What’s the difference between developmental editing, copyediting and proofreading?

Hand holding a red pen over a blank spiral notebook on a wooden surface, suggesting a mood of contemplation or creativity.

When you're ready to polish your manuscript, choosing the right type of editing can feel overwhelming. Do you need developmental editing, copyediting, or just a final proofread? What's the difference? Each stage plays a vital role in shaping your book and ensuring it's the best it can be before publication.

In this post, I’ll walk you through the three main types of editing, how they differ, and which might be right for you depending on where you are in your writing journey.

Developmental editing

Focus: Structure, content, and big-picture elements

Developmental editing (sometimes called structural or substantive editing) is the first and most in-depth stage of editing. It's all about looking at the big picture and helping shape your manuscript into a cohesive, compelling piece of work.

In fiction, this might involve:

Strengthening plot, pacing, and narrative flow
Developing characters and dialogue
Clarifying themes and emotional impact

In non-fiction, a developmental edit might include:

Organising chapters and ideas logically
Ensuring clarity and purpose
Identifying gaps in information or argument

You’ll usually receive a detailed editorial report, alongside in-text comments, to guide your revisions. It’s a collaborative process and often the most transformative stage of editing.

Copyediting

Focus: Clarity, consistency, and readability

Once the structure and content are solid, it’s time for a line-level review. Copyediting focuses on refining your language without altering your voice. It improves readability and ensures consistency throughout your manuscript.

A copyedit includes:

Correcting grammar, punctuation, and spelling
Improving sentence structure and word choice
Ensuring consistency in tone, style, and formatting
Adhering to style guides (e.g. Chicago Manual of Style)

This is the stage where your writing really starts to shine. It's particularly helpful for self-publishing authors or those preparing to submit to agents or publishers.

Proofreading

Focus: Surface-level errors and final polish

Proofreading is the last step before publication or submission. It comes after all editing is complete and focuses purely on surface-level issues.

A proofread includes:

Spelling, grammar, and punctuation checks
Catching typos and formatting issues
Ensuring consistency in headings, spacing, and layout

This stage is ideal for catching those small, niggling errors that can slip through the cracks. Even professionally edited manuscripts benefit from a final proofread—it's your last line of defence.

Which service do you need?

If you're not sure where your manuscript is in the process, here’s a quick guide:

Just finished your first or second draft? Start with a developmental edit.
Happy with the story/content but want to refine your writing? Copyediting is the way to go.
Ready to publish or submit? Book a final proofread.

Need help deciding?

If you're still unsure which service is right for you, I'm always happy to take a look at a short sample and offer guidance. Visit my book editing services page to learn more or get in touch for a personalised quote.

Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash