Understanding the meaning and usage of “PS” is essential for effective written communication. While seemingly simple, the postscript serves a vital role in adding afterthoughts, emphasizing points, or even injecting a bit of personality into your messages.
Mastering its proper use can enhance clarity and impact in both formal and informal contexts. This article delves into the nuances of “PS,” exploring its definition, structural elements, various applications, and common pitfalls.
Whether you’re a student, professional, or simply someone looking to improve your writing skills, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to confidently and correctly use postscripts.
The postscript is more than just an addendum; it’s a strategic tool that can be used to reinforce your message or to include information that you might have forgotten in the main body of the text. Knowing when and how to use it effectively can make your writing more engaging and memorable.
Let’s explore the world of “PS” and unlock its potential to improve your communication skills.
Table of Contents
- Definition of PS
- Structural Breakdown of a Postscript
- Types and Categories of Postscripts
- Examples of PS in Various Contexts
- Usage Rules for Postscripts
- Common Mistakes When Using PS
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics Related to Postscripts
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Conclusion
Definition of PS
PS stands for postscript, a Latin term meaning “written after.” It is an afterthought or additional information added at the end of a letter, email, or other written document, typically after the signature. The primary function of a postscript is to include information that was either forgotten in the main body of the text, or that the writer wants to emphasize or add as an extra thought.
The postscript serves as a convenient way to append information without having to rewrite or significantly alter the existing text. It can be used for various purposes, including adding a personal touch, providing a reminder, or introducing a new point that complements the main message.
In modern communication, especially in emails, the formal necessity of a PS has diminished, but it still holds value for specific purposes.
Classified as an addendum, the postscript functions as an extension of the original message, offering flexibility and allowing writers to address overlooked details or make impactful final remarks. Its context can vary from formal business correspondence to casual personal notes, reflecting the writer’s intent and relationship with the recipient.
Structural Breakdown of a Postscript
The structure of a postscript is relatively straightforward. It typically consists of the abbreviation “PS” (or “P.S.” or “Ps”), followed by the additional information.
Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Elements of a Postscript
- Abbreviation: The postscript always begins with “PS,” “P.S.,” or “Ps.” While all three are acceptable, “PS” is the most commonly used and modern form.
- Content: This is the additional information you wish to convey. It can be a sentence, a paragraph, or even a short list. The content should be relevant to the main message, or at least not completely incongruous.
- Punctuation: While not strictly required, you can end the postscript with a period if it’s a complete sentence. Avoid excessive punctuation like exclamation marks unless you’re aiming for a very casual or emphatic tone.
Placement
The postscript is always placed after the signature or closing remarks of the main text. If there are multiple postscripts (though this is rare), they are labeled sequentially (PPS, PPPS, etc.).
The placement ensures that the primary message is delivered before any additional information or afterthoughts are presented.
Example Structure
Here’s a simple example illustrating the structure of a postscript:
Sincerely,
John Doe
PS Don’t forget to bring your presentation slides to the meeting.
In this example, “PS” introduces the additional reminder about the presentation slides, placed after the closing “Sincerely” and the signature “John Doe.”
Types and Categories of Postscripts
Postscripts can be categorized based on their purpose and content. Understanding these categories can help you use them more effectively.
Categories of Postscripts
- Reminder Postscripts: Used to remind the recipient of something important.
- Emphasis Postscripts: Used to emphasize a key point from the main text.
- Informative Postscripts: Used to add new or supplementary information.
- Personal Postscripts: Used to add a personal touch or anecdote.
- Call to Action Postscripts: Used to prompt the recipient to take a specific action.
Detailed Descriptions
Reminder Postscripts: These are helpful for ensuring that the recipient doesn’t overlook a crucial detail. For example, “PS Please RSVP by Friday.”
Emphasis Postscripts: These reinforce a key message from the body of the text. For instance, “PS Remember, the deadline is non-negotiable.”
Informative Postscripts: These add extra details that might be useful but weren’t included in the main text. An example would be, “PS The meeting room has been changed to Room 202.”
Personal Postscripts: These add a friendly or humorous touch. For example, “PS I hope you enjoyed the book I recommended!”
Call to Action Postscripts: These encourage the recipient to take a specific step. For example, “PS Visit our website to learn more and subscribe to our newsletter.”
Examples of PS in Various Contexts
To illustrate the different types and uses of postscripts, here are several examples organized by category. These examples cover a range of scenarios from formal to informal communication.
