Overview
This interactive virtual course introduces the practical application of Microsoft 365 Copilot within Excel to support efficient, intelligent data analysis. Learners will explore how Copilot simplifies data-driven tasks, including generating formulas, cleaning datasets, analysing trends, and creating visual summaries—using plain English prompts. Delivered in a licensed, live environment, this hands-on session equips learners to automate reporting, build dashboards, and transform raw data into actionable insights. The course is ideal for professionals seeking to unlock deeper insights from data and enhance their Excel workflows with artificial intelligence.
Prerequisites
- A basic working knowledge of Microsoft Excel
- Ideally, learners will have completed the Empower Your Workflow: Fundamentals of Microsoft 365 Copilot (QA365COPBU) course
Target audience
This course is designed for:
- Professionals using Excel to manage and analyse data
- Individuals seeking to enhance their productivity using AI within Microsoft 365
- Beginners and intermediate users looking to improve data storytelling and reporting through Copilot
Delegates will learn how to
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
- Understand the role of Microsoft 365 Copilot in Excel and how it enhances traditional workflows
- Use natural language prompts to interact with Copilot and execute common data tasks
- Analyse and explore datasets using AI-generated insights and summaries
- Tidy messy data by identifying duplicates, inconsistencies, and formatting issues
- Create engaging and readable visuals using Copilot-generated charts and graphs
- Develop smart reports and narrative summaries that automate communication of insights
- Recognise and resolve common Copilot issues within the Excel environment
Outline
Asking the right questions: prompting basics
- Introduction to prompting in Copilot
- Examples of effective vs ineffective natural language prompts
Data cleansing
- Identifying and removing duplicates and empty fields
- Standardising formats and detecting inconsistencies in datasets
Fundamental data analysis
- Generating key statistics using Copilot
- Exploring trends across time, categories, and metrics
- Highlighting anomalies and outliers for deeper investigation
Visualisations
- Creating bar charts, line graphs, and pie charts through Copilot prompts
- Customising visual elements and layouts
- Using Copilot to build dashboards and automate layout configurations
Smarter reports and auto-generated narratives
- Converting charts and tables into narrative summaries
- Using Copilot to create dynamic storytelling elements for reports
- Techniques to improve clarity and insight when presenting data
Exams and assessments
There are no formal exams or assessments included in this course. Learners will engage in real-time tasks and guided demonstrations to reinforce their understanding.
Hands-on learning
This course includes:
- Practical exercises using a live, licensed Microsoft 365 environment
- Real-world data examples to support skill application
- Guided prompts and collaborative problem-solving led by an instructor
Frequently asked questions
How can I create an account on myQA.com?
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Find more answers to frequently asked questions in our FAQs: Bookings & Cancellations page.
How do QA’s virtual classroom courses work?
Our virtual classroom courses allow you to access award-winning classroom training, without leaving your home or office. Our learning professionals are specially trained on how to interact with remote attendees and our remote labs ensure all participants can take part in hands-on exercises wherever they are.
We use the WebEx video conferencing platform by Cisco. Before you book, check that you meet the WebEx system requirements and run a test meeting to ensure the software is compatible with your firewall settings. If it doesn’t work, try adjusting your settings or contact your IT department about permitting the website.
How do QA’s online courses work?
QA online courses, also commonly known as distance learning courses or elearning courses, take the form of interactive software designed for individual learning, but you will also have access to full support from our subject-matter experts for the duration of your course.
Once you have purchased the Online course and have completed your registration, you will receive the necessary details to enable you to immediately access it through our e-learning platform and you can start to learn straight away, from any compatible device. Access to the online learning platform is valid for one year from the booking date.
All courses are built around case studies and presented in an engaging format, which includes storytelling elements, video, audio and humour. Every case study is supported by sample documents and a collection of Knowledge Nuggets that provide more in-depth detail on the wider processes.
When will I receive my joining instructions?
Joining instructions for QA courses are sent two weeks prior to the course start date, or immediately if the booking is confirmed within this timeframe. For course bookings made via QA but delivered by a third-party supplier, joining instructions are sent to attendees prior to the training course, but timescales vary depending on each supplier’s terms. Read more FAQs.
When will I receive my certificate?
Certificates of Achievement are issued at the end the course, either as a hard copy or via email. Read more here.