Consequence and purpose (de modo que / de forma que)

Shaping Sentences: De modo que

When working with precious metals, every action has a result. You can connect an action to its outcome using the phrase de modo que (so that / in such a way that).

The verb mood changes depending on whether the outcome is a consequence or a purpose. If the outcome is an established fact, use the indicative mood.

The goldsmith polished the metal, so the gold shone.
O ourives poliu o metal, de modo que o ouro brilhou.

However, if the outcome is merely the intended purpose of the action—a goal rather than a guaranteed fact—use the subjunctive mood.

The goldsmith needs the tweezers so that he can set the diamond.
O ourives precisa da pinça, de modo que possa cravar o diamante.

De forma que

The phrase de forma que (so that / in a way that) is interchangeable with de modo que and follows the exact same rules.

When describing a factual consequence, stick to the indicative mood.

The jewelry store closed, so the goldsmith did not melt the gold.
A joalharia fechou, de forma que o ourives não fundiu o ouro.

When expressing a goal, intention, or warning—especially after giving an instruction—use the subjunctive mood.

Clean the gold before polishing it, so that it shines.
Limpa o ouro antes de o polir, de forma que brilhe.
Melt it slowly, so that you do not burn yourself.
Funde-o devagar, de modo que não te queimes.