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Adding a Postscript (P.S.): Does It Make a Difference?

April 15, 2025 ResumeProWorks Career Expert

Ever wondered if adding a postscript (P.S.) really matters in your emails or letters? It might seem like a small detail, but a well-placed P.S. can have a big impact. Whether you're trying to grab attention or add a personal touch, this little addition can make your message stand out. Let's explore how to use it effectively and why it’s more than just an afterthought.

Key Takeaways

A P.S. can catch the reader's eye and highlight important points.
Using a P.S. adds a friendly, personal touch to your messages.
Be careful not to overdo it; too many P.S. can confuse the reader.

The Art of Adding a Postscript (P.S.)

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Mastering the Format

So, you want to add a P.S.? Excellent choice! But before you go wild, let's talk format. It's not just slapping 'P.S.' at the end and calling it a day. There's a certain finesse to it. First, always place it after your signature. Think of it as the encore to your written performance. You wouldn't skip the bow, would you?

Always after the signature.
Use 'P.S.' (US) or 'PS' (UK) – but be consistent.
Avoid 'P.P.S.' unless you're writing to your grandma.

A well-placed P.S. can be the cherry on top of your letter, but a poorly formatted one is like a rogue apostrophe – jarring and unprofessional.

When to Use P.S. Like a Pro

Okay, now that we know how, let's discuss when. A P.S. isn't just for random thoughts that pop into your head after you've signed off. It's a strategic tool. Use it to highlight a key point, add a personal touch, or offer a special bonus. Think of it as your last chance to make an impression. For example, if you're sending out an email about a sale, a P.S. could mention a limited-time discount code. Sneaky, right?

Highlight a key point.
Add a personal touch.
Offer a special bonus.

| Scenario | Example P.S.

Why P.S. Is More Than Just a Afterthought

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Capturing Attention

Let's be honest, in our world of endless scrolling and overflowing inboxes, getting someone's attention is half the battle. A P.S. can be like a little surprise at the end of a message, a final chance to emphasize a point and make an impact. It's that last little nudge that can make someone stop and think, or even better, take action. Think of it as the encore of your email – a chance to leave them wanting more. It's a strategic spot to reiterate your main point or add a compelling offer.

Adding a Personal Touch

Emails can sometimes feel a bit cold and impersonal, especially in a professional setting. But a P.S. offers a chance to inject a bit of personality and warmth. It's a space where you can add a quick, friendly note, a relevant anecdote, or even a touch of humor. This can help you build rapport with your reader and make your message more memorable. It shows you're not just a robot churning out emails, but a real person connecting with another real person. It's a great way to end on a positive note and leave a lasting impression. For example, you might use a P.S. to mention something you and the recipient have in common, or to wish them well on a personal matter. It's these small gestures that can make a big difference in building relationships.

A well-crafted P.S. can transform a standard message into something more engaging and personal. It's an opportunity to connect with your audience on a deeper level and leave a lasting impression.

Common Missteps in Adding a Postscript (P.S.)

Overusing P.S. to the Point of Madness

We've all seen it: the email or letter that seems to have a never-ending string of P.S., P.P.S., and even P.P.P.S. additions. While a single, well-placed P.S. can be effective, bombarding your reader with multiple afterthoughts is a surefire way to dilute your message and appear disorganized. Think of the P.S. as a special treat, not the entire meal. It's like adding too much seasoning to a dish; you risk overpowering the original flavor.

Keep it concise.
Limit yourself to one P.S., maybe two if absolutely necessary.
Ensure each P.S. adds genuine value.

Overusing the P.S. can make your communication seem scattered and unprofessional. It suggests a lack of planning and can frustrate your audience. Remember, less is often more.

Mixing Up Your Punctuation

Punctuation might seem like a minor detail, but consistency is key when it comes to crafting a polished message. The correct way to use 'P.S.' in an email is to stick to either "P.S." (with periods) or "PS" (without periods). Mixing and matching within the same document can make you look careless. Furthermore, avoid adding a comma after the P.S. – it's simply not grammatically correct. Attention to detail matters, especially in formal communication. If you're unsure, choose one style and stick with it throughout your writing. Think of it as choosing a font – you wouldn't switch fonts mid-sentence, would you?

When adding a postscript (P.S.) to your letters or messages, it's easy to make mistakes. One common error is making it too long or including too many details. A P.S. should be short and sweet, highlighting the most important point. Another mistake is forgetting to connect it to the main message, which can confuse the reader. To learn more about how to effectively use P.S. in your writing, visit our website for tips and examples!

Wrapping It Up: The Power of P.S.

So, there you have it! Adding a P.S. can be a game changer, whether you're trying to seal the deal, remind someone of a key point, or just sprinkle a little personality into your message. It’s like the cherry on top of your email sundae. Just remember to keep it short, sweet, and relevant. If you nail the format and keep your reader in mind, that little postscript could be the difference between a forgotten email and one that gets a response. So go ahead, give it a shot! Who knows? Your next P.S. might just be the highlight of someone’s day.