Connectors of Purpose: List, Examples & Exercises

Connectors of purpose (also Connectors of Result) are words and phrases we use to explain why we do something. They show the goal or intention of an action. In this guide, you will also learn common expressions used to explain how we achieve that goal (the method).

Connectors of Purpose (what we want)
Explaining how we get it (method)
Common Mistakes with Connectors of Purpose
Connectors of Purpose Exercises

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Connectors of Purpose (what we want)

These connectors explain the goal or intention of an action.

Connector	Use	Form & Punctuation	Examples
to	Express purpose (very common)	+ base verb (no comma)	I study every day to improve my English.
in order to	More formal purpose	+ base verb (comma if at the beginning)	In order to save money, she cooks at home.
so that	Focus on the result (what happens after)	+ subject + verb (comma if needed)	He left early so that he could arrive on time.
for	Express function or use	+ noun / -ing (no verb in base form)	This tool is for cutting wood.

Focus: Why are you doing this?

Explaining how we get it (method)

These expressions/words explain the method, process, or way something happens.

Connector	Use	Form & Punctuation	Examples
by	Method or action	+ verb + -ing (no comma)	She stayed fit by exercising regularly.
through	Process or experience	+ noun / -ing	He learned English through practice.
via	Channel, system, or medium (more formal)	+ noun	We contacted them via email.
by means of	Formal expression of method	+ noun / -ing (comma if at start)	He solved the issue by means of careful planning.

Focus: How did you do it?

Common Mistakes with Connectors of Purpose

Here are the most frequent problems:

1. Using “to” + -ing

Wrong:
I study hard to passing the exam.

Right:
I study hard to pass the exam.

After to, always use the base verb for purpose.

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2. Using “for” + verb

Wrong:
This app is for learn English.

Right:
This app is for learning English.
This app is to learn English.

for + noun / -ing
to + verb

3. Forgetting -ing after “by”

Wrong:
He improved by practice.

Right:
He improved by practicing.

Wrong:
I study so that I pass.

Right:
I study so that I can pass.

Note: “so that” often needs can/could/will/would

Connectors of Purpose Exercises

EXERCISE: Connectors of Purpose – Form the sentence

Join the sentences using the connector given.

Prompt: I stayed home. I needed to study. (in order to)

Answer: I stayed home in order to study.

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