How To Write Postscript In A Letter: Mastering the Art of the P.S.
Let’s talk about the humble postscript. Often overlooked, the P.S. (short for post scriptum, Latin for “written after”) can be a powerful tool in your letter-writing arsenal. It’s your chance to add a final thought, emphasize a key point, or inject a touch of personality. Mastering the art of the postscript can elevate your letters from simply informative to truly memorable. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about crafting effective and impactful postscripts.
The Undeniable Power of the P.S.: Why Use a Postscript?
Why bother with a P.S. at all? In an age dominated by emails and instant messaging, the postscript holds a unique position. It inherently suggests a thought that occurred after the main body of your message was considered complete. This can create a sense of immediacy, intimacy, and sometimes even a touch of humor. It’s a subtle way to grab attention and leave a lasting impression. Think of it as a bonus, a little extra something that the reader wasn’t necessarily expecting.
Crafting the Perfect Postscript: Rules and Guidelines
While the postscript offers a degree of informality, there are still some guidelines to follow to ensure it serves its purpose effectively.
Keeping it Concise: The Beauty of Brevity
The primary rule of thumb is keep your postscript short and sweet. A lengthy P.S. defeats its purpose, making it seem like the afterthought was, in fact, a crucial part of the message. Aim for a sentence or two, maybe three at most. If you have a lot to say, consider incorporating it into the main body of the letter.
Placement Matters: Where Does Your P.S. Belong?
The postscript always comes after your signature. It’s literally “written after” the rest of the letter. The convention is to place it immediately beneath your closing.
The Tone and Style: Matching the Letter’s Vibe
The tone of your postscript should generally align with the tone of your letter. If you’ve written a formal business letter, your P.S. should maintain that formality. Conversely, if you’re writing a casual letter to a friend, you have more leeway to be playful or personal.
Strategic Postscript Usage: Different Purposes, Different Approaches
Postscripts can serve a variety of purposes. Understanding these different applications will help you wield the P.S. with precision.
Reinforcing a Key Point: The Subtle Reminder
Use the postscript to reiterate a crucial point from your letter, especially if you want to ensure the reader doesn’t miss it. For example, if you’re requesting a favor, your P.S. might be: P.S. I’m truly grateful for your consideration of this matter.
Adding a Personal Touch: Connecting with the Reader
The postscript is a great place to add a personal element, especially in less formal letters. This can be a brief comment, a shared memory, or a warm wish. For example: P.S. I can’t wait to hear about your trip to Italy!
Offering Additional Information: The Helpful Clarification
Sometimes, you realize you’ve forgotten something. The postscript provides a neat solution. This is particularly useful if the information is important but not central to the main message. For instance: P.S. The meeting has been rescheduled for Tuesday at 2 PM.
Injecting Humor or Surprise: The Element of Delight
A well-placed postscript can be surprisingly effective in adding a touch of humor or even a bit of surprise. This works best in more casual correspondence. For example: P.S. I almost forgot – did you see that ridiculous hat?
Avoiding Common Postscript Mistakes: Pitfalls to Sidestep
Even seasoned letter writers can make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.
Overusing the P.S.: Less is More
Don’t overuse postscripts. A letter with multiple P.S. sections can appear disorganized and unprofessional. Use them sparingly for maximum impact.
Including Irrelevant Information: Staying on Point
Keep your postscript relevant to the overall message. Avoid adding random thoughts or information that doesn’t connect to the letter’s purpose.
Using a P.S. to Replace a Main Point: Integrate, Don’t Detach
If something is truly vital, don’t bury it in the postscript. Incorporate it into the body of the letter for emphasis.
Ignoring Grammar and Spelling: Polished Presentation
Just like the main body of your letter, your postscript deserves attention to detail. Proofread carefully for grammatical errors and typos.
Postscript Examples: Real-World Applications
Let’s look at some practical examples to illustrate how to use postscripts effectively.
Business Letter Example: Clarity and Reinforcement
Imagine you’re writing a business letter to a potential client. The main body of the letter outlines your services and their benefits. Your P.S. might read: P.S. Please feel free to contact me with any questions. I look forward to the possibility of working with you.
Personal Letter Example: Connection and Warmth
If you are writing a letter to a friend you could add: P.S. Remember that hilarious story from our trip last year?
Postscript Alternatives: Other Ways to Enhance Your Letter
While the postscript is a classic, other techniques can enhance your letter writing.
Using a “Note”: A Gentle Approach
If you want to add a brief thought that isn’t quite a postscript, consider using “Note:” at the beginning. This feels slightly less emphatic than a P.S.
Incorporating the Thought Directly: The Seamless Integration
Sometimes, the best approach is to simply weave your extra thought into the body of your letter. This is especially effective if the information is relevant and important.
Postscript in the Digital Age: Adapting to Modern Communication
The principles of the postscript translate well to email and other digital communication. While the format might be slightly different, the underlying goal remains the same: to add a final thought, emphasize a point, or inject personality.
Frequently Asked Questions about Postscripts
Here are some frequently asked questions about postscripts:
In a business context, should I always use a P.S.? Not necessarily. Use them strategically when they add value, not as a default.
Can I use multiple postscripts? It’s generally best to avoid multiple postscripts. If you have several points, consider rewriting the letter to incorporate them.
How do I format a P.S. in an email? The formatting is similar to a physical letter – place it after your closing and signature.
Is a P.S. considered unprofessional? No, not if used correctly. It can actually add a personal touch.
Should I use a P.S. to apologize? It depends on the situation. Sometimes, a simple apology within the body of the letter is more effective.
Conclusion: The Enduring Value of the Postscript
The postscript, despite its seemingly minor role, is a powerful tool in the art of letter writing. By understanding its purpose, mastering its guidelines, and avoiding common mistakes, you can use the P.S. to enhance your communication, strengthen your connections, and leave a lasting impression. From reinforcing a key point to adding a touch of humor, the postscript allows you to add that extra layer of thought and personality. Embrace the power of the P.S. and watch your letters transform!