Spencer Lanoue
When you think you've wrapped up your letter or email and then realize there's just one more thing to say, it's time to add a postscript. A postscript, or P.S., is that little afterthought we tack on at the end of our correspondence. It’s a handy tool to emphasize an important point or to inject a touch of personality. In this post, we'll explore the art of writing an effective postscript, with tips, examples, and a bit of history for good measure. So, let's dive right into the world of postscripts and discover how they can enhance your writing.
What Is a Postscript and Why Use It?
The postscript is a time-honored tradition in letter writing, originating from the days when handwritten letters were the norm. Back then, if you forgot to include something in your letter, you'd simply add it at the end, prefaced by "P.S." This tradition continues in digital communication. It often serves as a way to highlight a key message or add a personal touch.
Postscripts can be used for various purposes, such as:
- Emphasizing a Key Point: If there's something you want to ensure stands out, a postscript is an excellent way to do it. For example, "P.S. Don't forget to RSVP by Friday!"
- Adding Humor or Personality: A lighthearted remark can leave a lasting impression. Think, "P.S. I promise not to sing at the next meeting!"
- Including Additional Information: If you remember something important after the main content, the postscript is your friend. For example, "P.S. By the way, the meeting has been moved to 3 PM."
- Marketing and Sales: In business communication, a postscript can serve to reinforce a call to action or provide a limited-time offer. "P.S. Order now and receive a 10% discount!"
Interestingly, the postscript can be a strategic tool in both personal and professional writing. It helps ensure your message is memorable and impactful.
Crafting the Perfect Postscript
Creating a compelling postscript involves more than just tacking on an extra sentence. Here are some tips to make sure your postscript serves its purpose:
Keep It Short and Sweet
Postscripts should be brief and to the point. This isn't the place for lengthy explanations or detailed instructions. Aim for a sentence or two that captures the essence of what you want to convey.
Make It Relevant
Your postscript should relate to the main content of your letter or email. Avoid introducing entirely new topics that might confuse the reader. Instead, use the postscript to reinforce or add to the existing message.
Add a Personal Touch
A well-placed personal remark can humanize your message and strengthen your connection with the reader. Whether it's a joke, a friendly reminder, or a heartfelt note, make sure it aligns with your overall tone.
Use It to Highlight a Call to Action
If your letter or email includes a call to action, reiterate it in the postscript. This gives it extra emphasis and increases the likelihood of a response. For instance, "P.S. Remember to sign up for the newsletter to stay updated!"
Examples of Effective Postscripts
Sometimes, seeing examples can spark inspiration. Here are a few sample postscripts to get your creative juices flowing:
Dear Jane,
Thank you for considering our proposal. We look forward to the opportunity to work together and achieve great results.
Best regards,
John
P.S. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. We’re here to help!
Hi Team,
Great work on the project! I’m impressed with the dedication and creativity everyone has shown.
Cheers,
Amanda
P.S. Let’s celebrate with pizza on Friday. My treat!
Hello Alex,
I appreciate your feedback on the draft. I’ll make the necessary changes.
Thanks,
Sara
P.S. I found that article you mentioned. It was an interesting read!
Using Postscripts in Business Communication
In the business world, postscripts can be a powerful tool for marketing and sales. They often capture attention because they're an unexpected addition at the end of a message. Here are some ways to use postscripts in a business context:
Reinforce a Call to Action
If your email or letter includes a call to action, a postscript can help reinforce it. This could be a reminder to register for an event, complete a survey, or make a purchase. Here's how you might frame it:
P.S. Don’t miss out on our early bird registration discount. Sign up today!
Highlight a Special Offer
Postscripts are an excellent way to draw attention to special offers or promotions. By placing them at the end of your message, you ensure they're one of the last things the reader sees.
P.S. Order in the next 24 hours and receive a 15% discount!
Express Gratitude
Expressing gratitude in a postscript can leave a positive impression. Whether it's thanking a client for their business or acknowledging a colleague's efforts, a simple "thank you" goes a long way.
P.S. Thank you for your continued support and partnership.
A Bit of History: The Origins of P.S.
The use of P.S. dates back to the days of handwritten letters, long before the digital communication era. When letter writers realized they had forgotten to include something important, they would add it at the end of their message, preceded by "P.S." This abbreviation stands for the Latin phrase "post scriptum," meaning "written after."
In those days, rewriting a letter wasn't practical, so the postscript served as a convenient solution. While technology has evolved, the postscript remains a beloved element of both personal and professional writing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While postscripts can be a valuable addition to your communication, there are some common pitfalls to avoid:
Going Overboard
Keep your postscript concise. A lengthy or rambling postscript can detract from your main message and confuse your reader. Stick to one or two key points.
Introducing New Information
A postscript should complement your main message, not introduce entirely new topics. If you find yourself adding a substantial amount of new information, consider revising the original content to include it.
Overusing Humor
While humor can be a great way to connect with your reader, it's essential to strike the right balance. Avoid jokes or comments that might be misunderstood or deemed unprofessional.
Neglecting the Main Content
Ensure your main message is complete and coherent before adding a postscript. Relying too heavily on the postscript can make your writing feel disorganized.
Postscripts in Digital Communication
In the digital age, postscripts have found a new home in emails and other forms of online correspondence. While their role has evolved, they remain a powerful tool for enhancing communication.
In emails, postscripts can be used to:
- Encourage Action: Reinforce a call to action by restating it in the postscript. This can drive engagement and responses.
- Convey Personality: Injecting personality into your emails can strengthen your connection with the recipient. A friendly or humorous postscript can achieve this.
- Provide Additional Information: If you remember something after hitting "send," a postscript can be a quick way to include it.
It's worth noting that while postscripts are effective in emails, they should be used judiciously. Ensure they serve a clear purpose and add value to the overall message.
Making Postscripts Work for You
To make the most of postscripts in your writing, consider these practical tips:
Know Your Audience
Tailor your postscript to suit the tone and style of your communication. A lighthearted remark might be appropriate in a personal email, while a more formal tone is needed in professional correspondence.
Be Consistent
Maintain consistency in your writing style. If your main message is formal, a casual or humorous postscript might feel out of place. Ensure the postscript aligns with the overall tone.
Experiment and Learn
Postscripts offer an opportunity for experimentation. Try different approaches to see what resonates with your audience. Monitor responses and adjust your strategy accordingly.
Embrace Creativity
Don't be afraid to get creative with your postscript. Whether it's a clever pun, a thought-provoking question, or a unique observation, let your creativity shine.
Final Thoughts
Postscripts may be a small part of your writing, but they can have a big impact when used effectively. Whether you're emphasizing a point, adding a personal touch, or highlighting a call to action, the postscript is a versatile tool in your writing arsenal. And if you want to enhance your writing process and create polished documents faster, consider using Spell. Our AI document editor streamlines the writing process, helping you craft high-quality documents in no time. Happy writing!
