The connecting phrases de sorte que and de façon que ("so that") have a dual nature. They can express an intended purpose or describe an actual result. The verb mood you use after them depends on which meaning you intend.
Expressing purpose (Subjunctive)
When you do something with a specific goal in mind, the outcome is an intention. Because it hasn't happened yet, use the subjunctive.
| We are coordinating the schedule so that everyone is present. | Nous coordonnons le calendrier de sorte que tout le monde soit présent. |
| They are optimizing the process so that the team can work fast. | Ils optimisent le processus de façon que l'équipe puisse travailler vite. |
Expressing a result (Indicative)
When describing a consequence that actually happened (or is definitely happening), there is no doubt. For a realized result, use the indicative.
| I coordinated the schedule, so that the project started early. | J'ai coordonné le calendrier, de sorte que le projet a commencé tôt. |
| He optimized the process, so that the team finished earlier. | Il a optimisé le processus, de sorte que l'équipe a fini plus tôt. |
Spotting the difference
To know which mood to use, ask yourself: is this an action done in order to achieve something (purpose = subjunctive), or an event that consequently caused something else (result = indicative)?
Compare an intended purpose:
| Prepare the transition so that it is very smooth. | Préparez la transition de façon qu'elle soit très fluide. |
With a realized result:
| It snowed, so that the flight is cancelled. | Il a neigé, de sorte que le vol est annulé. |
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