In both formal and informal writing, it’s common to find additional thoughts added at the end of a letter or message. These are often introduced with the letters P.S., which stand for postscript. While many people use postscripts casually, especially in handwritten notes or emails, the meaning and use of a postscript have deeper roots in writing conventions. To understand what postscript means and how to use it properly, it’s helpful to explore its origin, function, and place in modern communication.
Definition of Postscript
The wordpostscriptcomes from the Latin phrasepost scriptum, meaning written after. In its simplest form, a postscript is an additional remark or message added at the end of a letter after the signature. It allows the writer to include a thought or piece of information that was not included in the main body of the text.
Common Usage
In most cases, a postscript appears as:
P.S.Don’t forget to bring your umbrella tomorrow!
It’s typically used to include something the writer forgot to mention or wants to emphasize one more time. It adds a personal or casual touch and can be used for humor, emphasis, or final reminders.
The Origin and History of Postscript
The use of postscripts dates back centuries, originating in an era when letters were handwritten or typed on typewriters. Since revising a letter was time-consuming or impractical, writers would simply add a new note at the end. This made the postscript a useful and natural way to include extra information.
Postscript in Historical Context
- Ancient Letters: In early handwritten communication, postscripts were essential when a scribe wanted to add something after the main content was completed.
- Typewriter Era: Since editing was difficult, postscripts offered a solution for adding forgotten points.
- Digital Age: Today, while editing is easy, postscripts remain popular for their stylistic effect.
Despite technological advances, the postscript has survived because of its ability to capture attention and communicate a tone that is often friendlier or more informal than the rest of the message.
How to Use a Postscript
Understanding what postscript means also involves knowing how and when to use it. Though typically brief, a postscript can vary in length and purpose depending on the context of the message.
When to Use a Postscript
- To add a casual or humorous comment
- To include an important reminder
- To provide an afterthought without reworking the original message
- To create emphasis on a particular point
In marketing emails, for example, a postscript is often used to highlight a call to action or a promotional message, since it naturally draws the reader’s eye.
Formatting Tips
When writing a postscript:
- Start with P.S. followed by your message
- Place it after your closing and signature
- If more additions are needed, use P.P.S. for a second postscript, and P.P.P.S. for a third, and so on
Example:
Best regards,
Anna
P.S.I’ll send you the final report tomorrow morning.
P.P.S.Don’t forget to confirm the meeting with James.
Postscript in Different Forms of Communication
Today, postscripts are not just limited to handwritten letters or emails. They appear in various forms of writing and even in digital content. Understanding where and how to use a postscript can enhance your communication skills in multiple areas.
In Personal Letters
Postscripts in personal letters add warmth and spontaneity. They may include a personal note, joke, or an affectionate message that wasn’t part of the main letter.
In Business Letters
While business writing tends to be more formal, a postscript can still be used for an extra reminder or call to action, especially in sales or customer engagement letters.
In Marketing and Copywriting
Marketers often use postscripts to restate a key message or offer at the end of an email. Because many readers scan messages quickly, a well-placed P.S. can reinforce the main idea and improve response rates.
Psychological Impact of a Postscript
One reason postscripts remain effective in modern writing is their ability to catch the reader’s attention. Readers tend to notice and remember the first and last parts of a message a concept known as the serial position effect.
Benefits of Using a Postscript
- Draws attention: Postscripts often stand out visually
- Emphasizes key messages: Reinforces what’s most important
- Adds personality: Makes communication feel more personal or spontaneous
For these reasons, postscripts are frequently used in persuasive writing, such as direct mail and email marketing, where capturing attention quickly is essential.
Common Mistakes When Using Postscripts
Although postscripts are useful, they should not be overused or misapplied. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Using a postscript to add critical content: Essential information should be in the main body of your message, not an afterthought.
- Overloading with multiple P.S. entries: Too many postscripts can confuse or annoy readers.
- Lack of clarity: Make sure the postscript is concise and directly related to the message.
When used wisely, a postscript enhances the message. When misused, it can weaken your communication or appear unprofessional.
Modern Variations of the Postscript
While P.S. remains the most recognized form, there are modern alternatives in digital communication. Social media posts, blog comments, and even text messages may include similar afterthoughts, though not always labeled as postscripts.
Examples of Modern Equivalents
- A follow-up comment after a social media post
- An additional line in a WhatsApp message starting with By the way
- Footnotes or editor’s notes in blogs and newsletters
These modern tools serve the same function as a traditional postscript: to insert something that didn’t fit into the main content or to add a personal voice.
So, what does postscript mean? At its core, it’s a simple yet effective tool to add extra thoughts after the main part of a message. Whether used in handwritten letters, professional emails, or marketing content, a postscript can capture attention, reinforce messages, and add a human touch to communication. Though technology has changed how we write, the P.S. remains a lasting feature of written expression. Learning how to use it properly helps ensure your messages are not only complete but also memorable and impactful.