The “so… as to” structure is a sophisticated grammatical construction that can significantly enhance your IELTS performance. This structure is used to express purpose or intention, and it’s particularly useful in the Writing and Speaking sections of the IELTS exam. Let’s delve into its usage, importance, and how to incorporate it effectively in your IELTS responses.

IELTS Exam Preparation

Understanding the “So… as to” Structure

The “so… as to” structure is used to express purpose or intention in a more formal and sophisticated manner than using “to” or “in order to”. It’s particularly useful in academic and professional contexts, making it an excellent choice for IELTS candidates aiming for higher band scores.

Formula and Grammar Rules

The basic formula for this structure is:

[Subject] + [Verb] + so + [Adjective/Adverb] + as to + [Verb (base form)]

For example:

• The government invested heavily so as to stimulate economic growth.
• She spoke clearly so as to ensure everyone understood her point.

In these examples, the structure expresses the purpose of the action in the main clause.

Using “So… as to” in IELTS Writing

Incorporating this structure in your IELTS Writing task can demonstrate a high level of grammatical control and sophistication. Here are some examples of how you might use it in different types of essays:

1. In an advantages/disadvantages essay:
   “Modern cities are designed so as to accommodate a large number of vehicles, often at the expense of pedestrian-friendly spaces.”

2. In a problem/solution essay:
   “Governments are implementing stricter regulations so as to curb the rising levels of pollution in urban areas.”

3. In an opinion essay:
   “I believe that educational institutions should diversify their curricula so as to prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century job market.”

Sample Paragraph Using “So… as to”

Here’s a sample paragraph that effectively uses the “so… as to” structure:

“In recent years, many countries have been investing heavily in renewable energy sources so as to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels. Governments are implementing policies so as to encourage both businesses and individuals to adopt cleaner energy alternatives. For instance, some nations offer tax incentives so as to make solar panel installation more affordable for homeowners. These measures are designed so as to accelerate the transition to a more sustainable energy future.”

Incorporating “So… as to” in IELTS Speaking

Using the “so… as to” structure in your IELTS Speaking responses can demonstrate your command of advanced grammatical structures. Here are some examples:

1. When discussing your studies:
   “I’m taking extra English classes so as to improve my chances of getting a high score on the IELTS test.”

2. When talking about career goals:
   “I’m planning to gain work experience abroad so as to enhance my cross-cultural communication skills.”

3. When describing a personal achievement:
   “I started a blog so as to share my travel experiences with a wider audience.”

Achieving Higher Band Scores with “So… as to”

Using the “so… as to” structure correctly can contribute to achieving higher band scores in both Writing and Speaking. Here’s how it aligns with the IELTS assessment criteria:

• For Band 7: Candidates should show “frequent use of less common and more sophisticated vocabulary and structures.”
• For Band 8: The use of language should demonstrate “full flexibility and precise use.”

Compare these sentences:

Band 6: “I study English to improve my job prospects.”
Band 8: “I dedicate considerable time to studying English so as to enhance my career prospects in the global job market.”

The latter sentence not only uses the “so… as to” structure but also incorporates more sophisticated vocabulary, demonstrating a higher level of language proficiency.

IELTS Band Scores

Common Mistakes When Using “So… as to”

While “so… as to” can elevate your language, it’s crucial to avoid common mistakes:

1. Incorrect word order:
   Incorrect: “She spoke so as clearly to be understood.”
   Correct: “She spoke so clearly as to be understood by everyone.”

2. Using it with a noun instead of a verb:
   Incorrect: “He studied hard so as to success.”
   Correct: “He studied hard so as to succeed in his exams.”

3. Overusing the structure:
   While it’s a sophisticated structure, overusing it can make your speech or writing sound unnatural. Use it sparingly and effectively.

Conclusion

Mastering the “so… as to” structure can significantly enhance your IELTS performance, particularly in Writing and Speaking. By incorporating this advanced grammatical construction, you demonstrate a high level of language proficiency, which is crucial for achieving higher band scores. Remember to practice using this structure in various contexts and to balance it with other advanced language features. As you prepare for your IELTS exam, consider creating sentences and paragraphs that utilize this structure, focusing on topics commonly found in IELTS tests such as education, environment, technology, and social issues.