The difference between In order and Stepwise

When used as adjectives, in order means in a sequence, whereas stepwise means one (small) step or stage at a time.

Stepwise is also adverb with the meaning: one step or stage at a time.

check bellow for the other definitions of In order and Stepwise

In order as an adjective:

In a sequence.

Examples:

"Place the cards in order by color, then by number."
In order as an adjective:

Ready, prepared; orderly; tidy.

Examples:

"I wish I could get my desk in order."

"His material is in order for the presentation."
In order as an adjective (idiomatic, formal):

In accordance with the procedural rules governing formal meetings of a deliberative body.
In order as an adjective (idiomatic):

Appropriate, worthwhile.

Examples:

"Now that we have finally finished, I think a celebration is in order."

In order as an adverb (not comparable, idiomatic, with ''to''):

Examples:

"She stood in order to see over the crowd.'' / ''She stood to see over the crowd."
In order as an adverb (not comparable, idiomatic, US, with "for"):

Examples:

"She stood in order for her husband to see her.'' / ''She stood for her husband to see her."
In order as an adverb (comparable):

In sequence.

Examples:

"They sang in order, ending with a basso profundo."

Stepwise as an adjective:

One (small) step or stage at a time; gradual; piecemeal