Forum Discussion
Limitations of Copilot in Word
I wanted to raise some disappointing limitations of Copilot in Word which would benefit from Microsoft implementing a solution. Or happy to be guided if it's simply a case of my own lack of knowledge...
- If I create content within Word, it doesn't create/provide links to references used (although it does do so if same request is done via Copilot in Teams/Copilot Chat)
- if I use the copilot icon in the blank page to creat/make request, after actioning my request is not visible, i.e. does not retain history of requests
- It does not edit content I've provided to reformat it. for example I gave it the following request "This document is an informative article. I would like you to reformat it so the text is split across two columns on each page. Also enhance it with suitable images and call-out boxes" it failed to action. A lot of my time is often spent on formatting/designing etc which is where AI would have been helpful.
1 Reply
1. Targeted solutions
Constraint 1: Format modification issues
Alternative:
Let Copilot generate the content first
Apply styles manually (or record macros for batch processing)
Example command:
“Generate a piece of text with the title 'Project Summary', formatted with Markdown markup”
Limitation 2: Content Length Limitations
Chunking Processing Tip:
“Continue above and write the subsequent 500 words starting with the 'Market Analysis' section”
Use Outline View:
Getting Copilot to Generate Content in Chunks
Limitation #3: Data Accuracy
Validation step:
“Please provide 3 authoritative sources to support this idea”
Fact-checking command:
“Footnote the data cited in this paragraph with the source”
2. enterprise-level constraint response
Document Permission Issues:
Make sure Copilot has permission to access:
SharePoint/OneDrive files
Encrypted documents need to be decrypted first
Sensitive data handling:
Enable Purview Compliance tab:
Automatically block sensitive information (e.g. credit card numbers)
3.Tips to improve efficiency
Optimal command structure:
“Generate an academic paper format on [topic]:
1. 500 word abstract (with 3 subheadings)
2. 5 key data points (in tabular form)
3. 2 arguments for and against controversial points”
Avoid vague requests:
“Help me improve this document.”
“Change this text from colloquial to formal business style”
