A Guide to Using the COPILOT Function in Excel with Practical Examples

The Excel function =COPILOT() enables users to utilize natural language for data analysis and generation within a spreadsheet.
By inputting a prompt and optionally specifying a data range, Copilot can produce varied outputs, including summaries, classifications, and lists.
This function operates like any standard Excel formula, automatically updating with changes in data, and is currently accessible in preview mode for Microsoft 365 commercial users.

Microsoft has introduced a groundbreaking AI-enhanced formula known as the =COPILOT() function in Excel. Unlike the Copilot chatbot, this innovative feature allows direct interaction with a spreadsheet cell, enabling users to perform data analysis and generation through natural language prompts. This article serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding the =COPILOT() function and how to effectively implement it in your spreadsheet tasks.

Understanding the COPILOT Function in Excel

The =COPILOT() function resembles other standard Excel formulas, such as SUM and PIVOTBY, but offers the unique capability of processing data through natural language commands. When you invoke the =COPILOT() function, your prompt is transmitted to the Copilot cloud service, which employs integrations with Bing and ChatGPT to interpret your request and execute the corresponding operations within the Excel grid.

This function is highly versatile, allowing users to reformat data, summarize comments, categorize items, and brainstorm creative ideas.

The core objective of this function is to democratize advanced Excel capabilities, removing the need for in-depth knowledge of Excel’s syntax. Notably, any alterations in source data trigger automatic updates in the outputs generated by COPILOT. Since the function operates within Excel, it allows integration with traditional formulas like IF, SWITCH, LAMBDA, and WRAPROWS.

Requirements and Limitations of the COPILOT Function

Currently, the rollout of the =COPILOT() function is available for Excel on Windows 11 (build 19212.20000) and macOS (build 25081334) via the Beta Channel. However, it is exclusively available for commercial customers holding a Microsoft 365 Copilot license, thereby excluding regular consumer subscriptions. Users with Microsoft 365 Personal or Family subscriptions may notice the feature, but it won’t function, displaying a “BLOCKED” error.

The function permits a maximum of 100 requests every 10 minutes (up to 300 within an hour).To help manage these quotas, users can utilize array inputs.

Notably, the =COPILOT() function currently only works with data housed within the workbook; it does not support external data or web integrations at this time.

Additionally, while the AI offers significant advantages, keep in mind that it can generate inaccuracies. Therefore, it’s advisable to refrain from using this function for critical numerical computations.

Getting Started with the COPILOT Function in Excel

To utilize the =COPILOT() function, follow these straightforward steps:

Launch the Excel application.
Create a spreadsheet containing the data you wish to analyze.
Enter the following function and press Enter:

=COPILOT("prompt_part1", [context1], [arguments])

Once executed, the provided data will be transmitted to the AI, which will return the results in the designated cells.

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Here’s a detailed breakdown of the components of the function:

=COPILOT: This identifies the function, instructing Excel to engage the AI Copilot engine for processing.
prompt_part1: Your natural language command (always enclosed in quotes), conveying your request such as summarization, classification, or explanation. Providing clear instructions, like “Summarize in one sentence”, yields better results than vague phrases.
context1: Specify the data range that Copilot should analyze within this parameter.
arguments (optional): Additional inputs that can fine-tune Copilot’s response, expressed in natural language.

Example 1: Without any additional arguments: =COPILOT("Summarize this feedback into a paragraph", C2:C15)

=COPILOT: Instructs Excel to invoke the AI.
"Summarize this feedback into a paragraph": Your natural language directive.
C2:C15: The data range containing customer feedback.
No third argument: Default output selection made by Copilot.

Excel Copilot function example — Example of the Excel Copilot function / Image: Mauro Huculak

Example 2: Using all available options: =COPILOT("Summarize reviews in one sentence per row", A2:A20, "Output as a list")

=COPILOT: Instructs Excel to use the AI feature.
"Summarize reviews in one sentence per row": Your natural language instruction.
A2:A20: The dataset being analyzed.
"Output as a list": Additional formatting guidelines.

If no data is supplied, the function will solely respond based on your prompt, as exemplified by: =COPILOT("Write 5 team name ideas for a cycling club").

Microsoft asserts that the =COPILOT() function will not utilize your data for training AI models. Nonetheless, be mindful that data will be sent to the cloud, so caution is advised regarding the type of information shared. For comprehensive guidance on leveraging the COPILOT function, visit the company’s support page.

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