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HOW TO Summarise a PDF Document using AI | ChatGPT & Copilot

Education


Introduction

In this article, we’ll explore how to summarize a lengthy PDF document using Microsoft Copilot and ChatGPT. By leveraging these advanced AI tools, you'll be able to extract crucial information from documents without having to read through each page.

Using Microsoft Copilot to Summarize PDFs

To begin, let's examine how to summarize a large PDF document using Microsoft Copilot, which is integrated into Microsoft 365. For this demonstration, we will be working with a 107-page document.

Step-by-Step Process

  1. Accessing Microsoft Copilot: Open the PDF document in Microsoft Edge. You can initiate the summary process in multiple ways—either by clicking the "Ask Copilot" button or the icon located at the top right of the browser. Both approaches will open the Copilot side panel on the right side of the screen.

  2. Choosing the Appropriate Tab: You'll notice two tabs in Copilot: "Work" and "Web." Although both can be used for summarizing tasks, the "Web" tab tends to be more effective for our purpose.

  3. Generating a Summary: In the copilot window, select the prompt that reads "Generate document summary." Copilot will analyze the PDF and provide a summary that includes key points such as an overview of workshops and social media strategies covering platforms like Facebook and Instagram.

  4. Requesting Bullet Points: If you want the summary in a more structured format, you might request the key points in bullet points. By doing so, Copilot will adjust its output accordingly.

  5. Exploring Specific Details: Should you desire more in-depth information on a specific topic, such as social media optimization, you can ask Copilot to provide more detailed insights from the document. It will sift through the content and present the chosen details.

Summarizing with ChatGPT

Next, let’s discuss how to use ChatGPT to summarize the same 107-page PDF document:

  1. Inputting the Prompt: Using ChatGPT, input the same prompt you used for Copilot to get a summary of the document. After a moment, ChatGPT will generate a summary that details the workshop, dates, and topics covered.

  2. Detailed Bullet Points: Unlike Copilot, ChatGPT tends to deliver more extensive details in the initial summary, often incorporating bullet points without the need for a follow-up prompt.

  3. Diving Deeper: You can further inquire about specific subjects, like "Tell me more about Instagram strategy." ChatGPT will pull relevant information regarding profile optimization, content creation, and more, providing comprehensive coverage of the requested topic.

Comparison of Both Tools

Both Microsoft Copilot and ChatGPT offer effective solutions for summarizing PDF documents. While Copilot might require additional prompts for bullet points, ChatGPT often provides a more detailed initial summary and clearly structured information.


Keyword

FAQ

1. What is the best tool for summarizing a PDF document?
The best tool may vary according to personal preference. Both Microsoft Copilot and ChatGPT can effectively summarize PDFs, but ChatGPT often provides more detail in its initial output.

2. Can I request more specific information using these tools?
Yes, both Microsoft Copilot and ChatGPT allow you to ask for more specific information about certain topics within the PDF.

3. Is Microsoft Copilot included with Microsoft 365?
Yes, Microsoft Copilot is part of the Microsoft 365 suite and can be utilized through applications like Word and Edge.

4. Do I need to have technical expertise to use AI tools like ChatGPT?
No, using AI tools like ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot requires no technical expertise. They are designed to be user-friendly and accessible to anyone.