Start from an existing Word document

Applies To
Word for Microsoft 365 Word for Microsoft 365 for Mac

Use Copilot in Word to build on content that already exists. You can start from a template, update an existing document, or use source files to generate new content while maintaining the document's format and structure.

Reuse existing format and structure

Start from a template or existing document and draft new content while keeping formatting and structure.

Add content

Ask Copilot to expand an existing document with:

  • A new section
  • A new paragraph
  • A checklist
  • A table
  • Other supported document content

Start from an existing document

Progression from creating a new copy to updating and editing with Copilot in Word.

  1. Copy or open a template or existing document.
  2. Open Copilot and describe what you want it to write. Use Reference a file to point to a specific source, or let Copilot find relevant files and context.
  3. Select Generate and review the draft.

Example prompts

  • Fill out an invoice using information in a purchase order PDF.

  • Update a regulatory approval package using the latest trial manufacturing data.

  • Create a section based on [file name].

  • Add a Key Takeaways section to the executive summary.

Learn more

Welcome to Copilot in Word

Microsoft Copilot help & learning