Reminder Postscripts
The following table illustrates reminder postscripts in various contexts. These are used to jog the recipient’s memory about something important.
| Example | Context |
|---|---|
| PS Don’t forget to submit your report by the end of the day. | Work Email |
| PS Remember to bring a dish to the potluck! | Invitation Email |
| PS Please return the library books by next week. | Friendly Reminder |
| PS Don’t forget to set your alarm for the early morning flight. | Travel Itinerary |
| PS Please confirm your attendance by Monday. | Event Invitation |
| PS Remember to water the plants while I’m away. | Instructions to House Sitter |
| PS Don’t forget to pick up the dry cleaning. | Daily Reminder |
| PS Please review the attached document before our meeting. | Professional Follow-up |
| PS Remember to charge your phone before the trip. | Packing List |
| PS Don’t forget to take out the trash tonight. | Household Chore List |
| PS Please bring your ID for entry. | Event Information |
| PS Remember to pack an umbrella. | Weather Advisory |
| PS Don’t forget to pay the electricity bill. | Monthly Bills Reminder |
| PS Please send me your updated address. | Information Request |
| PS Remember to call your mother on her birthday. | Personal Reminder |
| PS Please sign and return the attached contract. | Legal Document |
| PS Remember to book your hotel in advance. | Travel Planning |
| PS Don’t forget to renew your membership. | Membership Renewal |
| PS Please update your profile picture. | Social Media Reminder |
| PS Remember to back up your files. | Tech Advice |
| PS Please complete the survey by Friday. | Feedback Request |
| PS Remember to check your email regularly. | Communication Tip |
| PS Don’t forget to wear sunscreen. | Health Advice |
| PS Please double-check the meeting time. | Meeting Confirmation |
Emphasis Postscripts
The following table highlights emphasis postscripts, which are used to reiterate a crucial point from the main body of the text, ensuring it’s not missed.
| Example | Context |
|---|---|
| PS The most important thing is to stay safe during the experiment. | Lab Instructions |
| PS Remember, customer satisfaction is our top priority. | Company Memo |
| PS Above all, maintain a positive attitude. | Motivational Letter |
| PS It’s crucial to follow the safety protocols at all times. | Workplace Safety |
| PS The deadline for registration is absolutely firm. | Course Announcement |
| PS The key to success is consistent effort. | Advice to Students |
| PS Remember, teamwork makes the dream work! | Team Building Exercise |
| PS The quality of your work is paramount. | Performance Review |
| PS It’s vital to back up your data regularly. | Tech Support |
| PS Always double-check your calculations. | Financial Advice |
| PS The safety of the children is our utmost concern. | School Policy |
| PS Remember, honesty is the best policy. | Moral Guidance |
| PS The most important thing is to be yourself. | Self-Help Advice |
| PS It’s crucial to get enough sleep. | Health Recommendation |
| PS Never give up on your dreams. | Inspirational Message |
| PS The real treasure is the friends we make along the way. | Farewell Message |
| PS Remember, every vote counts. | Political Campaign |
| PS The key to a happy life is gratitude. | Life Advice |
| PS It’s vital to respect each other’s opinions. | Group Discussion |
| PS Never underestimate the power of kindness. | Community Service |
| PS The most important thing is to learn from your mistakes. | Personal Growth |
| PS Remember, time is of the essence. | Project Management |
| PS It’s crucial to stay informed. | Civic Engagement |
| PS Always strive for excellence. | Professional Development |
Informative Postscripts
The following table presents informative postscripts, which add new or supplementary information that wasn’t included in the main text.
| Example | Context |
|---|---|
| PS The venue has been changed to the Grand Ballroom. | Event Update |
| PS I’ve attached the updated agenda to this email. | Meeting Notification |
| PS The dress code for the event is semi-formal. | Event Information |
| PS The website will be under maintenance tomorrow from 2 AM to 4 AM. | Service Announcement |
| PS The new product will be available starting next week. | Product Launch |
| PS I forgot to mention that I’ll be bringing my colleague, Sarah. | Meeting Notification |
| PS The library will be closed on Monday for the holiday. | Library Announcement |
| PS The conference call number is 1-800-CALL-NOW. | Conference Call Information |
| PS I’ve included a map to the location in the attachment. | Directions |
| PS The sale ends this Friday, so don’t miss out! | Promotional Email |
| PS The guest speaker will be Dr. Emily Carter. | Event Details |
| PS The application deadline has been extended to July 15th. | Application Update |
| PS I’ve added a link to the recording of the webinar. | Webinar Follow-up |
| PS The restaurant also offers vegetarian options. | Restaurant Recommendation |
| PS The museum is free for students on Tuesdays. | Museum Information |
| PS The train will be delayed by 30 minutes due to maintenance. | Travel Alert |
| PS I’ve attached a list of recommended reading materials. | Course Syllabus |
| PS The event will also feature live music. | Event Entertainment |
| PS The office will be closed for the holidays from December 24th to January 1st. | Office Closure Announcement |
| PS I’ve included a discount code for your next purchase. | Customer Appreciation |
| PS The workshop will cover advanced techniques in data analysis. | Workshop Details |
| PS The new software update includes enhanced security features. | Software Update |
| PS The seminar will be held in the auditorium. | Seminar Information |
| PS I’ve added a link to the survey in the email body. | Survey Invitation |
Usage Rules for Postscripts
While the use of “PS” is fairly straightforward, there are some rules and guidelines to consider to ensure proper and effective usage.
