Editing and proofreading happen at different stages. Editing improves the manuscript; proofreading catches remaining surface errors after the content and layout are close to final.
Developmental editing
This examines the big picture: structure, pacing, plot, character development, argument, organization and reader experience. It is most useful before sentence-level polishing.
Copyediting
Copyediting improves grammar, clarity, consistency, tone and style. It can also identify factual inconsistencies or unclear passages while preserving the author’s voice.
Proofreading
Proofreading is the final quality check for spelling, punctuation, formatting inconsistencies and layout errors. It should not replace a deeper edit when the manuscript still has structural problems.
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