Start here · New to Copilot
Your first week with Copilot
New to Copilot? These five steps take about 15 minutes a day and cover the basics every Copilot user needs. Check them off as you go.
For EveryoneTime About 15 minutes a dayLevel Beginner
Your first five days
Do one step a day, or all five in one sitting. Mark each one done as you go.
Your progress
{{count}} of {{total}} steps complete
The four parts of a good prompt
Put them together and Copilot knows exactly what you need.
A good prompt, in one sentence
GoalSummarize the project update
Contextfor my manager, who missed the meeting,
Detailsin five short bullet points with any deadlines,
Datausing /[project file].
Words you will hear
A quick guide to the Copilot vocabulary.
Copilot ChatThe chat experience you can use with your work account. It can search the web and use files you add.
Microsoft 365 CopilotThe paid license that brings Copilot into Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and Teams, and lets it use your work data.
Work IQThe setting that lets Copilot use your emails, files, chats and meetings. It only sees what you already have permission to open.
PromptWhat you type or say to Copilot. Clear prompts get better results.
AgentA version of Copilot set up for one job, like research or answering policy questions.
CoworkA Copilot mode that carries out longer, multi-step tasks for you in the background.
Common questions
What is the difference between Copilot Chat and Microsoft 365 Copilot?
Copilot Chat is available with your work account and can use the web and files you add. With a Microsoft 365 Copilot license, Copilot also works inside your apps and can use your work emails, files, chats and meetings through Work IQ.
Is my work data safe?
When you are signed in with your work account, Copilot only uses content you already have permission to see, and it follows your organization's security settings. If you ever see something you should not, tell your IT team.
Will Copilot always be right?
No. Copilot can make mistakes, especially with numbers, names and dates. Always check before you share or act on what it gives you.
Where can I get help?
Start with your IT team or your organization's AI champions. For team training, workshops or office hours, reach out through this site.
Go further
Current as of November 2026. Features depend on your license and your organization's settings. centerofAIExcellence.com