In order to eat ice cream I need to stop typing. :P

I think they are just the same and both express prerequisites... I've got to get home early to catch my favorite tv show. I've got to get home early in order to catch my favorite tv show. do you think 'in order' is no longer necessary? I think the 2nd sentence is pretty classy and formal. however, should you desire to start your sentence with "in order to", that's perfectly fine. "in order (for you) to get promoted, you should work really hard." :)

they mean the same to show purpose i work hard to earn my living. i work hard in order to earn my living.