What is the difference between tribulation due to sin and tribulation for elevating ranks, and does sin get forgiven because of it?

The texts from the Quran and Sunnah indicate that the affliction befalling a believer may be an expiation for their sins, or an elevation of their ranks and an increase in their good deeds, or a trial for them, distinguishing the truthful from the hypocrite. And there is no way for the son of Adam to ascertain with certainty the reason for his affliction, as this is part of the unseen, known only to Allah.