Why Copilot in excel keep showing an error?

(This is a Chinese forum, but I noticed that you originally posted your question in English, so please allow me to reply in English to make the discussion easier and smoother for us.)

Hi @Belinda Tam,

Based on the screenshot you provided, the image only shows a general Copilot error message, so it is not yet possible to determine whether cell AH279 itself contains an error or what the exact root cause may be. The message indicates that Copilot was able to start processing your request but was unable to complete it. This can be related to the workbook, the Copilot service or connection, the Excel version, or the content of the referenced cell.

To better isolate the source of the problem, please try the following troubleshooting:

• Check whether cell AH279 displays an Excel error, such as #VALUE!, #REF!, or #N/A. If the cell contains a formula, select it and use Formulas > Error Checking or Evaluate Formula to inspect the formula step by step.

• Try a simpler Copilot prompt, such as “Explain the formula in cell AH279”, to check whether the issue is related to the original request.
• Update Excel by going to File > Account > Update Options > Update Now. Restart Excel afterward and sign in again if necessary.

• Open the same workbook in Excel for the web and test Copilot there. This can help determine whether the issue is limited to the Excel desktop app.
• Finally, test Copilot in a new, simple workbook. If Copilot works there, the issue is likely specific to the original workbook. If the same error occurs in multiple workbooks and in Excel for the web, the issue may be related to the account, connection, or Copilot service.

I look forward to your response. Please let me know the results of the above tests and whether they help resolve the issue or narrow down the root cause. Based on the additional information you provide, I'll be glad to continue investigating and assist you further.

Thank you for your time and cooperation.