Microsoft Copilot in Excel: Format, Visualize, & Analyze Data

July 23rd, 2024 | AI, Microsoft 365

Microsoft Copilot transforms how tasks are managed in Excel, offering voice command functionality and advanced data analysis tools.  

Microsoft Copilot in Excel: Format, Visualize, & Analyze Data

Data Analysis in Excel 

Copilot excels at data analysis. Once data is in a table format, Copilot automatically analyzes it and provides various suggestions: 

  • Creating New Columns with Formulas: Automatically generate formulas based on the data. 
  • Sorting and Filtering: Quickly sort and filter data with a few clicks. 
  • Data Analysis: Gain insights through detailed analysis, including charts and pivot tables. 

Practical Examples 

Highlighting Specific Data 

To highlight specific entries, such as a salesperson’s name, simply prompt Copilot with the necessary details. For instance, “Highlight the salesperson name Janet Cleverly in green” will automatically apply the desired formatting. 

Analyzing Sales Data 

For quick data retrieval, such as identifying the highest sales in a specific month, Copilot provides instant results. For example, “Which salesperson had the highest sales in October 2021?” will yield the answer without manual searching. 

Filtering Data 

Filtering data based on criteria, such as country, can be done effortlessly. A command like “Filter my data based on the country column USA and Canada” quickly refines the dataset. 

Creating Charts and Pivot Tables 

Copilot simplifies the creation of charts and pivot tables. Commands can range from general to specific, such as “Create a pie chart based on orders in the UK and extended price” or “Create a pivot table based on salesperson and extended price.” 

 

Additional Tips 

  • Formulas: Copilot can generate complex formulas. For example, asking it to “Create a formula to give me 10% of the extended price” will result in a new column with the desired calculation. 
  • General Summaries: For primary data summaries, prompts like “Give me a general summary of all the orders placed from January 1st, 2021, through the first quarter” will provide comprehensive insights. 

Microsoft Copilot significantly enhances productivity in Excel through automation and intelligent data analysis. By leveraging voice commands, detailed prompts, and real-time data manipulation, users can streamline workflows and focus on strategic tasks.  

WATCH THE FULL VIRTUAL TRAINING 

Most AI tools are fun to play with, but ultimately aren’t very useful. We believe Copilot will be the first AI tool that the everyday professional will actually get value out of. Watch the full virtual training for a preview of how Copilot can be used to transform the way you work with Microsoft.