Query a dataset in plain language instead of building a pivot table

Step 1: Open the Copilot chat pane on your datasetExcel

If the data is still a plain range, convert it to a Table first (Ctrl+T) — Copilot reliably identifies column names and boundaries from a Table, while a loose range forces it to guess where the data actually starts and ends, which is a common source of a wrong or incomplete answer in step 2.

Step 2: Ask the question directlyCopilotExcel

Skip the pivot-table setup for a question you only need answered once.

Prompt idea:

Which salesperson had the most Q3 sales, and what was their total? Also tell me the second and third highest.

Step 3: Verify before you repeat the number out loudExcel

A quick chat answer is convenient, but it's still worth a second glance before you quote it in a meeting.

Step 4: Build the real pivot table if it's a recurring questionExcel

If you find yourself asking the same question every month, that's a signal to build a proper pivot table or dashboard instead of re-asking each time.

Check the work

• Cross-check the answer against a quick SUM or COUNTIF formula before repeating it externally.
• Confirm Copilot used the full dataset, not a filtered or truncated view.
• If the question recurs, build a real pivot table instead of relying on chat every time.

Source: CFO Connect, "Summit 2025 Recap: Microsoft Copilot for CFOs — Real Workflows That Save" (2025)