Microsoft has introduced a fresh addition to its Word platform—Coaching with Copilot. The AI-driven feature goes beyond conventional spelling and grammar tools, providing more in-depth feedback aimed at refining the quality and impact of written content. Word’s new capability is designed for users to enhance their drafts, focusing on clarity, tone, and structure. Currently, only a limited number of U.S. users have access to this early preview in Word for the web.
Getting Feedback Beyond Grammar Checks
Coaching with Copilot does more than flag spelling mistakes. When activated, it offers suggestions to reshape and improve text by analyzing the content for areas that could use more polish. Microsoft says the feature allows writers to either apply suggestions to the entire document or just a highlighted section. Instead of just fixing errors, the tool provides guidance on reorganizing ideas, adjusting the tone, or adding supporting details to better engage readers.
To start using it, you can highlight text and choose the “Get Coaching” option from the Copilot menu. While there’s currently no built-in way to apply suggestions directly within the coaching interface, a workaround involves copying the advice into the “Draft with Copilot” prompt, where changes can be integrated.
Limited Availability and Future Enhancements
Right now, Coaching with Copilot is being tested in Word’s web version. It’s restricted to users who hold a Microsoft 365 Copilot or Copilot Pro license, with language support currently limited to English. The initial rollout targets a U.S.-based audience, but Microsoft has indicated plans to expand the feature to other regions and languages in upcoming updates.
Microsoft is looking to further refine the tool with additional features and easier ways for users to incorporate suggestions, indicating that this is just the start of a broader push toward smarter writing aids in Word.
Keeping Control Over Edits
One of the key aspects of Coaching with Copilot is that it leaves the final decision to the writer. Suggestions appear in a separate dialog, and they don’t change the original content unless the user decides to make the edits manually. This approach ensures that writers can evaluate recommendations without automatically altering their work.
Whether users are working on a brief section or an entire draft, the feature provides flexibility in how it reviews content. If a paragraph feels incomplete, for example, Copilot might recommend adding a call to action or expanding on specific details to make the message more effective.
Microsoft is keen on hearing from those testing the new feature. The feedback option within the Copilot interface allows users to share their thoughts on suggestions, helping shape future updates. Microsoft is actively collecting input to fine-tune the tool and is already working on adding support for other languages and more intuitive ways to use the recommendations.
Last Updated on November 7, 2024 2:36 pm CET
