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Edit a document in place

Use in-app Copilot to change wording, structure, formatting or content directly inside the file you are already working on.

Where the action happens

Word / PowerPoint / Excel where supported

Product or feature needed

In-app Copilot editing

AI required

Yes

Extra credits

Usually no additional credits for normal in-app use

Technical skill

Low

Risk level

Low to medium

Licence dependency

Requires supported in-app Copilot access.

Credit dependency

Usually none.

UK availability

available

What it can do

  • Work directly in the current file rather than copying content into a separate chat.
  • Ask for targeted changes or broader revisions.
  • Iterate on a draft without rebuilding the document from scratch.

Limitations

  • Exact in-app editing capabilities vary by app and rollout.

Prerequisites

  • A supported Microsoft 365 Copilot licence and app experience.

Notes

Generic in-app capability.

Watch-outs for Work with documents

  • This section explains what is possible, not whether a particular document should be used with AI.
  • Check your organisation's policy and the information involved before using real work content.
  • Use the AI Redlines where a task involves decisions or actions that should remain with people.

Last checked: 2026-10-09

Disclaimer: Always follow your organisation's internal guidance and policies regarding AI usage. The suggestions in this guide have been created to the best of accuracy, but Microsoft licensing, pricing and feature availability change frequently — treat them as a planning baseline, not a procurement quote.

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