disturb the others. (intended purpose/avoidance)

Summary

Meaning	Modals
Result	with or without
Purpose	mostly with