PS: All about postscripts

What does PS mean?

“PS” is short for “postscript.” A postscript is typically used to add an extra note to a letter, but it can also be used to add a note to an article or a book. The word “postscript” comes from the Latin word postscriptum, which means “to write after.”¹

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The origins of postscripts

While cell phones and word processors make it easy for us to go back and edit our writing, that wasn’t the case back in the day. Before modern technology, people had to handwrite their letters with pen and paper. If they forgot to include something once they finished their letter, they couldn’t go back to add more sentences. Instead, they would add “PS” to the end of their letter and include the note they forgot.

How to use PS

Your PS should always go at the end of your note or letter under your signature. You can use a postscript if you forget to add something to your original note, or you can use it if you have an unrelated thought that didn’t make sense in your original letter.

Examples of PS

Even though handwritten notes or letters aren’t as popular as they used to be, people still use PS in their messages. Here are some examples of how PS can be used in a note or a letter:

Hi Mom,
I hope you’re having fun on vacation! Just wanted to let you know that I stopped by the house to water your plants while you’re away. They were starting to look a little dead.
-Your daughter

PS: You left the living room light on in the house. I turned it off for you.

Here’s another example of how PS could be used:

Hi John,
Please make sure the front door is fully locked when you get home.
Love,
Mom

PS: Jessica stopped by the house earlier, but you weren’t home. Call her when you get the chance.

Is it PS or P.S.?

When it comes to abbreviations, knowing what punctuation to use can be confusing. Both PS and P.S. are correct.

It’s important to note that some style guides call for different punctuation styles. For example, the Chicago Manual of Style prefers “PS” without periods.

When to use PS

It’s perfectly acceptable still to include a “PS” note in a handwritten note or letter. However, with modern technology, it’s not really necessary to use a postscript in emails or text messages because you can always include the sentences that you forgot to add before hitting send.

It’s more acceptable to use “PS” in an email or text to a friend or family member, especially if you’re using it to add a touch of humor to your message, but avoid using PS in a business letter or email. In formal writing, your thoughts should be clear and collected. Adding “PS” to your professional writing might make it seem like you can’t gather your thoughts effectively.

What does PPS stand for?

The abbreviation “PPS” is less popular than “PS.” It means “post postscript.” If you need to add an additional note after your first “PS,” then you would use “PPS” after it. For example:

Hi José,
Please let the dogs out when you get home.
-Michelle

PS: I bought more coffee beans. They’re in the cabinet.
PPS: You got a package from your mother

Now that you understand postscripts, you can use them correctly in your emails or letters. If you’re interested in learning more about writing professional messages, learn how you should write emails for work.

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