In English writing, the abbreviation PS stands for postscript, which means “written after.” It is used when the writer wants to add extra information at the end of a letter, email, or message. For students, knowing the usage and meaning of PS is important, because it is often seen in both formal and informal communication. In daily life, it allows you to express additional thoughts when writing to friends, teachers, or others. So, let’s check it out!

What Is the Full Meaning of PS?
How to Use PS in Letters and Emails
When to Use PS with Examples
Tips for Using PS in Your Writing
Frequently Asked Questions on PS Meaning

What Is the Full Meaning of PS?

The full meaning of "PS" is postscript. PS is a further thought that was incorporated into a document or letter after writing and signing the document or letter, probably at the end.

A postscript can be a paragraph, sentence or sometimes many paragraphs are added, often incidental and hastily after signing a letter or the main body of a book or essay.

The term postscript derives from the Latin term “post scriptum,” implying “written after”

Postscript is a method of adding something when the writer has forgotten to include it in the body of the letter. It may also be used to connect a statement to a written text. For an author who wishes to elaborate on something in a letter without interference with the message flow.

How to Use PS in Letters and Emails

Knowing how to use PS meaning and usage correctly can make your writing more effective. Follow standard grammar rules to keep your message clear.

Always write PS or P.S. in capitals.
Place PS after the main content and your signature.
Use a colon or period after PS; either “PS:” or “P.S.” is correct.
In formal writing, keep your PS short and relevant.
In emails, write PS after your main closing but before your automated signature, if possible.
You may add more notes as PPS (post-postscript), but avoid overusing them in formal writing.

When to Use PS with Examples

A postscript, or PS, was originally used when letter writing by hand or with a typewriter. If someone forgot to include something in their letter or had an update, they would add this information using a postscript rather than rewrite or retype everything.

This practice is also used in informal emails to add additional comments or information. You don’t always need to include a PS in an email or letter; however, it might be useful in the following situations.

Adding forgotten information

If you remember something important after finishing your letter or email, you can add it as a PS instead of rewriting the whole text.

Emphasising a key point

Writers often use PS to highlight something they want the reader to remember, such as an important date or instruction.

Personal touches

In personal letters, PS can make the writing feel warmer or more natural, as though you are speaking directly to the reader.

Examples

Example 1:

Dear Anna,

Thank you for helping me with my project last week. I learned a lot from your ideas.

PS: Don’t forget, the next group meeting is on Monday.

Example 2:

Dear Students,

Please submit your essays by Friday. Late work will not be accepted.

PS: Bring an extra copy for peer review.

Example 3:

Hi Sam,

I enjoyed our trip to the museum yesterday.

PS: I found the brochure you left in my bag, it was very helpful.

Tips for Using PS in Your Writing

Use PS for important reminders or last-minute information.
In exams, placing PS in a letter format shows awareness of English conventions.
Avoid writing lengthy messages as PS; keep it brief and to the point.
Check spelling and punctuation for a good impression.
Only use multiple PS (PPS, PPPS) if absolutely needed.

If you are interested in learning more about such abbreviations, don’t forget to check out our detailed guides on the Full Form of NVM, BFF, FYI and more! These will help you expand your knowledge of commonly used acronyms and make your communication skills even stronger.

Frequently Asked Questions on PS Meaning

Q1. What does PS mean in chat?

Answer: In chat, PS is the abbreviation for postscript, a Latin term meaning "written after". It's used to add an afterthought, a forgotten detail, a personal note, or an extra emphasis after the main message or signature. While less common now with instant editing, PS is still used in digital communication to convey something you want to add after you've finished your initial thought.

Q2. How to use PS in social media?

Answer: “PS” stands for “PostScript” in social media, much like “PS” does in written communication. “PS” is a way to add information to the message that initially forgot to write. “PS” is used in instant messages as an alternative to “by the way”.

Q3. What does ps mean in an email?

Answer: In an email, PS stands for postscript, a Latin term meaning "written after". While PS originated from handwritten letters where editing was difficult, it is still used in emails to emphasise a point, add a reminder, or include a final call to action.

Q4. What does ps in letters mean?

Answer: In letters, "PS" is a common abbreviation for postscript, derived from the Latin phrase "post scriptum," which means "written after". It is used to add a forgotten thought or extra information after the main message and signature of the letter or email, serving to emphasise a point or convey a friendly, or even humorous, addition.

Q5. When can I use PS?

Answer: Use "PS" (or "P.S.") to add a forgotten detail, afterthought, or extra information after the main message or signature in a letter, email, or chat. It serves as a final, brief note to emphasise a point, include a reminder, add a personal touch, or provide a call to action.

Q6. Is PS formal or informal?

Answer: Using PS is appropriate in formal and informal emails. But ensure that the tone of your PS matches what preceded it. Also, stick to proper email writing etiquette. Avoid using your PS as an afterthought.

Q7. Can I use PS in captions?

Answer: Back in the day, people used PS to add forgotten details, afterthoughts, or a final heartfelt message after signing off. Fast forward to the digital age, and PS has found a new home in our Instagram captions. Just like those handwritten letters, a PS on Instagram allows you to add a little extra something to your post.

Q8. What is the full form of PS in Gen Z?

Answer: In Gen Z communication, "PS" retains its traditional meaning of postscript, an added note or afterthought after the main message. It's used to include forgotten information, a personal message, or to emphasise a point in casual conversations, texts, and social media, similar to its use in letters and emails for older generations.