How To Write A P.S. In A Letter: Mastering The Art of Postscripts
Writing a letter is a craft, and like any craft, it has its nuances. You carefully choose your words, construct your sentences, and aim for a specific tone. But what about that little addition at the end, the P.S. (Postscript)? Often overlooked, the P.S. can be a powerful tool for grabbing attention, adding personality, and leaving a lasting impression. In this guide, we’ll delve into how to write a P.S. in a letter that elevates your correspondence from good to great.
The Purpose of the P.S.: Why Bother?
Before we dive into the “how,” let’s explore the “why.” Why even include a P.S.? The primary purpose of a postscript is to add something after you’ve concluded your main message. This could be a forgotten detail, a final thought, or even a subtle attempt to influence the reader. Historically, postscripts were essential because they were often added after the letter was sealed, meaning the sender couldn’t easily go back and include something. While we have the advantage of digital edits today, the P.S. still carries weight. It suggests an afterthought, a secret, or something particularly important.
Crafting a Compelling P.S.: Rules and Guidelines
There are no hard and fast rules, but some guidelines can help you use the P.S. effectively.
Choosing the Right Content
The content you include in your P.S. should be relevant to the overall letter, but not critical to the main message. Think of it as an extra touch, a bonus. Avoid including anything crucial that you forgot in the body of the letter; instead, rewrite the body. Potential content includes:
- Adding a personal anecdote.
- Offering a call to action.
- Mentioning a related event or item.
- Reiterating a key point.
- Adding a touch of humor.
The Importance of Brevity
Keep your P.S. concise. A long, rambling postscript defeats the purpose of its secondary nature. Aim for a single sentence or, at most, two short sentences. The goal is to be memorable, not to overwhelm.
Placement and Formatting
The standard placement is, of course, at the very end of the letter, after your closing and signature. You can format it with “P.S.” or “P.S.S.” (Post-Postscript) if you have multiple afterthoughts. Ensure the P.S. is clearly set apart from the main text, usually by a line break.
P.S. Examples: From Formal to Friendly
The tone of your P.S. should align with the overall tone of your letter. Here are some examples to illustrate this point:
Formal Letter Example
Main Body: “Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.”
Closing: “Sincerely, / John Doe”
P.S.: “I have attached my portfolio for your review, as requested.”
Friendly Letter Example
Main Body: “It was great catching up with you last week! Let’s plan another get-together soon.”
Closing: “Best, / Jane”
P.S.: “I almost forgot! Did you see the new exhibit at the art gallery? I think you’d love it.”
Business Letter Example
Main Body: “Please find the attached proposal outlining the project scope and budget.”
Closing: “Regards, / David Smith, CEO”
P.S.: “Our special offer of 10% off for new clients ends next Friday. Contact us to take advantage!”
The Power of the Unexpected P.S.
Sometimes, the most effective P.S. is the unexpected one. This can be a way to inject humor, surprise, or intrigue. Consider these possibilities:
- A humorous aside: “P.S. My dog, Sparky, sends his regards (and a request for belly rubs).”
- A thought-provoking question: “P.S. What’s the one thing you’d do differently if you knew you couldn’t fail?”
- A subtle promotion: “P.S. Be sure to check out our new website; it’s packed with exclusive deals!”
Avoiding Common P.S. Pitfalls
While the P.S. can be a boon, it can also be a bane if misused. Avoid these common mistakes:
- Including critical information: If something is essential, it belongs in the body of the letter.
- Repeating information: Don’t simply restate what you’ve already said.
- Using it for negativity: Keep the P.S. positive and upbeat.
- Making it too long: Brevity is key.
- Being insincere: Authenticity is crucial.
The P.S. in the Digital Age: Emails and Beyond
The principles of the P.S. apply to digital communication as well. In emails, the postscript remains a valuable tool. It’s a way to add a final thought, a call to action, or a personal touch after the main body of the email is complete. Be mindful of the same principles: keep it concise, relevant, and aligned with the overall message.
Maximizing Impact: Strategies for a Memorable P.S.
To make your P.S. truly stand out, consider these strategies:
The Element of Surprise
A P.S. that catches the reader off guard can be extremely effective. This could involve a witty observation, a surprising fact, or a genuine expression of gratitude.
The Personal Touch
Personalizing your P.S. demonstrates that you’ve put thought into the communication. Mentioning something specific to the recipient, referencing a shared experience, or using their name can make a big difference.
The Call to Action
Use your P.S. to subtly prompt the reader to take a specific action, such as visiting your website, calling you, or replying to your email. This is particularly effective in business correspondence.
FAQs: Answering Your Postscript Questions
Here are a few frequently asked questions about postscripts:
What if I have multiple afterthoughts?
In this case, you can use P.S.S. (Post-Postscript). However, try to consolidate your afterthoughts if possible. Too many P.S. sections can become confusing.
Is the P.S. still relevant in the age of instant messaging?
Yes! While instant messaging is more immediate, the P.S. still has value. It’s a way to add a final, quick thought or a subtle emphasis.
Can I use emojis in my P.S.?
The answer depends on your audience and the context. In a formal letter, emojis are generally inappropriate. However, in a more casual email, a carefully chosen emoji can add personality.
Should I capitalize the “P” and “S” in P.S.?
Yes, it’s standard practice to capitalize both letters.
Is it okay to use a P.S. in a formal cover letter?
While generally acceptable, use it sparingly and ensure it adds value. Consider adding a personal touch or a final statement of enthusiasm.
Conclusion: The P.S. – A Powerful Finishing Touch
Mastering how to write a P.S. in a letter is a valuable skill. It’s a way to enhance your communication, add personality, and leave a lasting impression. By understanding the purpose of the P.S., following the guidelines, and avoiding common pitfalls, you can transform this often-overlooked element into a powerful tool. Whether you’re writing a formal business letter or a friendly note, the P.S. offers a final opportunity to connect with your reader and make your message truly memorable. So, the next time you pen a letter, take advantage of the P.S. – it might just be the secret ingredient that makes your writing stand out.