PS Meaning & How to Use it Correctly
Curious about the meaning of PS? Learn what PS stands for, how to use it correctly in letters and emails, and why it adds impact to your message.
When you write a letter, email, or message, you might remember something after signing off. Instead of rewriting your message, you can simply add PS at the end. But what exactly does PS mean, and how can you use it correctly?
In this guide, you’ll learn the full meaning of PS, its origin, how to use it effectively in both letters and digital communication, and the right way to format it.
What Does PS Mean?
PS stands for postscript, which comes from the Latin phrase post scriptum, meaning “written after.”
You use PS to add an extra thought, comment, or reminder after finishing your main message. It appears below your signature and serves as an additional note rather than part of the main text.
Before digital communication, people often used PS in handwritten or typed letters when they forgot to include something. Instead of rewriting the whole letter, they would simply write PS at the bottom and add their forgotten point.
Even today, PS remains a powerful and familiar tool in written communication. You’ll often see it in personal letters, professional emails, text messages, and even marketing campaigns.
PS in Letters and Emails
A PS fits naturally into both personal letters and professional emails. It helps you include extra thoughts, highlight key details, or add a friendly note without rewriting your message. You can use it to remind someone of an event, share thanks, or emphasize a final point. Let’s look at how PS works in letters and emails.
PS in Traditional Letters
In traditional letters, PS appears after your closing and signature. It gives your message a warm, personal touch, making your communication feel thoughtful and human.
For example:
Sincerely,
Emma
PS: Don’t forget our lunch date next Friday at noon!
In handwritten or printed letters, this small addition often feels charming and authentic. It also makes your recipient feel you thought of them even after finishing your letter.
PS in Digital Communication
In emails, text messages, and social media, PS still works beautifully. You can use it to:
- Add an afterthought
- Emphasize a key point
- Encourage action
- Include a reminder
For example:
Best,
John
PS: I’ll be working remotely next week, but I’m happy to meet over Zoom.
In digital communication, PS stands out visually, especially in long messages. Many readers skim emails, focusing mainly on the beginning and end. By placing something important in a PS, you can make sure it gets noticed, and it’s also one of the ways to end your email professionally.
Now that you understand where PS fits, let’s explore the many ways you can use it effectively.
How to Use PS
You can use PS in many ways, depending on your purpose and audience. Here are some common and effective uses:
1. Add Extra Information
Use PS to include something not covered in your main message.
Example: PS: Don’t forget to check the updated schedule I sent this morning.
2. Share an Afterthought
If you remember something after signing off, PS is perfect for adding that extra note.
Example: PS: I just realized I forgot to thank you for your help yesterday, thank you so much!
3. Emphasize a Key Point
You can use PS to make sure your reader notices an important detail.
Example: PS: Please bring your presentation slides to the meeting on Wednesday.
4. Clarify Information
If you need to correct or clarify something mentioned earlier, add it as a PS.
Example: PS: Just to clarify, the meeting is in Room 204, not Room 402.
5. Give a Friendly Reminder
PS works well for quick reminders about deadlines, appointments, or follow-ups.
Example: PS: Don’t forget the report is due this Friday at 5 p.m.
6. Add a Personal Touch
You can include something kind, personal, or heartfelt after your main message.
Example: PS: Congratulations again on your new role, you truly earned it!
7. Include Humor or Personality
A PS can show your sense of humor or personality, especially in informal messages.
Example: PS: Bring coffee to the meeting, I owe you one next time!
8. Add a Call to Action (CTA)
Marketers and business professionals often use PS to encourage readers to take action.
Example: PS: Sign up by midnight to enjoy 20% off your first order.
9. Highlight Promotions or Offers
If you’re writing a business email or newsletter, PS is a great place to feature offers or deals.
Example: PS: This special offer ends on Sunday, don’t miss out!
10. Leave a Final Thought
You can use PS to summarize your message or end on a memorable note.
Example: PS: I’m confident our collaboration will bring great results, let’s make it happen!
How to Write PS Correctly
Although PS is informal by nature, you should still write and format it correctly. Here’s how:
1. Capitalization
Always capitalize both letters: PS or P.S.
- PS (without periods) is preferred in American English.
- P.S. (with periods) is common in British English.
Either version is correct, just stay consistent in your writing.
2. Punctuation After PS
You can follow PS with a colon (PS:), or you can leave it plain (PS).
- Correct: PS: Don’t forget to bring your notes.
- Correct: PS Don’t forget to bring your notes.
- Incorrect: PS, Don’t forget to bring your notes.
- Incorrect: PS; Don’t forget to bring your notes.
