Microsoft has introduced a COPILOT function in Excel that lets users embed natural-language prompts directly into formulas. For example, you can write:
=COPILOT("Classify this feedback", D4:D18)
This enables AI to analyze the highlighted data range and generate meaningful outputs like summaries or classifications—right within your spreadsheet.
How It Upgrades Excel Workflows
Previously, Copilot worked via a sidebar chat interface. Now, with the new function:
- You can prompt Excel using natural language within a cell formula.
- Copilot converts prompts into results like data categorization or dynamic arrays.
- Context is based solely on cell contents—for now, not external data sources.
Access & Limitations
Currently, the COPILOT function is available to users in the Beta Channel with:
- A Microsoft 365 Copilot license
- Windows 11 version 2509 (build 191212.20000) or higher
- Support for 100 calls per 10 minutes and 300 per hour
Beware: there are known quirks, such as occasional omitted rows and issues with date formatting—Microsoft recommends manually reviewing outputs.
Why This Matters
Integrating AI directly into formulas marks a shift in productivity tools:
- Reduces reliance on complex manual formulas.
- Speeds up categorization and data interpretation.
- Embeds conversational AI into Excel’s functional core.
This change aligns with Microsoft’s broader initiative to weave Copilot across its Office ecosystem.
Comparison of Copilot in Excel Interfaces
| Access Method | Key Use Cases |
|---|---|
| Chat Sidebar | Ask questions, generate PivotTables, summarize data |
| Clean Data Tool | One-click fixes for format inconsistencies |
| COPILOT Function | Prompt-based, in-cell analysis and data manipulation |
- Chat Sidebar — Ideal for structured queries through UI
- Clean Data — Automatically resolves formatting and inconsistency issues.
- COPILOT Function — Enables embedded natural-language-driven formula results.
Final Takeaway
With the COPILOT function, Microsoft is injecting AI deeper into Excel’s DNA, allowing users to write intuitive, prompt-based formulas. Currently in beta, it’s a powerful tool for users across finance, research, and admin roles who need quick insights from data. Want help turning those prompts into magic? I can walk you through real-world examples or compare between the sidebar, Clean Data, and COPILOT function tools.
