Conjunction ( 'So that' )

[Barman]

I know that the conjunction 'so that' is followed generally by 'may' or 'might'.

For example:
a) I give you this advice so that you may succeed.

b) He encouraged me so that I might not lose heart.

Can I use 'can' or 'could' after 'so that' instead of 'may' or 'might' in the above-mentioned sentences respectively?

 

[probus]

You can substitute can in a) but using could in b) is unnatural and, even if it is acceptable, changes the meaning.

 

[Charlie Bernstein]

You can use it with would, will, and shall, too.

 

[Barman]

You can substitute can in a) but using could in b) is unnatural and, even if it is acceptable, changes the meaning.

You can use it with would, will, and shall, too.

Respected probus and Charlie Bernstein,

In the grammar book named "A text-book of higher English grammar, composition and translation" authored by P.K. De Sarkar, the author wrote that "in order that, so that, etc. are followed generally by may,might, in some context, by shall and should, but never by can or could, or will or would".

Please advise me whether this quotation is correct or not.

 

[Charlie Bernstein]

Respected probus and Charlie Bernstein,

In the grammar book named "A text-book of higher English grammar, composition and translation" authored by P.K. De Sarkar, the author wrote that "in order that, so that, etc. are followed generally by may,might, in some context, by shall and should, but never by can or could, or will or would".

Please advise me whether this quotation is correct or not.

English wasn't De Sarkar's first language. I'm sure his English was good, but the rules you're quoting seem arbitrary and limiting.

 

[emsr2d2]

Respected probus and Charlie Bernstein,

In the grammar book named "A text-book of higher English grammar, composition and translation" authored by P.K. De Sarkar, the author wrote that "in order that, so that, etc. are followed generally by may,might, in some context, by shall and should, but never by can or could, or will or would".

Please advise me whether this quotation is correct or not.

That's simply not true.

I prepared the food in advance so that I could enjoy a more relaxed evening.
We're buying a bigger car so that we can fit more stuff in the back.
Do your homework now so that you'll (you will) have time to watch a film later.
I did my homework straight after school so that I would have time to watch a film later.