Using Copilot Researcher and Analyst in Microsoft 365

Overview

Microsoft Copilot includes specialized agents designed to help staff work faster with information and data.

• Researcher – for gathering, summarizing, and synthesizing information
• Analyst – for analyzing data, identifying trends, and generating insights

These tools are available through Microsoft Copilot and integrate with Microsoft 365 apps such as Word, Excel, Teams, and Outlook.

Prerequisites

• M365 Copilot add on license required
• Be signed in with your Northwestern University organizational account
• Have access to the files or data you want Copilot to reference

What Is Researcher?

Researcher helps you quickly explore topics, compile background information, and create structured summaries using trusted sources and your organization’s content. This agent is ideal when you need context, background, or synthesized information rather than raw data analysis.

Common Use Cases

• Drafting frameworks for reports or proposals
• Summarizing complex topics
• Gathering background information for presentations
• Creating outlines or briefing documents

How to Use Researcher

1. Open Microsoft Copilot in Word, Teams, or the Copilot app
2. Select Researcher from the list of available agents
3. Enter a prompt describing what you need

Example prompts:

• “Research best practices and provide detailed framework for protecting intellectual property from the perspective of the inventor.”
• “Provide a general overview of climate change considerations from the angle of policy from at least five different sources.”

What Is Analyst?

Analyst focuses on data interpretation. It helps you analyze datasets, identify patterns, and explain findings in plain language. This agentg is best when you already have structured data and want insights or interpretation.

Common Use Cases

• Reviewing trends in Excel spreadsheets
• Analyzing usage or performance data
• Creating insights from structured datasets
• Turning raw numbers into narratives

How to Use Analyst

1. Open Microsoft Copilot (commonly used with Excel)
2. Choose Analyst from the agent list
3. Ask a data‑focused question or upload/select a dataset

Example prompts:

• “Analyze this spreadsheet and identify usage trends over time.”
• “Summarize notable patterns and anomalies in this data.”

Researcher vs. Analyst: Which Should I Use?

Tips for Best Results

• Be specific in your prompts
• Reference files or data directly when possible
• Review Copilot output for accuracy before sharing
• Refine results by asking follow‑up questions

Data Security & Responsible Use

• Content is generated based on data you are already permitted to access
• Always verify results before using them in official communications.

Limitations for Researcher and Analyst

• A maximum of 25 queries per user per month (combined).
• There is no native UI or admin report showing remaining usage; users must self‑track queries.
• Cannot process images as input.
• Researcher’s responses typically range from under five minutes for simple queries. Then 10 to 45 minutes for highly complex ones.
• Researcher’s predefined logic or content cannot be modified like other Copilot agents

Need Help?

For questions, concerns, or overall assistance please submit a ticket to consultant@northwestern.edu