Updated
Updated · Computerworld · Jun 19
Guide Details 5 Excel Formulas and Copilot Tools for Microsoft 365 Users
Updated
Updated · Computerworld · Jun 19

Guide Details 5 Excel Formulas and Copilot Tools for Microsoft 365 Users

3 articles · Updated · Computerworld · Jun 19

Summary

  • Five Excel formula categories — basic math, IF, SUMIF/COUNTIF, CONCAT and VLOOKUP — are highlighted in an updated how-to guide aimed at helping users analyze data faster.
  • Around 500 built-in Excel functions exist, but the guide focuses on a small set of common tools for calculations, conditional logic, text combination and table lookups across large datasets.
  • Microsoft 365 users are also shown multiple ways to enter formulas, including direct typing, the Formulas tab, AutoSum shortcuts and autofill for repeating formulas down a sheet.
  • Copilot can generate and insert formulas from plain-language prompts, but access requires an M365 Personal, Family or Premium plan, or a business subscription with a paid Copilot add-on.
  • The article, first published in May 2023 and updated in June 2026, positions formula basics as useful both on their own and for writing better Copilot prompts.

Insights

Beyond Microsoft's Copilot, which specialized AI tools provide the best value for automating complex financial modeling in Excel?
As AI writes our formulas, will the next generation of analysts lose the core skills needed for complex problem-solving?