Proofreading vs copyediting: which does your document need?

What each level of editing changes, with examples, so you order the right one.

Editing comes in levels. The deeper the level, the more an editor changes. Ordering the right one saves money and avoids surprises.

The final check. Errors in spelling, grammar, punctuation and consistency are corrected; your sentences stay as they are.

Everything in a proofread, plus clarity and flow: awkward sentences are reworded and word choice is tightened, keeping your meaning.

The big picture: structure, argument, pace and what readers will make of it. Comments rather than line-by-line corrections.

The same sentence at each level

Proofread: Due to the fact that the results were unclear, it is important to note that a further study was carried out in order to confirm them.
Copyedited: Because the results were unclear, a further study was carried out to confirm them.
Developmental comment: Consider moving the follow-up study into your methods section, so readers know about it before they reach the results.

If your document…	Choose
is finished and reads well, but needs a final check	Proofreading
is a solid draft that reads awkwardly in places	Copyediting
is written in your second language	Copyediting
is a book or long report you are not sure works yet	Manuscript evaluation or developmental editing
is assessed academic work	Proofreading, unless your institution allows more

Will proofreading make my writing sound better?

Only by removing errors. If you want smoother sentences, choose copyediting.

Can I order proofreading after copyediting?

Yes. Many authors copyedit a draft, revise it, then proofread the final version.

Does a deeper edit change my meaning?

No. An editor clarifies what you mean; where a change might alter it, they leave a comment instead.

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