As a veteran Microsoft Office suite user, I have experienced it both on my desktop and mobile phone. I know that Microsoft 365 is a powerful tool that can be used for a variety of purposes, including learning. However, I also know that some people may find it difficult to use the app correctly. In this article, I will share some knowledge and my personal feeling about using Microsoft 365, and I will also recommend using WPS Office as an assist software to make your work better.
Part 1. What is Microsoft 365 App?
Microsoft 365 is a suite of productivity apps and cloud services that includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, and Microsoft Teams. It is available for PC, Mac, iOS, and Android devices.
Features
The Home Tab:
When you open Microsoft 365, you'll start with the Home tab. It shows your recent documents and lets you change how they're displayed. You can also upload files and download apps you're subscribed to.
Manage Files Across Microsoft Apps:
The app makes it easy to handle files from all Microsoft apps. The My Content page displays your files, and you can search or sort them. Right-clicking offers actions like sharing and converting to PDF.
Use Templates to Create Documents:
Creating documents is simple thanks to templates. Pick one and start working without switching between apps.
Share Files and View Shared Content:
Sharing files is straightforward. You can also see shared files in one place and use filters to find them.
Manage Cloud Files:
The app works well with cloud storage like OneDrive. You can view and manage your cloud files without leaving the app.
Sort Through Files Easily Using Filters:
Filters help you organize and find files quickly. You can even create your own filters for a personalized experience.
As a user, my two favorite features of Microsoft 365 are:
All-in-One File Management: The Microsoft 365 app simplifies my life by offering a unified platform to manage files across various Microsoft apps. It's a game-changer, saving me from the hassle of switching between apps for file management.
Effortless Template-Based Creation: Creating documents is a breeze with the wide range of templates. It streamlines the process and fuels my creativity, allowing me to produce professional documents without any fuss.
Pros
It is a powerful and versatile suite of apps.
It is available on a variety of devices.
It offers a variety of features, including collaboration, cloud storage, and security.
It is constantly being updated with new features.
Cons
It can be expensive, especially for businesses.
It can be difficult to learn, especially for new users.
It can be slow at times, especially when working with large files.
Pricing
Home Users:
Microsoft 365 Family: $99.99/year or $9.99/month (up to 6 users).
Microsoft 365 Personal: $69.99/year or $6.99/month (single user).
Office Home & Student 2021: $149.99 (single PC or Mac).
Business Users:
Microsoft 365 Business Basic: $6.00/user/month (annual subscription).
Microsoft 365 Business Standard: $12.50/user/month (annual subscription).
Microsoft 365 Business Premium: $22.00/user/month (annual subscription).
Microsoft 365 Apps for Business: $8.25/user/month (annual subscription).
Part 2. Why Use Microsoft 365 App?
As a long-time user of the Microsoft 365 app, I've experienced several positive changes that have greatly improved my working efficiency and the quality of my work. Here are some key benefits
Office Online Mobility: I can create, edit, and share documents from anywhere, boosting productivity.
Effortless Collaboration: Multi-user editing eliminates duplicate documents and streamlines teamwork globally.
Enhanced Collaboration: My Team Groups centralize resources, promoting efficient sharing and editing.
Streamlined Scheduling: Outlook Calendar simplifies meeting planning by sharing schedules.
Data-Driven Insights: Power BI tracks key metrics, aiding decision-making.
Efficient Communication: Yammer fosters swift team interactions, regardless of location.
Email Efficiency: Clutter filters low-priority emails, decluttering inboxes.
In summary, the Microsoft 365 app has not only improved my working efficiency but also the quality of my work by providing mobility, seamless collaboration, enhanced communication, and efficient tools for data analysis and email management.
Part 3. How to Get Microsoft 365 App?
On PC
Step 1: Go to www.office.com.
Step 2: Sign in with your Microsoft account or work/school account.
Step 3: On the Microsoft 365 home page, click "Install apps."
Step 4: Follow the prompts to download and install Microsoft 365.
Step 5: Once installed, you'll see the message "You're all set! Office is installed now." Click "Close."
On Moblie
Step 1: Go to or search for Microsoft 365 in the Play Store.
Step 2: Tap "Install."
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Step 3: Wait for the application to download and install. Once completed, tap "Open."
Step 4: Log into Microsoft 365 using your IdentiKeyUsername@colorado.edu as the email address.
Step 5: If prompted to choose the account type, tap "Work or school account." You may need to do this again if you're using your @****.edu account for a Microsoft personal account.
Step 6: Enter your IdentiKey password, then tap "Sign in."
Step 7: You will now be logged into Microsoft 365 Mobile.
Part 4. Best Free Alternative - WPS Office
WPS Office is a powerful office suite that offers many features for free. It is compatible with Microsoft Office, so you can easily open and save documents created in Microsoft Office. WPS Office also offers clear guidance to solve any problems that you may encounter.
Features:
Word Processing: WPS Office's word processor is a potent tool for document creation and editing.
Spreadsheet: Its spreadsheet tool is adept at data creation and analysis.
Presentation: Craft and deliver impactful presentations with WPS Office.
PDF Editing: Edit, create, and view PDF documents seamlessly.
Cloud Integration: Access your documents from anywhere with WPS Office's cloud support.
Mobile Accessibility: Work on the go with mobile apps available for Android and iOS platforms.
If you want to try WPS Office for free, you can download it from this link.
FAQs
1. Does Microsoft 365 have live support?
Yes, Microsoft 365 offers live support. If you have a Microsoft 365 Basic, Microsoft 365 Personal, or Microsoft 365 Family subscription, you can chat with a technical support expert or request a call back from them to get your questions answered.
2. How often does Microsoft release updates for its Office applications within Microsoft 365?
Microsoft regularly releases updates for its Office applications within Microsoft 365 to improve functionality, security, and performance. Updates are typically released on a monthly basis.
3. Is Microsoft 365 accessible for students, and are there any special pricing options for educational institutions?
Yes, Microsoft 365 is accessible for students, and there are special pricing options available for educational institutions. Microsoft offers Microsoft 365 for Education, which includes a range of productivity and collaboration tools designed for students and educators.
4. Can I cancel my Microsoft 365 subscription at any time, and what happens to my files and data if I do?
Yes, you can cancel your Microsoft 365 subscription at any time. When you cancel your subscription, your access to Microsoft 365 apps and services will end, but your files and data will still be accessible. Microsoft provides a grace period during which you can retrieve your data and move it to other storage solutions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this comprehensive review of the Microsoft 365 App highlights its numerous features, benefits, and pricing options. As a seasoned user, I've personally witnessed the positive impact it can have on working efficiency and the quality of work produced.
Furthermore, I recommend considering WPS Office as a noteworthy free alternative, offering compatibility with Microsoft Office and user-friendly support. . With WPS Office, you have a powerful, cost-effective alternative to traditional office suites, empowering you to create, collaborate, and excel in your work.
