Learning Technology Index

Microsoft Copilot*

AI Text Generator

What is it?

Microsoft Copilot is an artificial intelligence chatbot tool powered by a language model that generates realtime context-aware answers in text (and image) format to human prompt inputs. It enhances productivity and assist with a wide range of tasks across Microsoft 365 applications.

What is its purpose?

Microsoft Copilot is designed to enhance productivity by providing intelligent, real-time assistance across Microsoft 365 applications. Using AI, it helps users quickly generate content, answer questions, and analyze data, all through natural language prompts. Whether you’re drafting documents, managing emails, or working with spreadsheets, Copilot streamlines tasks and provides valuable insights, saving time and improving efficiency. It’s a tool meant to support and simplify workflows, allowing users to focus more on higher-level tasks within the familiar Microsoft environment.

How do I use it?

You can access Microsoft Copilot through Microsoft 365 apps like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote by looking for the Copilot feature within these apps. You can also access Copilot Chat through the web at Microsoft365.com/copilot.

You use it by simply typing a text prompt in form of a queston or request into the search bar in the pop-up after launching the copilot feature in any microsoft app or at the base of the copilot web landing page. The search bar is also speech-to-text enabled.

Why would I use it?

Document Drafting: With Copilot, you can quickly draft documents, reports, or emails. Just describe what you need, and it generates a first draft for you to refine.

Data Analysis: In Excel, Copilot assists with data analysis, creates complex formulas, generates charts, and offers insights based on your data.

Presentation Design: Copilot helps you create visually appealing PowerPoint presentations by suggesting layouts, designs, and even generating content for your slides.

Inbox Management: In Outlook, Copilot helps manage your emails more efficiently. It can prioritize important messages, draft responses, and assist with scheduling meetings.

Note Organization: In OneNote, Copilot helps organize your notes, create to-do lists, and summarize key points from meetings or lectures.

Learning and Research: Copilot is a useful tool for quick research and learning, summarizing articles, explaining concepts, and helping you understand complex topics.

Usage considerations

Special consideration should be given to the content of the text and images for privacy and copyright considerations.

Quick Facts
Category
AI Tools
Rating Level 
Website
Microsoft Copilot*
Last Modified
16 June 2025
Created
31 January 2025
License Available 
No
Security Concerns
No
Technical Support 
Vendor
Platform(s) 
Web browser, Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android

Ratings Information

CITL Rating

Select any category below for details about the criteria for each rating.

Functionality: ★★★
Scale:
Not Applicable.
Ease of Use:★★★
Works Well.
Tech Support/Help Availability (for Instructors):★★☆
Minor Concerns.
Tech Support/Help Availability (for Students):★★☆
Minor Concerns.
Hypermediality :★★★
Works Well.
Accessibility: ★★★
Accessibility Standards:★★★
Works Well.
User-focused participation:★★★
Works Well.
Required Equipment:★★★
Works Well.
Technical: ★★★
Integration/Embedding within a Learning Management System (LMS) :★★★
Works Well.
Operating Systems:★★★
Works Well.
Web Browser:★★★
Works Well.
Additional Technical Requirements:★★★
Works Well.
Mobile Design: ★★☆
Access:★★★
Works Well.
Functionality:★★★
Works Well.
Offline Access:★☆☆
Serious Concerns.
Usage and Account Set Up: ★★★
Sign Up/Sign In:★★★
Works Well.
Cost of Use:★★☆
Minor Concerns.
Archiving, Saving, and Exporting Data :★★★
Works Well.
Data Privacy and Ownership:
Not Applicable.
Social Presence: ★★★
Collaboration :★★★
Works Well.
User Accountability:
Not Applicable.
Diffusion:★★☆
Minor Concerns.
Teaching Presence: ★★★
Facilitation:
Not Applicable.
Customization:★★★
Works Well.
Learning Analytics:
Not Applicable.
Cognitive Presence: ★★☆
Enhancement of Cognitive Task(s):★★★
Works Well.
Higher Order Thinking:★☆☆
Serious Concerns.
Feedback on Learning:★☆☆
Serious Concerns.

Security and Privacy

There are currently no security or privacy concerns for this tool.