How to Use AI Features in Notepad: A Step-by-Step Guide

For decades, Microsoft Notepad has served as a reliable and adaptable tool within the Windows ecosystem. This straightforward text editor is employed for a variety of tasks, ranging from opening Readme files to crafting HTML code. Recently, Microsoft has supercharged Notepad with artificial intelligence (AI) enhancements, introducing three innovative features tailored for Windows 11 users. In this article, we’ll explore these new functionalities and how they can enhance your productivity.

Exploring AI Capabilities in Notepad

As part of its transition to Windows 11, Microsoft has infused its classic applications, such as Paint and Notepad, with AI functionalities. This evolution opens up exciting possibilities for users. In recent updates, Notepad has been equipped with intelligent features powered by machine learning. Below are the latest enhancements available to you.

To start utilizing these AI capabilities, simply click the Copilot icon located at the top of your Notepad interface.

1. Rewrite Text

Have you ever wished to adjust the tone or style of your writing without additional effort? With the new rewriting feature, you can refer directly to the built-in Copilot instead of copying your text elsewhere. Here’s how to make it work:

Select the text you want to modify and either press Ctrl + D or right-click to choose “Rewrite” from the Copilot context menu.
A new window will appear containing your original text. You can modify its length, tone, and format using the buttons provided.
After you finalize your settings, click the “Rewrite” button on the bottom left; the AI will present various rewritten alternatives.
You can then select the option that best suits your needs, either copying it to the clipboard, rewriting further, or discarding it altogether.

Additionally, options to adjust format and tone are readily available via the Copilot menu at the top right corner.

2. Summarize Content

If you need to distill your writing down to its essentials, the AI summarization tool is here to help. Follow these steps:

Select your text and either press Ctrl + M or right-click to choose “Summarize” from the Copilot menu.
A summary will appear in a new window, where you can adjust the length with the “Length” button.
To incorporate the summary into your document, click “Insert Below” or copy it using the designated icon.

3. Generate Text

The AI’s writing capability allows you to create new content directly within Notepad. Here’s how:

Click on the area where you’d like to generate text and select “Write” from the context or Copilot menu, or press Ctrl + Q.
A prompt will appear for you to specify what you want the AI to write. The more detailed your input, the better the output. Click “Send” when you’re ready.
The AI will produce the text, which you can insert into your document by clicking “Keep Text.” Alternatively, you have the option to copy, rewrite, or discard it.

Limitations to Consider

While the AI features in Microsoft Notepad are promising, it’s important to note that they are linked to the Copilot service, with certain limitations. Currently, only Copilot Pro subscribers have full access to these options. Standard users with a Microsoft 365 (Personal or Family) subscription can utilize these tools, along with 60 usage credits per month. Additionally, these features are presently available to Windows Insiders.

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