Work smarter with AI (AI-3025-A)

Overview

This course introduces learners to the practical use of generative AI through Microsoft Copilot and Microsoft 365 Copilot. Designed for beginners, it focuses on how AI-powered assistants can enhance everyday productivity across professional and personal tasks.

Learners will gain a clear understanding of how Copilot works, where it adds value, and how to use it effectively within common Microsoft 365 applications. The course emphasises real-world scenarios such as research, content creation, and workload management, alongside developing the essential skill of prompt writing.

By the end of the course, learners will be equipped to confidently use Copilot to generate meaningful outputs, streamline workflows, and improve efficiency in day-to-day activities.

Prerequisites

To attend this course, learners should have:

• Familiarity with Microsoft 365 applications such as Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint
• Basic computer literacy

No prior knowledge of artificial intelligence or Microsoft Copilot is required.

Target audience

This course is designed for individuals looking to improve productivity using AI tools, including:

• Business users and professionals across all sectors
• Students and knowledge workers
• Individuals new to generative AI and Microsoft Copilot

It is particularly suited to those who want a practical, non-technical introduction to AI and how it can support everyday work and personal tasks.

Objectives

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

• Explain the purpose and capabilities of Microsoft Copilot and Microsoft 365 Copilot
• Describe how generative AI supports productivity in everyday scenarios
• Identify tasks where Copilot can add measurable value
• Write effective prompts to generate accurate and useful AI responses
• Use Copilot for research, content creation, and task management
• Integrate AI tools into daily workflows to improve efficiency and output quality

Outline

Introduction to Microsoft Copilot and Microsoft 365 Copilot

• Overview of Microsoft Copilot
• Differences between Microsoft Copilot and Microsoft 365 Copilot
• Key features and capabilities
• Common use cases across personal and professional contexts

Understanding how Copilot works

• High-level overview of generative AI
• How large language models generate responses
• The role of data, context, and prompts
• Responsible AI considerations and limitations

Exploring AI-driven productivity scenarios

• Using Copilot for research and information gathering
• Supporting communication tasks such as emails and summaries
• Enhancing productivity in document creation
• Managing workloads and prioritising tasks
• Real-world examples of AI improving efficiency

Writing effective prompts

• What makes a good prompt
• Structuring prompts for clarity and relevance
• Iterating and refining prompts
• Avoiding common prompt-writing mistakes
• Practical prompt-writing exercises

Using Copilot for content creation

• Generating written content in Word
• Creating presentations in PowerPoint
• Drafting emails and communications in Outlook
• Analysing and summarising data in Excel
• Improving content quality with AI suggestions

Using Copilot for research and task management

• Asking effective research questions
• Summarising large volumes of information
• Organising tasks and workflows
• Automating repetitive activities
• Improving decision-making with AI insights

Integrating Copilot into everyday workflows

• Identifying opportunities to use AI in daily tasks
• Combining Copilot with existing Microsoft 365 tools
• Building efficient, AI-supported workflows
• Maintaining accuracy and oversight when using AI
• Developing confidence in day-to-day AI usage

Key benefits

• Official Microsoft-authored training aligned to current tools and capabilities
• Beginner-friendly introduction to generative AI with no technical background required
• Focus on practical, real-world productivity scenarios
• Hands-on experience using Microsoft Copilot across common tasks
• Builds confidence in adopting AI tools in both work and personal contexts
• Develops prompt-writing skills that can be applied across multiple AI platforms