Use and to add information, but to show contrast, or to present an alternative, so to introduce a result, and because to give a reason, as in she was tired, so she went to bed or he stayed home because he was sick. Because gives the cause and so gives the result, so they should never be confused.
Grammar Rule
Connectors join ideas and show the logical relationship between them.
Connectors and Conjunctions: Rules and Examples
| Connector | Function | Example |
|---|---|---|
| and | adds information | I like tea and coffee. |
| but | shows contrast | She likes him, but he doesn’t like her. |
| or | presents an alternative | Do you want tea or coffee? |
| so | introduces a result | She was tired, so she went to bed. |
| because | gives a reason | He stayed home because he was sick. |
| although | contrast (can start the sentence) | Although it was raining, we went out. |
Remember: because gives the cause, so gives the result — don’t confuse them or reverse the order.
Practice Test
Instructions
Answer each question in the test below choosing the correct connector. You will get a new random set of questions every time you retake the test, plus a downloadable results summary with your name and score at the end.
Connectors and Conjunctions – And, But, Or, So, Because, Although
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the function of so as a connector?
So introduces a result, as in she was tired, so she went to bed.
What is the function of because as a connector?
Because gives a reason or cause, as in he stayed home because he was sick.
Can although start a sentence?
Yes, although can start a sentence to show contrast, as in although it was raining, we went out.
What is a common mistake with because and so?
A common mistake is confusing or reversing them, using because where the result should go or so where the reason should go.