Sometimes referred to as proofreading, copy editing is a process by which the editor ensures that written text is correct in terms of spelling, punctuation, and formatting while also ensuring that the ideas the writer wishes to portray are clear, and easy to understand, and flow well. Copy editing services can be obtained for book manuscripts and blog posts.

Developmental editing, or substantive editing, involves feedback on the overall big picture of a novel, nonfiction book, or other writing. A developmental editor will critique structural elements like the plot, characters, theme, and organization of ideas, and in non-fiction, the order of chapters and concepts presented.