When you see P.S. at the bottom of a letter, email, or card, it signifies a postscript. This term originates from the Latin postscriptum, which literally means "written after." Its function is to add a final thought after the main body has been signed off, allowing the writer to include something they forgot to mention or an idea that came to mind at the last moment.
The Origin and Historical Evolution
The use of P.S. dates back to the era of handwritten correspondence when letters were composed in a single flow. If a writer remembered a crucial detail after signing their name, adding a new paragraph and signature was impractical. Instead, they would add a note below the signature, effectively tacking on additional content. This practice ensured the message remained fluid and complete without the need to rewrite the entire document.
Modern Usage in Digital Communication
In the age of email and instant messaging, the P.S. remains highly relevant. While digital tools allow for easy editing, the postscript persists as a stylistic choice. It creates a sense of intimacy and informality, breaking the formal structure of a message. In business emails, a P.S. can be a powerful tool to highlight a call to action or reinforce a key selling point, ensuring the recipient sees the most critical information last.
P.S. vs. P.P.S. and Beyond
While P.S. dominates, you might encounter variations like P.P.S. (post-postscript) or P.P.P.S. These denote multiple additions after the signature. Although often used for emphasis or humor, using more than one additional note can appear messy and unprofessional. Typically, a single, well-crafted P.S. is sufficient to enhance a message without cluttering it.
Strategic Impact in Marketing and Sales
Marketers and copywriters frequently leverage the P.S. for its high-impact potential. In sales letters, the postscript is a prime location for urgency, a final persuasive argument, or a reminder of a limited-time offer. Because it appears after the signature, it feels like a private note from the sender to the reader, which can increase engagement and response rates significantly.
Etiquette and Best Practices
Using a P.S. effectively requires balance. It should add value, such as a crucial update, a heartfelt sentiment, or a humorous aside. In formal correspondence, a P.S. should be used sparingly to maintain professionalism. The content must remain concise; the goal is to supplement the main message, not to repeat information already covered in the letter's body.
The Emotional and Personal Dimension
In personal letters, the P.S. often carries significant emotional weight. It is the space where a writer adds a forgotten "I love you," a reassurance, or a final piece of advice. This small section can transform a standard note into a deeply personal communication, making the recipient feel thought of and valued long after the letter was read.
