If your Outlook inbox feels out of control, Copilot is here to help you take back your time. With Microsoft 365 Copilot, it’s time to flip the script and take back control. Whether you’re overwhelmed by unread messages, juggling multiple conversations, or stuck drafting yet another email, Copilot can help you manage your inbox more efficiently, effectively, and with less stress.
Let’s explore how to use Copilot in Outlook to simplify your workday, save time, and boost productivity. In this article, find out how you can put this powerful AI assistant to work. Or watch the related video below to see Copilot in action.
What is Copilot in Outlook?
Microsoft 365 Copilot is an AI-powered tool available in supported versions of Outlook, including Outlook for the Web, which helps you summarize emails, draft replies, generate new messages, and much more. If Copilot is part of your Microsoft 365 subscription, look for the Copilot icon on the right side of the Outlook ribbon.
Note: Although Copilot Chat is integrated into your Microsoft 365 login, using Microsoft 365 Copilot inside apps, such as Outlook, requires an add-in to your subscription.
Here are seven easy ways Copilot can help you manage Outlook like a pro, from summarizing threads to writing better emails in seconds.
7 Smart Ways to Use Copilot in Outlook
1. Summarize Lengthy Email Threads
Have you ever opened an email thread and thought, “Where do I even start?” With one click, Copilot can summarize multi-message conversations, highlight decisions, and surface action items.
Example prompt:
“Summarize this thread about the executive retreat and list action items.”
Copilot provides a clear overview, including agenda points, who said what, and what needs to happen next.
2. Get Caught Up After Time Away
If you’ve been out of the office, catching up on hundreds of messages can be overwhelming. Copilot can quickly summarize unread emails and identify the key points.
Example prompt:
“Summarize all unread emails from Adele Vance and create a list of action items.”
3. Find Important Meeting Information Fast
No more digging through emails to find your next meeting.
Example prompt:
“When is my next meeting with Megan?”
Copilot instantly pulls up the meeting date, time, and key details.
Draft and Reply to Emails with Ease
4. Start a New Email with a Prompt
If you’re unsure how to start an email, let Copilot generate a first draft for you.
Example prompt:
“Imagine you’re the Marketing Director for Jazzy’s Cupcakes. Write a friendly, casual email to Jazzy’s Cupcakes customers announcing the flavor of the month. Include a BOGO offer.” 🧁
5. Reply to Emails Faster
Instead of staring at a blank reply screen, use Draft with Copilot to get suggestions based on the original message.
Customize by tone:
Short and friendly? Professional and direct? You choose. There’s even an option to write Like a poem 😂
6. Improve Your Writing with Coaching
Have you already drafted your email? Use Copilot’s Coaching feature to improve the tone or clarity. It’s like having a built-in editor for your professional communications.
Use case:
Reword a sensitive reply to make it more diplomatic and clearer without losing your message.
Bonus: Quick Content Creation Ideas
Beyond email management, here are more ways to use Copilot in Outlook:
- Create follow-up emails after meetings using summaries from Outlook or Teams
- Send weekly update messages based on tasks and calendar items
- Generate customer service replies using a specific tone and structure
- Translate messages into different languages for global communication (with Microsoft 365 language support)
Final Thoughts: Take Back Control of Your Inbox
Microsoft 365 Copilot is more than just a smart assistant—it’s your inbox partner. Whether you’re summarizing emails, replying professionally, or starting a brand-new message, Copilot is there to make it easier and faster.
Would you like to learn more?
- Explore additional resources at TheSoftwarePro.com/Outlook. Sign up for my free tips newsletter to receive the latest Microsoft 365 updates, Copilot demos, and practical how-to guides.
- For handouts on Microsoft 365 Copilot best practices and prompts, visit TheSoftwarePro.com/Copilot.
© Dawn Bjork, MCT, MOSE, CSP®, The Software Pro®
Microsoft Certified Trainer, Productivity Speaker, Certified Speaking Professional
