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Understanding Microsoft Copilot and How You Can Use It

Microsoft is transforming its tools with AI, and Microsoft Copilot is the latest innovation. Integrated into Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, Copilot helps you work smarter by automating tasks, creating content, and analyzing data. This guide explains what Copilot is, its features, and how to use it to boost productivity in your daily work.

What is Microsoft Copilot?

Microsoft Copilot is an AI-powered tool that can be used within Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams apps in Microsoft 365. It uses robust language models, such as the one behind ChatGPT, and connects them with your work content in the Graph. This means Copilot can help you with sensible suggestions, create content, review information, and automate parts of your usual work tools.

Copilot is seamlessly integrated into the apps you use all the time. It assists you in drafting documents, creating presentations, summarizing data, and more—saving you time and simplifying your workflow.

How Does Microsoft Copilot Work?

Microsoft Copilot works by combining:

When you request something from Copilot—like “summarize this meeting” or “create a sales report”—it accesses data from your files, chats, and emails and uses AI to generate a relevant, accurate result right within the app you’re using.

What Can You Do With Microsoft Copilot?

Let’s explore what Microsoft Copilot can help you with in each app.

Copilot in Word

In Microsoft Word, Copilot can:

This means you can go from a blank page to a full article in minutes.

Copilot in Excel

In Excel, Copilot can:

Even if you’re not an Excel expert, Copilot helps you extract value from your data quickly.

Copilot in PowerPoint

In PowerPoint, Copilot can:

You no longer have to spend hours building slides. Copilot speeds up the process while keeping things professional.

Copilot in Outlook

In Outlook, Copilot helps you:

If you handle many emails daily, this feature saves time and reduces stress.

Copilot in Teams

Inside Microsoft Teams, Copilot can:

It’s like having a smart assistant in every meeting.

How to Access Microsoft Copilot

Microsoft Copilot is not enabled by default for everyone. If you’re looking to take advantage of this powerful AI tool, here’s what you need to know to get started.

Step 1: Get the Right Microsoft 365 Plan

Copilot is specifically available for Microsoft 365 Enterprise users. Unfortunately, it’s not included in basic, personal, or family plans, so having the right subscription is key. To access Copilot, you need one of the following:

This add-on license is an extra feature that extends the functionality of your existing subscription. Note that in most cases, your IT admin or company will need to purchase and activate the Copilot license for your account. Without this step, you won’t be able to use Copilot, even if you have the right plan.

Step 2: Make Sure Your Apps Are Updated

Copilot only works seamlessly with the latest versions of Microsoft 365 apps, so ensuring your apps are up to date is crucial. Here’s what you need to check:

To manually check for updates, open any Office app on your desktop, click File > Account > Update Options, and select Update Now. If updates are available, install them immediately. Staying updated ensures you have access to all the latest features and compatibility improvements Copilot requires to function effectively.

Step 3: Sign In With Your Work Account

Copilot is designed to work with work or school accounts specifically tied to Microsoft 365 Enterprise. This means a personal Microsoft account or a general email won’t work. Here’s what you need to do:

If you’re unsure whether your account is eligible or your access has been set up correctly, reach out to your IT administrator. They can confirm if the required licenses and permissions are active on your account.

Is Microsoft Copilot Free?

No, Copilot is not free. It is available as an add-on to Microsoft 365 enterprise plans. Pricing may vary by region and organization, but it is a premium feature designed for business users.

For individuals or small businesses, Microsoft has not yet announced a full rollout to personal accounts. However, this may change in the future.

Benefits of Using Microsoft Copilot

Using Copilot in your daily tasks comes with many advantages:

It’s like having a smart colleague who never takes a break.

Who Should Use Microsoft Copilot?

Microsoft Copilot is especially useful for:

Whether you’re a student, team leader, or executive, Copilot can make your work easier and faster.

Final Thoughts

Microsoft Copilot brings the power of AI directly into your favorite Office tools. From helping you write better to analyzing data or summarizing meetings, it changes how you work every day. If your workplace uses Microsoft 365 Enterprise, ask your IT team to activate Copilot for your account. With the right tools and access, you’ll get more done in less time—and with less stress. Microsoft Copilot is not just a new feature. It’s a smarter way to work.