Decoding the Power of P.S.- Understanding Its Significance in Letter Writing

What does P.S. mean when writing a letter? The abbreviation P.S. stands for “postscript,” which is a term used to denote an additional note or message that is added at the end of a letter after the main content has been completed. It is often used to include something that was forgotten or to add a final thought or comment. The practice of including a postscript in a letter dates back to the early days of written correspondence, where it was common for people to write letters by hand and might need to add a few extra words after the letter was already sealed and addressed.

Historically, the term “postscript” originated from the Latin phrase “post scriptum,” which translates to “written after.” This indicates that the additional content was not part of the original letter but was added later. In the past, before the advent of computers and email, it was quite common for individuals to include a postscript in their letters, as it allowed them to convey additional information or express something they had omitted in the main body of the letter.

Today, the use of P.S. in letters has diminished, as email and digital communication have become more prevalent. However, it is still a charming and personal touch to include a postscript in a handwritten letter. It can add a sense of playfulness, informality, or a final thought that the writer wanted to share but didn’t fit within the main content. When using a postscript, it is important to keep it brief and relevant to the context of the letter, as an overly lengthy postscript can sometimes detract from the main message.

Here are a few tips for using P.S. effectively in a letter:

– Keep it concise: A postscript should be short and to the point, focusing on a single idea or additional message.
– Be relevant: Ensure that the postscript is directly related to the content of the letter, adding value or providing further information.
– Use it sparingly: Reserve the postscript for important or meaningful messages, as overuse can make it seem unnecessary or overly casual.
– Write it naturally: Approach the postscript as if you were adding a final thought or comment in a conversation, rather than as a formal addition to the letter.

In conclusion, when writing a letter, the P.S. stands for “postscript,” a term used to denote an additional note or message added after the main content. While its use may be less common in today’s digital age, including a postscript can add a personal touch and convey additional thoughts or information to the recipient. Remember to use it effectively by keeping it concise, relevant, and natural.