General Guidelines
- Use Sparingly: Overusing postscripts can make your writing appear disorganized or poorly planned. Reserve them for genuinely important afterthoughts or emphasized points.
- Relevance: The content of the postscript should be relevant to the main message. Avoid adding completely unrelated information.
- Clarity: Keep the postscript concise and clear. Avoid complex sentences or jargon that might confuse the reader.
- Tone: The tone of the postscript should be consistent with the overall tone of the message. If the message is formal, the postscript should also be formal.
- Placement: Always place the postscript after the signature or closing remarks.
Formal vs. Informal Usage
In formal communication, such as business letters or official emails, using a postscript should be carefully considered. It might be seen as less professional if the information could have been included in the main body of the text.
However, a postscript can be acceptable for emphasizing a key point or adding a brief, relevant afterthought.
In informal communication, such as personal emails or notes, postscripts are more commonly used and accepted. They can add a personal touch, share a quick thought, or simply provide a reminder in a more relaxed manner.
Exceptions and Special Cases
There are few strict exceptions to the usage rules, but context always matters. In creative writing, for example, a postscript might be used for dramatic effect or to reveal a surprise twist.
In such cases, the traditional rules might be bent to serve the artistic purpose.
When using multiple postscripts (PPS, PPPS), ensure each one is clearly labeled and adds value to the message. However, it’s generally best to avoid multiple postscripts altogether, as they can make the communication appear cluttered.
Common Mistakes When Using PS
Several common mistakes can detract from the effectiveness of a postscript. Being aware of these errors can help you avoid them.
Frequent Errors
- Overuse: Using too many postscripts in a single message.
- Irrelevance: Adding information that is unrelated to the main topic.
- Complexity: Making the postscript too long or complicated.
- Inconsistency: Using a tone that is different from the rest of the message.
- Misplacement: Placing the postscript before the signature.
Correct vs. Incorrect Examples
Here are some examples of common mistakes and how to correct them:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Sincerely, John Doe PS Buy milk. PPS Walk dog. PPPS Pay bills. |
Sincerely, John Doe PS Remember to take care of the chores I mentioned. |
Avoid multiple postscripts; consolidate the information. |
| Best, Jane Smith PS I love cats! |
Best, Jane Smith PS I enjoyed our conversation about pet adoption. |
Ensure the postscript is relevant to the main message. |
| Regards, Mike Johnson PS The meeting is at 3 PM; it will be very important, so please come prepared to present your quarterly strategic plan. |
Regards, Mike Johnson PS The meeting is at 3 PM. |
Keep the postscript concise and to the point. |
| Thank you, Emily White PS See you later! LOL! |
Thank you, Emily White PS See you later! |
Maintain a consistent tone; avoid overly casual language in formal contexts. |
| PS Don’t forget to reply! Best, David Lee |
Best, David Lee PS Don’t forget to reply! |
Always place the postscript after the signature. |
Test your knowledge of postscript usage with these exercises. Fill in the blanks or rewrite the sentences to include an appropriate postscript. Add a reminder postscript to each of the following sentences. Add an emphasis postscript to each of the following sentences.Practice Exercises
Exercise 1: Adding Reminder Postscripts
Question
Answer
1. Hi Sarah, I’m looking forward to seeing you at the party.
1. Hi Sarah, I’m looking forward to seeing you at the party.
PS Please bring a bottle of wine to share.
2. Dear John, Thank you for your application.
2. Dear John, Thank you for your application.
PS The deadline for submitting additional documents is next Friday.
3. Hello Team, Please review the project proposal.
3. Hello Team, Please review the project proposal.
PS The meeting to discuss the proposal is scheduled for Tuesday.
4. Hi Mom, I had a great time visiting you.
4. Hi Mom, I had a great time visiting you.
PS I’ll call you next week to schedule our next visit.
5. Dear Customer, Thank you for your recent purchase.
5. Dear Customer, Thank you for your recent purchase.
PS Your order will ship within 24 hours.
6. Hello Students, Please complete the assignment.
6. Hello Students, Please complete the assignment.
PS The assignment is due next Monday.
7. Hi Friend, Let’s meet up soon.
7. Hi Friend, Let’s meet up soon.
PS I’m free next weekend.
8. Dear Reader, Thank you for your interest in our book.
8. Dear Reader, Thank you for your interest in our book.
PS Don’t forget to leave a review.
9. Hello Colleague, Please prepare for our conference.
9. Hello Colleague, Please prepare for our conference.
PS Please finalize your presentation slides.
