The phrase “so as to” often trips up IELTS test-takers, but mastering it can add a touch of sophistication to your writing and potentially boost your score. Let’s unravel how to use this phrase effectively in various sections of your IELTS exam.
Here are some examples of how “so as to” can be used in different sections of the IELTS exam:
Speaking Part 2: “…and we decided to wake up early the next morning so as to catch the sunrise over the mountains. It was truly breathtaking.”
Writing Task 1: “As shown in the graph, the consumption of sugary drinks increased steadily from 2010 to 2015, possibly so as to keep pace with the rising demand for convenience foods.”
Writing Task 2: “Governments should invest in public transportation so as to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality in urban areas.”
In each of these examples, “so as to” effectively conveys the purpose or intention behind an action. Now, let’s break down the grammar to see how it works.
Understanding “So as to”
“So as to” is a conjunction used to express purpose. Essentially, it means “in order to” or “for the purpose of.” While it might seem interchangeable with “to,” using “so as to” can often make your writing sound more formal and academic, which is desirable in the IELTS exam.
Using “So as to” Correctly
Here’s the basic formula for using “so as to” :
Subject + Verb + so as to + Verb (base form)
Let’s look at how this structure plays out in different parts of the IELTS exam:
Writing
Task 1 (Describing Trends):
“The price of oil decreased sharply in 2015, so as to reach a ten-year low.”
Here, “so as to reach” clarifies the purpose behind the oil price decrease.
Task 2 (Expressing Opinions & Providing Reasons):
“Governments should provide free education so as to ensure equal opportunities for all citizens.”
“So as to ensure” effectively links the government’s action (providing free education) with its intended outcome (equal opportunities).
Speaking
Part 1 (Short Answers):
“I joined the gym so as to improve my fitness.”
“So as to improve” succinctly explains your reason for joining the gym.
Part 3 (Discussion):
“Some people choose to live in the countryside so as to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.”
Using “so as to escape” adds a degree of formality to your response, suitable for the discursive nature of Part 3.
Mastering Alternatives for Higher Band Scores
While “so as to” is grammatically correct, diversifying your language can impress examiners. Consider these alternatives:
- In order to: “The company invested heavily in research and development in order to stay ahead of its competitors.”
- So that: “I left the party early so that I could catch the last train.” (Note: “so that” often implies a desired outcome rather than just a purpose).
- With the aim of: “The government implemented new policies with the aim of boosting the economy.”
- For the purpose of: “The data was collected for the purpose of analyzing consumer behavior.”
You can find more information about expressing purpose here.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
-
Incorrect Verb Form: Always use the base form of the verb after “so as to.”
Incorrect: He studied hard so as to getting a good grade.
Correct: He studied hard so as to get a good grade. -
Redundancy: Avoid using “so as to” when a simpler “to” would suffice.
Redundant: I went to the store so as to buy some milk.
Concise: I went to the store to buy some milk.
Conclusion
Mastering “so as to” can enhance the clarity and sophistication of your IELTS writing and speaking responses. Remember to use it judiciously, paying close attention to verb forms and avoiding redundancy. Don’t be afraid to explore its synonyms as well! For further practice, try incorporating “so as to” and its alternatives into your IELTS writing tasks and speaking practice sessions.