The phrase "smooths out some rough edges" means to make something better by removing imperfections or difficulties, often through minor adjustments. It is commonly used to describe improving a process, policy, product, or even personal traits by softening or refining the rough or problematic parts to create a more polished or pleasant outcome.

For example, "smoothing out the rough edges" of a customer service policy means making small improvements so that the policy works more effectively and is more user-friendly. The phrase is metaphorical, likening rough edges to imperfections that need to be smoothed or sanded away.

In a crossword context, the answer to the clue "Smooths out some rough edges" is "SANDS," referencing the literal action of sanding to smooth rough surfaces.