Fix OneNote Copilot We Experienced a Problem Error
Question details
The user is unable to compile information using Copilot in OneNote due to a recurring error message, despite the feature working normally for coworkers.

- Product
- Microsoft OneNote and Copilot for Microsoft 365
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to summarize or compile notes and information using the Copilot feature in Microsoft OneNote.
- Observed behavior
- Copilot fails to process the request and displays the error message: 'We experienced a problem. Please try again in a few minutes.'
Verify that your internet connection is stable and that you are signed in with the correct enterprise or school account that has an active Copilot for Microsoft 365 license.
Report to the Copilot for Microsoft 365 Community
Because this issue is specific to one user account while others are unaffected, it often requires investigation by Microsoft specialists to resolve backend account configurations.
Account-specific Copilot errors are frequently related to backend provisioning delays, tenant configuration mismatches, or localized service interruptions that regular troubleshooting cannot fix.
Open your web browser and go to the official Microsoft Q&A website or the dedicated Copilot for Microsoft 365 community forum.
Click 'Sign In' at the top right corner and log in using the same Microsoft 365 account experiencing the OneNote Copilot error.
Click on 'Ask a question' or 'New Discussion'. Clearly describe that you are receiving the 'We experienced a problem' error specifically in OneNote when compiling information, and mention that coworkers are unaffected.
Apply the 'Microsoft Copilot for Microsoft 365' tag to your post. This ensures your issue is routed directly to the specialized engineering and support teams who can check your account's backend status.

Refresh Your Microsoft 365 Account Session
Signing out and back into OneNote can refresh your authentication tokens and resolve temporary authorization glitches causing the Copilot error.
Try WPS Office for Smart and Efficient Document Management
If you frequently encounter frustrating backend errors with Microsoft 365 tools, consider switching to WPS Office. It is a lightweight, free alternative that offers seamless compatibility and built-in AI capabilities to help you compile, summarize, and generate content effortlessly.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installation package for your operating system.
- 2. Install and Launch: Run the installer, follow the on-screen instructions, and launch the application once complete.
- 3. Activate WPS AI: Sign in with your free WPS account, open a new document, and click the WPS AI widget to start summarizing and compiling your information seamlessly.

Frequently Asked Questions
Why does OneNote Copilot say 'We experienced a problem'?
This error usually indicates a temporary server-side interruption with Microsoft's AI services or a desynchronization in your account's Microsoft 365 licensing and profile provisioning.
How long should I wait before trying Copilot again?
Microsoft generally recommends waiting 5 to 15 minutes before attempting the prompt again. If the issue persists for over 24 hours while coworkers can use it, you should escalate the issue to Microsoft support.
Can I fix this error by reinstalling OneNote?
Reinstalling OneNote rarely fixes this specific Copilot error because AI processing occurs in the cloud. You should focus on refreshing your account session or reaching out to Microsoft Q&A specialists for backend investigation first.




