You have probably noticed PS at the bottom of an email, a handwritten letter, or even a marketing message and wondered why it appears after everything else has already been said. While it may look like a small addition, it often becomes one of the most memorable parts of a message.

The meaning of what does PS mean is surprisingly simple, yet its purpose has evolved over time. Originally, writers used it when they remembered something after signing a letter. Today, PS has become a communication tool used to emphasize important details, add a personal touch, make readers smile, or encourage action.

You’re reading an email from your boss, receiving a birthday card, or browsing promotional emails, understanding how PS works can help you communicate more naturally and professionally.

What Does PS Mean? Meaning & Definition

The abbreviation PS means Postscript, a Latin derived term that literally translates to “written after.” It appears after the main body of a message and usually follows the writer’s signature in letters or the closing line in emails.

Today, PS is used far beyond traditional handwritten letters. You’ll frequently see it in:

• Emails
• Business correspondence
• Text messages
• Marketing emails
• Newsletters
• Social media captions
• Personal notes
• Greeting cards

Although PS originally served as a way to add forgotten information, modern writers often use it intentionally to draw attention to an important point.

Quick Meaning Table

Origin

The abbreviation PS comes from the Latin phrase:

Post Scriptum

• Post = After
• Scriptum = Written

Together, they mean “written after.”

Before computers and word processors existed, people wrote letters entirely by hand. If the writer remembered something after signing the letter, rewriting the whole page was inconvenient. Instead, they simply added a PS below the signature.

For example:

Best wishes,
Sarah

PS: I forgot to tell you that the meeting starts at 10 AM.

Over time, this writing habit became a standard part of personal and professional communication.

Popularity

Even though editing digital documents is incredibly easy today, PS remains widely used.

Its popularity continues because it naturally grabs attention. Studies in email marketing have shown that readers often notice the PS section almost immediately because it stands apart from the rest of the message.

You’ll commonly find PS in:

• Business emails
• Sales promotions
• Newsletters
• Personal letters
• Greeting cards
• Educational emails
• Customer support messages
• Social media announcements

Many marketers intentionally place discounts, deadlines, or reminders in the PS because readers frequently scan it before reading everything else.

How It Is Used

The purpose of PS depends on the situation.

To Add Forgotten Information

This is the original use.

Example:

PS: I forgot to send the attachment earlier.

To Highlight Important Information

Example:

PS: Registration closes tonight!

To Add a Personal Touch

Example:

PS: Tell your family I said hello!

To Encourage Action

Businesses often write:

PS: Don’t miss your 20% discount before midnight.

To Add Humor

Example:

PS: Yes, I really did eat the last slice of pizza. 🍕

In Digital Communication

Although editing is easy today, writers still intentionally use PS because it feels conversational and naturally attracts attention.

Examples

Friendly Examples

Here are everyday examples you might send to friends or family.

Professional Examples

These examples work well in business settings.

Funny Examples

Sometimes PS simply adds personality.

Comparison with Similar Terms

People often confuse PS with other abbreviations.

PS vs PPS

Example:

PS: I attached the document.

PPS: Congratulations on your promotion!

Alternate Meanings

Although Postscript is the most common meaning, PS can represent different things depending on the context.

How to Identify the Correct Meaning

Context makes the meaning clear.

For example:

I bought a new PS.

Here, PS probably means PlayStation.

Meanwhile:

PS: Thanks for your support.

Here, it clearly means Postscript.

Professional or Polite Alternatives

In formal writing, PS is perfectly acceptable, but sometimes integrating the information into the main message is even better.

Instead of:

PS: Please submit your report by Friday.

You could write:

• As a reminder, please submit your report by Friday.
• Please note that the report is due Friday.
• Kindly remember to submit the report before Friday.
• Additionally, the report should be submitted by Friday.
• Before we conclude, please remember the Friday deadline.

These alternatives may feel smoother in highly formal documents.

Common Mistakes

Many people misuse PS without realizing it.

1. Using Too Many Postscripts

Poor example:

PS…

PPS…

PPPS…

This can make writing look cluttered.

2. Including Important Information Only in the PS

Critical instructions should appear in the main message as well.

3. Forgetting Consistency

Choose one style:

• PS:
• P.S.

Avoid mixing both styles in the same document.

4. Using PS Before the Main Message

PS always comes after the main message.

5. Overusing It

Every email doesn’t need a PS. Use it only when it genuinely adds value.

Quick Tips

Follow these best practices when using PS:

• Use PS to emphasize one important point.
• Keep it short and clear.
• Make it relevant to the main message.
• Avoid multiple postscripts whenever possible.
• Match the tone to your audience.
• Use PS for reminders, appreciation, humor, or calls to action.
• Don’t rely on PS for critical information that readers must not miss.
• In business emails, keep the wording professional and concise.

FAQ

What does PS stand for?

PS stands for Postscript, meaning something written after the main message has been completed.

Why do people use PS in emails?

People use PS to highlight reminders, forgotten information, important announcements, or calls to action.

Is PS still used today?

Yes. It remains common in emails, newsletters, greeting cards, marketing campaigns, and personal messages.

Should PS come before or after the signature?

Traditionally, PS appears after the signature or closing line.

What is the difference between PS and PPS?

PS is the first additional note, while PPS is an additional note written after the PS.

Is it professional to use PS?

Yes. A concise and relevant PS can make professional emails more engaging, especially when emphasizing reminders or important details.

Can I use PS in text messages?

Absolutely. Many people use PS casually in texts and online conversations to add an extra thought after finishing their message.

Example:

PS: Don’t forget your charger!

Is “P.S.” or “PS” correct?

Both are correct.

• P.S. is the traditional punctuation style.
• PS is more common in modern digital communication.

Conclusion

The answer to what does PS mean is simple: it stands for Postscript, an additional note written after the main body of a message. Although it originated centuries ago when handwritten letters couldn’t easily be edited, PS continues to thrive in modern communication because it naturally draws attention to important reminders, personal thoughts, humorous comments, and calls to action. You’re writing a professional email, sending a friendly note, or creating marketing content, using PS thoughtfully can make your message more memorable. Keep it brief, relevant, and purposeful, and you’ll communicate more effectively in both personal and professional settings.

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Daniel Harris