Start Your Year Right: How NOT to Use Microsoft 365 Copilot

A new year, a fresh start—this is the perfect opportunity to work smarter and more efficiently with Microsoft 365 Copilot. But before you dive in, here’s a How NOT to Use Copilot tip that could save you time and frustration:

🚫 Avoid the Copy-Paste Trap

Imagine this: you’ve gathered all the information you need for an important document. Your first thought? Copy and paste everything into a blank document and let Copilot handle the rest. Sounds easy, right? Not so fast.

This method may seem like a shortcut, but it often leads to messy formatting, inconsistencies, and more work for you in the end. Copilot excels when you guide it effectively—but it’s not a magical fix for poorly organized content.

✅ A Smarter Workflow

Start the year with a workflow that truly leverages Copilot’s capabilities. Here’s the better way to work:

1. Organize Your Content in a Reference File

Store the information you’ve gathered in a well-structured document in OneDrive. Keep it neat with clear sections, bullet points, or numbered lists. This will serve as your source file for Copilot.

2. Use Templates

Instead of starting from scratch, open a pre-designed template for the type of document you’re creating—whether it’s a report, proposal, or newsletter. Templates ensure consistency and save time.

3. Provide Clear Prompts to Copilot

Let Copilot shine by combining your reference file and template with a precise prompt:

“Create a [document type, e.g., report or proposal] using the information in /[reference file]. Use the following styles: Title for headings, Heading 1 for main sections, Heading 2 for subsections, and Numbered List for steps.”

This approach prevents wasted time and ensures your document looks professional from the start.

✨ Extra Tips for Success

1. Work with Clear Sections

If you’re dealing with large amounts of text, Copilot works better when you divide it into sections with clear headings. This also makes summarizing or creating specific parts—like conclusions—easier.

2. Iterate and Improve

Your first draft isn’t always perfect. Use iterative prompts like:

“Rewrite paragraph 3 to make it more concise.” or

“Suggest an engaging introduction based on this content.”

3. Pair Copilot with Visual AI Tools

Need visuals for your document? Ask Copilot to summarize your content into bullet points and use them directly in PowerPoint for a streamlined presentation.

🎯 Why This Workflow Works

By following this approach, you’ll get the most out of Microsoft 365 Copilot. What does it bring to the table?

• Time Savings: No endless formatting or correcting.

• Professional, Consistent Results: Your documents will always look polished.

• Better Communication: Clear prompts lead to better outcomes.

✍️ Make 2025 Smarter

A smarter workflow with Copilot doesn’t just help you get more done—it elevates the quality of your work. As Zig Ziglar once said:

“What you get by reaching your goals is not nearly as important as who you become by reaching them.”

Let’s make this the year where you not only work efficiently but also grow as a professional. With Copilot by your side.