When you scan your inbox, the letters "ps" often appear at the bottom of a colleague’s message or a client’s note. In the context of email communication, ps stands for postscript, a final remark added after the main signature. This tiny pair of letters carries significant weight, signaling a casual aside or a crucial reminder that the writer decided to include at the last moment.
The Origin and Meaning of P.S.
The term originates from the Latin postscriptum, which literally means "written after." Historically, before word processors allowed for easy editing, writers would add notes after signing their names because they remembered something important too late. In modern emails, the function remains the same: it is a digital space for afterthoughts. Unlike the main body, which adheres to a logical flow, the ps breaks the fourth wall to speak directly to the reader with urgency or intimacy.
Why People Use P.S. in Professional Contexts
In a professional setting, the ps serves as a strategic tool. It allows the sender to highlight a call to action without disrupting the formal structure of the email. Because the eyes naturally drift to the bottom of an email to find the signature, the ps is a prime location to ensure the recipient remembers the key request. Whether it is a reminder about a deadline or a subtle nudge to respond, the ps creates a psychological anchor for the message.
The Psychology Behind the Postscript
Human behavior plays a vital role in the effectiveness of a postscript. A well-crafted ps can mimic the feeling of a whispered confidence or a sudden realization. It suggests authenticity, as if the writer is sharing a secret or final thought that didn't fit the initial draft. This perceived honesty can lower the recipient's guard, making them more likely to act on the information provided, as the ps often feels like the "real" reason for the email. Best Practices for Using P.S. To use this element effectively, restraint is key. Overusing ps in every email dilutes its impact and can make the sender appear scatterbrained. Reserve it for moments that truly matter, such as correcting a typo in the signature, adding a forgotten detail, or emphasizing a critical deadline. The tone should match the relationship; a casual ps suits a long-standing colleague, while a more formal closing is better for new clients.
Best Practices for Using P.S.
Formatting and Placement
Technically, there is no strict rule for formatting, but consistency ensures professionalism. Typically, the writer places two line breaks between the body and the ps, then types the letters in lowercase ("ps:") followed by a colon or a space. The text that follows should be concise; the postscript is not the place for a lengthy paragraph. If there are multiple points, a bullet list is often a cleaner alternative to stacking multiple ps lines.
P.S. vs. Signature Line
It is important to distinguish the ps from the signature block. The signature contains contact information, titles, and legal disclaimers, serving the purpose of identification. The ps, however, serves communication. While the signature says "who" the sender is, the ps often explains "why" the message is urgent. Savvy email users treat the area above the signature as the last chance to persuade, rather than a mere formality.
Common Misconceptions and Errors
Some writers mistakenly believe that ps allows them to bypass standard grammar rules entirely. While the tone can be relaxed, clarity should never be sacrificed. A ps filled with jargon or run-on sentences confuses the reader rather than enlightening them. Furthermore, using multiple postscripts (ps, pps, ppps) is generally seen as unprofessional and indicates a lack of foresight in drafting the original message. A single, sharp postscript is far more effective than a chain of afterthoughts.
