How to use 'so that' and 'so as'

Many students find it difficult to use 'so that' and 'so as'. In this post, I would like to show readers how to use them correctly.

1 'so that' is followed by a clause

Example 1:

You must study hard so that you can pass the exam with flying colours.

Example 2:

The fat lady needs to exercise so that she can remain slim all the while.

Example 3:

The teacher speaks slowly and clearly so that her students will be able to understand her lessons.

[A clause consists of a subject and a finite verb.]

2 ‘so as’ is followed by an infinitive.

Example 1:

John works hard so as to earn a lot of money.

Example 2:

She copied the text carefully so as not to make a single mistake.

Example 3:

He studies hard so as to pass his exam with high grades.