Learn Hardcore German: Die Anleitung wurde vereinfacht, damit alle sie verstehen. - The instructions were simplified so that everyone understands them.

Damit introduces a purpose clause: it means “so that / in order that.” It explains the intention behind simplifying the instructions. It also makes the clause subordinate, which affects word order (the finite verb goes to the end) and requires a comma before it.

Why is there a comma before damit?

Because damit starts a subordinate clause. In German, subordinate clauses are separated from the main clause by a comma.

Why is the verb verstehen at the end of the damit-clause?

Subordinate clauses in German place the finite verb at the end. Since damit introduces a subordinate clause, the verb verstehen goes to clause-final position: damit alle sie verstehen.

Why is the subordinate clause in the present tense (verstehen) when the main clause uses the past (wurde vereinfacht)?

In purpose clauses, German typically uses the present tense to describe a general or intended outcome that holds whenever relevant (here: whenever people read the instructions). English often uses “will” in such contexts, but German prefers the present: “so that everyone understands it.”

Could I use um … zu instead of damit?