10. Hi Neighbor, See you at the community event.
10. Hi Neighbor, See you at the community event.
PS It starts at 2 PM.Exercise 2: Adding Emphasis Postscripts
Question
Answer
1. The most important thing is to be respectful.
1. The most important thing is to be respectful.
PS Remember, respect is the foundation of good relationships.
2. Customer service is our top priority.
2. Customer service is our top priority.
PS We’re committed to providing excellent support.
3. Safety should always come first.
3. Safety should always come first.
PS Following safety protocols is essential.
4. Teamwork is essential for success.
4. Teamwork is essential for success.
PS Working together will help us achieve our goals.
5. Honesty is the best policy.
5. Honesty is the best policy.
PS Always strive to be truthful.
6. Hard work pays off.
6. Hard work pays off.
PS Dedication is the key.
7. Always strive for excellence.
7. Always strive for excellence.
PS Never settle for mediocrity.
8. Education is the key to a better future.
8. Education is the key to a better future.
PS Knowledge empowers you.
9. Never give up on your dreams.
9. Never give up on your dreams.
PS Persistence is key.
10. Communication is key to a healthy relationship.
10. Communication is key to a healthy relationship.
PS Always be open and honest.
Advanced Topics Related to Postscripts
For advanced learners, exploring the historical context, stylistic variations, and psychological impact of postscripts can provide a deeper understanding of their role in communication.
Historical Context
The use of postscripts dates back to the era of handwritten letters, when it was more cumbersome to edit or rewrite an entire document. Postscripts provided a practical way to add information without having to start over.
Understanding this historical context can shed light on why postscripts were so prevalent in the past and how their usage has evolved with the advent of digital communication.
Stylistic Variations
The style of a postscript can vary depending on the writer’s personality, the context of the message, and the relationship with the recipient. Some writers use postscripts to add humor, while others use them to convey a sense of urgency or importance.
Analyzing these stylistic variations can help you tailor your postscripts to achieve the desired effect.
Psychological Impact
A well-placed postscript can have a significant psychological impact on the reader. It can create a sense of personal connection, emphasize a key message, or leave a lasting impression.
Understanding these psychological effects can help you use postscripts strategically to enhance your communication.
PPS, PPPS and Beyond
While rarely used in modern communication, the abbreviations PPS (post-postscript) and PPPS (post-post-postscript) exist for adding further afterthoughts. In extremely rare instances, you might see even more iterations (PPPPS, etc.), but these are generally discouraged. The use of multiple postscripts suggests a lack of organization and can confuse the reader. If you find yourself needing more than one postscript, consider revising the main body of your message to incorporate the additional information or using a numbered list at the end instead.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some frequently asked questions about the use of “PS” in written communication.
- What does “PS” stand for?
“PS” stands for postscript, which comes from the Latin postscriptum, meaning “written after.” - Where should I place the postscript in my message?
The postscript should always be placed after the signature or closing remarks of the main text. - Is it okay to use multiple postscripts (PPS, PPPS)?
While technically acceptable, using multiple postscripts is generally discouraged. It’s better to incorporate the information into the main body of the text or use a single, well-crafted postscript. - What kind of information should I include in a postscript?
Include information that was either forgotten in the main body of the text, or that you want to emphasize or add as an extra thought. - Is it appropriate to use postscripts in formal communication?
Use postscripts sparingly in formal communication. They can be acceptable for emphasizing a key point or adding a brief, relevant afterthought, but avoid using them for essential information that should have been included in the main text. - How long should a postscript be?
A postscript should be concise and to the point. Avoid making it too long or complicated. - What if I forget something after writing the postscript?
While you *could* use PPS, consider if the forgotten information is truly essential. If so, it might be better to rewrite the entire message. Otherwise, leave it be. - Is it necessary to use a period at the end of a postscript?
It’s not strictly necessary, but you can use a period if the postscript is a complete sentence. - Can I use a postscript to add humor to a message?
Yes, especially in informal communication, a postscript can be a great way to add a personal touch or a bit of humor. Just make sure it’s appropriate for the context and your relationship with the recipient. - What’s the difference between PS, P.S., and Ps?
All three are acceptable, but “PS” is the most common and modern form. “P.S.” is also widely used, while “Ps” is less common but still correct.
Conclusion
Mastering the use of “PS” can significantly enhance your written communication skills. By understanding its definition, structural elements, types, and usage rules, you can effectively add afterthoughts, emphasize points, and inject personality into your messages.
Remember to use postscripts sparingly, ensure they are relevant, and maintain a consistent tone throughout your communication.
By avoiding common mistakes and practicing the techniques outlined in this guide, you can confidently and correctly use postscripts in various contexts. Whether you’re writing a formal business email or a casual personal note, the strategic use of “PS” can help you make a lasting impression and improve the clarity and impact of your message.
Continue to practice and refine your skills to become a more effective communicator.