Microsoft 365 Copilot Tutorial – Beginner’s Guide (2025)

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide to using Microsoft 365 Copilot, designed for both beginners and experienced users. Whether you're looking to enhance your productivity with AI features or simply familiarize yourself with the 2025 version of Copilot, this step-by-step guide will cover everything from setup to practical applications within popular Microsoft Office apps.

Step 1: Accessing Microsoft 365 Copilot

• Web, Desktop, and Mobile Access: Start by accessing Microsoft 365 Copilot through your preferred platform, whether it’s the web, desktop application, or mobile app.
• Sign In: Use your Microsoft 365 commercial account credentials to sign in.
• Familiarize with the Interface: Take a moment to explore the layout and features available across different platforms.

Step 2: Navigating the Apps Section

• Locate the Apps Section: Find the "Apps" section in the Copilot interface.
• Pinning Office Apps: Pin your frequently used Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.) for easy access.
  • Right-click on the app icon and select "Pin to Favorites."

Step 3: Understanding Copilot Chat Basics

• Introduction to Copilot Chat: This feature allows you to interact with Copilot using natural language.
• Initiating a Chat: Click on the Copilot Chat icon to start a conversation.
• Sample Prompts: Use prompts like:
  • “Create a summary of my last meeting.”
  • “Generate a report based on my sales data.”

Step 4: Creating Images with AI

• Image Generation: Use the "Create with AI" feature to generate images.
• How to Create:
  • Click on the appropriate section within Copilot.
  • Enter a description of the image you want.
  • Review and select from the generated options.

Step 5: Exploring Memory and Custom Instructions

• Memory Feature: Understand how Copilot remembers your preferences and past interactions.
• Setting Custom Instructions:
  • Go to settings and enter specific preferences or instructions that Copilot should follow during chats or tasks.
• Note: This feature may not be fully available for EDU faculty and staff yet.

Step 6: Utilizing Copilot Chat in Office Apps

• Word: Use Copilot to draft documents by providing prompts like “Write an introduction for a project proposal.”
• Excel: Ask Copilot to analyze data or create charts by saying “Generate a pivot table from this dataset.”
• PowerPoint: Request assistance in creating presentations with prompts such as “Design a presentation about marketing strategies.”

Step 7: Searching and Managing Files

• File Search: Use the search functionality to locate files quickly.
• File Management: Learn to organize your files within the Copilot interface for better accessibility.

Step 8: Working with Copilot Pages

• Creating Pages: Use Copilot to generate new pages for projects or documents.
• Customizing Content: Add and arrange content as needed, utilizing AI suggestions.

Step 9: Exploring the Create Module

• Using the Create Module: Discover how to leverage this feature to initiate various tasks and projects.
• Examples of Use: Task prompts might include “Create a budget spreadsheet” or “Draft an email to the team.”

Step 10: Understanding Agents

• What are Agents?: Agents can assist you in specific tasks within Copilot.
• How to Use Agents: Invoke agents by specifying what you need help with, such as “Find an agent for project management.”

Conclusion

Microsoft 365 Copilot offers powerful tools to enhance productivity across various applications. By following this guide, you can effectively utilize its features, such as Copilot Chat, image creation, and task management. As you explore Copilot, consider joining the Microsoft 365 Insider program to stay updated on the latest features. Ready to boost your productivity? Start experimenting with Copilot today!