Avoid commas and semicolons, they are grammatically incorrect after PS.
3. Placement
Always place your PS after your signature.
Example (Letter):
Sincerely,
Ava
PS: I’ll send you the final draft by Monday.
In an email, you can include your PS above or below your automatic signature.
Example (Email):
Best,
Liam
PS: I’ll be out of office next week but available for a call Friday.
[Email Signature]
If you want your email signature to stay separate, place the PS below it.
4. Keep It Short
Your PS should be brief, ideally one or two sentences. The goal is to add value, not overwhelm.
Example: PS: I’ll drop off the documents tomorrow morning.
Long PS notes can lose their charm and distract from your main message.
5. Add More Than One PS (PPS)
If you have a second afterthought, you can add PPS (post-postscript).
Example:
Best regards,
Ella
PS: Please confirm the meeting time by Wednesday.
PPS: I’ve attached the latest draft for your review.
You can use PPS (or P.P.S.) for a second note, but avoid adding more. Multiple postscripts can make your message look cluttered.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When using PS, avoid these common errors:
- Overusing it. One or two postscripts are fine; more can look messy.
- Writing a long PS. Keep it short and focused.
- Changing punctuation styles. Be consistent with PS or P.S. throughout.
- Using it for unrelated topics. Keep your PS relevant to your main message.
- Placing it before your signature. Always write PS after you sign off.
Examples of PS in Use
Seeing how PS works in real messages can help you use it confidently. These examples show how to include a postscript in personal letters, professional emails, and marketing messages. Each one adds a final touch that strengthens the main message and leaves a lasting impression.
Example 1: Personal Letter
Dear Michael,
It was great catching up with you last weekend. I really enjoyed hearing about your new job and family adventures. Let’s plan another trip soon, it’s been far too long!
Best,
Anna
PS: Don’t forget to send me the photos from our hiking trip!
Example 2: Professional Email
Subject: Marketing Strategy Meeting
Dear Team,
I hope your week is going well. Attached, you’ll find the updated marketing strategy proposal for next quarter. Please review it before our meeting next Monday.
Best regards,
Sarah
PS: Come prepared with any questions or suggestions for our campaign launch.
Sarah Chen
Marketing Director | BrightWave Media
Example 3: Marketing Message
Subject: Don’t Miss This Offer!
Hi Mark,
We’re excited to announce our new product launch this week. For a limited time, you can save 15% on all pre-orders.
Order today and be one of the first to try it!
Best,
The EcoHome Team
PS: This special launch discount ends Sunday at midnight, don’t miss out!
Benefits of Using PS
Adding a PS can make your writing more engaging, personal, and effective. Here are a few benefits to consider:
1. Creates a Personal Connection
Using PS adds warmth to your message. It feels spontaneous, making your communication more genuine and human.
2. Emphasizes Key Points
A PS naturally draws the reader’s attention. If you use it for something important, your message is more likely to stick.
3. Encourages Engagement
In marketing or professional emails, a PS can prompt quick action. Readers often scan messages and focus on what’s at the end, so a PS is a perfect spot for your call to action.
4. Adds Flexibility
Sometimes, you remember something after finishing your message. Instead of rewriting, you can easily include it in a PS.
5. Breaks Formal Tone
A PS helps you sound friendly and approachable. It’s a subtle way to balance professionalism with personality.
6. Keeps Your Message Organized
You can use a PS to separate side notes from your main content. This helps you stay on topic while still sharing additional thoughts.
Final Thoughts
A PS is more than just an afterthought. It’s a timeless writing tool that adds warmth, clarity, and emphasis to your messages.
Whether you’re writing a personal letter, professional email, or marketing message, understanding the meaning of PS and using it correctly helps you connect with your reader, highlight key details, and leave a lasting impression.
So next time you finish a message and remember one last thing, don’t start over. Just add PS, and say it perfectly.
PS FAQs
What Does PS Mean?
PS stands for postscript, from the Latin post scriptum, meaning “written after.” It’s used for adding extra thoughts or information after your main message.
What Is PS Used For?
You use PS to add reminders, afterthoughts, extra details, personal notes, or calls to action. It helps draw attention to key information.
How Do You Punctuate PS?
Capitalize both letters. You can write PS or P.S., and follow it with a colon or no punctuation. Never use commas or semicolons.
Can You Add More Than One PS?
Yes. The second one is called PPS (post-postscript). Use it only when adding a short, relevant point.
Where Do You Place PS?
Always place PS below your signature. In emails, you can put it above or below your automatic signature depending on your preference.
How Long Should a PS Be?
Keep it brief, ideally one or two sentences. A short PS is easy to notice and remember.
