Copyediting is not proofreading, and vice versa. Copyediting improves clarity, flow, word choice, and verifies facts. Source citations are also checked. During copyediting an editor may add or delete words, sentences, even paragraphs, or make suggestions depending on the level of editing desired by the author. Learn more about levels of copyediting on our Services page.
Proofreading involves checking for errors in grammar, spelling, punctuation, and typography that were not caught in copyediting. During proofreading an editor does not add or delete words, sentences, paragraphs, or make suggestions. Proofreading is the final stage of the editing process and focuses on superficial errors. Find out more about proofreading here.