What Does P.S. Stand For On A Letter: The Surprising History And Strategic Use Of The Postscript
The postscript, commonly abbreviated as "P.S.," is a ubiquitous feature of written communication, yet its origins and precise function are often misunderstood. Standing for the Latin term "post scriptum," which translates to "written after," it denotes text added following the main signature or conclusion of a letter. Far from being a mere afterthought, the P.S. has evolved into a distinct rhetorical device, historically employed for confidentiality and currently leveraged for maximum impact in both personal and professional contexts.
The Latin Roots and Historical Evolution
The term "postscript" is derived directly from the Latin phrase "post scriptum," the neuter past participle of "postscribere," meaning "to write after." This linguistic origin underscores its fundamental purpose: information written after the primary message is complete. Historically, the P.S. served a critical function in an era where communication was not instantaneous and letters could be intercepted.
Before the advent of modern mail systems, letters were often read by censors or unintended recipients. Authors would sometimes add crucial thoughts, corrections, or sensitive information in the margins or after the signature specifically to avoid drawing attention during the initial reading. This practice imbued the P.S. with an air of intimacy and confidentiality, suggesting the writer had reserved a final, perhaps more honest, thought for the recipient's eyes alone.
Historical Usage and Secrecy
In centuries past, the postscript was a strategic tool. Consider the correspondence of notable historical figures who used the P.S. to convey information they did not want intermediaries to see. It was a safeguard, a way to ensure a secondary message bypassed the main narrative of the letter.
- Confidential Additions: Used to add information the writer did not want included in the official record of the letter.
- Emotional Afterthoughts: A spontaneous addition of a feeling or sentiment that the author felt was too immediate to include in the structured flow of the letter.
- Corrective Notes: Clarifying a point or correcting a typo without altering the main body of the text.
The Mechanics of a P.S. in Modern Writing
In contemporary usage, the function of the P.S. has shifted from secrecy to emphasis. While the literal translation remains "written after," the practical application is about prominence. It is a tool for the writer to signal to the reader that there is one final, important point that should not be missed.
The structure of a modern letter or email typically follows a predictable format, making the P.S. stand out visually. It is a typographical break from the standard flow, utilizing white space to create a pause that demands attention. This visual distinctiveness is the key to its enduring effectiveness.
Standard Formatting Conventions
To maintain professionalism and clarity, there are established norms for how to format a postscript. These conventions ensure the reader immediately recognizes the intended purpose of the added text.
- The Initials: The abbreviation "P.S." is typically written in uppercase letters. Periods are usually included after each letter (P.S.) although modern digital communication sometimes omits them (PS).
- The Placement: It is positioned after the sender's signature line in a physical letter or at the end of an email or message, following the valediction (e.g., "Sincerely" or "Best regards").
- The Indentation: Traditionally, the first line of the P.S. text is indented, or the entire block is aligned to the left but separated by a blank line, to visually distinguish it from the main body.
The P.S. in the Digital Age
The rise of email and instant messaging has not diminished the relevance of the P.S.; rather, it has adapted. In the fast-paced digital landscape, the P.S. has become a critical component of email marketing and personal communication, often serving as the most-read part of the message.
Marketing strategist and author Alexandra Watkins, in her work on customer communication, highlights the psychological power of the postscript. "The P.S. is your last chance to resonate," Watkins explains. "In a crowded inbox, it is a guaranteed space where the reader's eyes will land, making it the perfect spot for a call to action, a poignant quote, or a final compelling reason to respond."
Strategic Applications in the 21st Century
Today, the P.S. is employed with deliberate intent. Its applications are vast and varied, ranging from heartfelt personal messages to sophisticated business strategies.
- Personal Relationships: Used to add a touch of romance, a forgotten "I love you," or a humorous aside that adds personality to a message.
- Business and Sales: A primary tool for reinforcing a key selling point, offering a limited-time discount, or providing a clear next step for the client.
- Job Applications: An opportunity for a final, impactful statement that reiterates enthusiasm or mentions a crucial qualification not covered in the main resume cover letter.
Common Misconceptions and Clarifications
Despite its widespread use, several misconceptions persist regarding the P.S. One common error is the belief that a postscript invalidates the coherence of the main message. In reality, a well-crafted P.S. complements the letter by providing a final, cohesive thought or summary.
Another frequent question pertains to formality. While a P.S. can add a personal touch to a formal business letter, its use must be judicious. In highly formal diplomatic or legal documents, unsolicited additions can be viewed as unprofessional. Therefore, understanding the audience and context is paramount.
Ultimately, the postscript remains a testament to the evolution of written language. From a safeguard against prying eyes in the age of quills to a strategic digital tool for capturing attention, the humble "P.S." has proven its enduring value. It is a small notation with a significant history, reminding us that sometimes the most important words are the ones added last.
