Getting Started with Microsoft Copilot

Learn how to access Copilot through multiple entry points, create your Microsoft account, understand the interface, and have your first AI-powered conversation.

Ways to Access Copilot

Microsoft Copilot is available through several entry points. Choose the one that fits your workflow:

1. Copilot on the Web

   Visit copilot.microsoft.com in any browser. This is the fastest way to start - no installation required. Sign in with your Microsoft account for a personalized experience and conversation history.

2. Copilot in Windows

   On Windows 11, press the Copilot key on your keyboard (newer models) or click the Copilot icon in the taskbar. You can also press Win + C to open the Copilot sidebar. It can help you adjust settings, find files, and answer questions.

3. Copilot in Microsoft Edge

   Click the Copilot icon in the Edge sidebar (or press Ctrl + Shift + .). This version is context-aware - it can see the webpage you are viewing and answer questions about it, summarize articles, or help you compose text.

4. Copilot in Microsoft 365

   With a Copilot Pro subscription and Microsoft 365, you get Copilot directly inside Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams. Look for the Copilot button in the ribbon or toolbar of each application.

Creating a Microsoft Account

While you can use some Copilot features without signing in, a Microsoft account unlocks the full experience:

1. Go to account.microsoft.com

   Click "Create a Microsoft account" and follow the prompts. You can use an existing email address or create a new Outlook.com address.

2. Verify your email

   Microsoft will send a verification code to your email. Enter the code to confirm your account.

3. Sign in to Copilot

   Visit copilot.microsoft.com and click "Sign in" in the top right. Once signed in, your conversations will be saved and you will get access to additional features.

Your First Conversation

Once you have access to Copilot, try these steps to get comfortable with the interface:

User:
Hi Copilot! Can you explain what you can help me
with? Give me 5 specific examples.

Copilot:
Of course! Here are 5 things I can help you with:

1. Research and Learning
   I can search the web and provide up-to-date
   information with source citations.

2. Writing and Editing
   I can draft emails, essays, reports, and more.
   I can also help you rewrite or improve text.

3. Image Creation
   Describe an image and I'll generate it using
   DALL-E. Great for social media, presentations,
   or creative projects.

4. Data Analysis
   Share data or ask about trends, and I can help
   you understand and visualize information.

5. Code Help
   I can write, explain, and debug code in many
   programming languages.

Understanding the Interface

The Copilot interface is straightforward. Here are the key elements you will encounter:

Using Copilot with Images

Copilot can both analyze and generate images:

Analyzing Images

Upload an image by clicking the image icon in the chat input. You can then ask Copilot to:

• Describe what is in the image
• Read and extract text from screenshots or photos
• Identify objects, landmarks, or plants
• Explain charts, graphs, or diagrams
• Compare multiple images

Generating Images

Simply describe the image you want and Copilot will create it using DALL-E:

User:
Create an image of a cozy home office with warm
lighting, a wooden desk, a laptop, a coffee mug,
and bookshelves in the background. Photorealistic
style.

Copilot:
Here's the image I created for you!
[Generates a photorealistic image based on your
description]

You can ask me to adjust colors, add or remove
elements, or try a different artistic style.

Example Prompts to Try

Here are some prompts to help you explore Copilot's capabilities right away: