What is proofreading in the context of writing?

Proofreading is the stage in the writing process where the focus is on ensuring grammatical correctness, punctuation, spelling, and overall readability of the text. At this point, a writer reviews the completed draft to identify and correct any errors that may have been overlooked during earlier stages, such as drafting or revising. This meticulous attention to detail helps polish the writing and prepare it for publication or submission, making it clear and professional.

The initial drafting phase involves creating the first version of the text without concern for perfection, which is not the focus of proofreading. Generating new ideas relates to brainstorming and conceptualizing content, while revising arguments typically involves examining the structure and clarity of the ideas presented rather than merely correcting surface-level errors. Therefore, proofreading stands out as the final phase that emphasizes accuracy in writing.