Using Microsoft Copilot Chat

Explore the features of Microsoft Copilot Chat and how to use it safely with our commercial data protection

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Take your learning to the next level with Copilot Chat and safeguard your data

Microsoft Copilot Chat is one of many generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools available in the market. Each AI tool is slightly different. UNSW supports the ethical and responsible use of AI in research and learning. For this reason, we are providing free access to Copilot with Commercial Data Protection for our current students which protects your data, making it safer to use than free versions.

Check your assessment requirements before using AI

The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in your assessments may or may not be allowed. Speak to your lecturer or course coordinator to determine whether AI tools are permitted, and to what degree they may be used.

Discover the different modes of Copilot Chat and tailor its responses based on your needs

Balanced mode

This is the default setting, providing a mix of creativity and accuracy. Ideal for most academic tasks. Use this mode first if you're unsure.

Creative mode

Best for brainstorming and generating innovative ideas. Use this when you’re looking for inspiration or an unconventional approach.

Precise mode

Use this when you need detailed, specific information. It focuses on accuracy and detail, perfect for technical explanations and data analysis.

What you need to know about Copilot Chat

Each time you plan to use AI tools in your studies, remember to use them ethically and responsibly. Unethical use of Copilot could lead to academic misconduct and penalty. Do not plagiarise and always verify AI outputs before incorporating them in your work. Learn more about the accepted uses of AI.

Copilot, like all AI language models, has its limitations. Beware of the below limitations when you're using the AI tool:

Context understanding: while Copilot is good at following instructions, it may not fully grasp the deeper context or nuances of complex academic subjects.

Up-to-date information: Copilot’s training data have a cutoff time, meaning it might not have the latest research or current events.

Bias and errors: Copilot, as with all AI, can inherit biases and incorrect information (also known as hallucinations). This means it might generate incorrect, biased or misleading information or content. Always cross-verify information with trusted sources. All references cited by AI should be verified to ensure the information is correct.
Summarise information: "Summarise the key points of this article in bullet points."

Generate questions: "What are some critical questions one should ask after reading this chapter?"

Concept explanation: "Explain the concept of [complex topic] in simple terms for a beginner."

Comparative analysis: "Compare and contrast [Topic A] and [Topic B] in terms of [specific criteria]."
To understand the depth and utility of Copilot Chat, and to see its limitations, consider these tests:

Create an image: Try asking it the following prompt: “create a diagram showcasing the neural networks of the human brain”.

Familiar paper test: Find a paper you know well and ask, copy and paste the text into Copilot with the following prompt: "Explain how this paper might be useful to, or important to understand for, the average University student." This test demonstrates Copilot’s ability to interpret and explain academic papers. You can then ask yourself:

"Has any critical or important information been left out? Made up or misrepresented?”

“Has the output resulted in a response that is in line with what I might have crafted myself?"

Have a question?

If you have any questions about UNSW AI policy or referencing AI in university, we’re here to help.

Using Microsoft Copilot Chat

Take your learning to the next level with Copilot Chat and safeguard your data

Check your assessment requirements before using AI

See also