First ask: could this be a formula? If so, ask the AI to write the formula, and it runs over 40,000 rows instantly. Only split the data into chunks when every row needs its own reasoning, roughly ten thousand rows at a time. If the cells stop visibly changing, it has frozen, so tell it to continue.
More in Microsoft Copilot
Can Copilot build a growing Excel Database from reports?
Yes, with agents in Excel. The workbook becomes the database, with one sheet holding all the rows and a sheet called .rules holding the instructions on which fields to pull and how to format them. Bring it new reports and it appends the data. Correct it in chat and the rules improve.
Can Copilot use Prompts saved in an Excel file?
Yes, with a little setup. Either write in your custom instructions that your prompt library lives in that Excel file, or type / in the chat and bring the sheet in directly. Without one of these, the request is too vague and Copilot may not find the file.
Why can I not see Work IQ in Copilot?
There are several possible reasons. Your organisation may have switched it off, you may be signed in with a personal account instead of your work one, or your Microsoft 365 Copilot licence may not be applied yet. Work IQ comes with the full licence, so check which licence your account shows.