Some apps, browsers especially, can "take" a lot of CPU power and/or system memory by default that it does not actually use.
Even within apps that can/do use a lot of system resources (Dragon), usually training or refining the app in question can help lower system resource usage.
When 85%+ Usage is Normal
Intensive Tasks: High CPU utilization is expected when playing demanding games, rendering video, or running intensive applications.
Recording/TTS/Text To Speech or Speech to Text: Especially when these apps, Dragon, Claro, Genio etc have not been optomised, trained or are trying to record a lecturer from across a room, will max out system resources.
Active Processes: If you have many browser tabs open, a background antivirus scan running, or Windows is installing updates in the background, 85% is a reasonable load.
Optimal Performance: A high percentage often means your CPU is working optimally, rather than waiting on other components, providing higher performance in games and apps.
Temporary Spikes: Task Manager itself can cause a spike when opened, but it should settle down quickly.
When to Be Concerned (The "Bad" Scenario)
If your laptop is at 85-100% usage while idle (i.e., you are doing LITERALLY nothing on the computer), it is generally a sign of a problem.
The second you run apps, or many tabs they may "reserve" resources, this can then look like 50% Plus usage.
Overheating: If this usage is accompanied by extremely loud fans or a hot chassis, it could lead to thermal throttling (the CPU slowing itself down to prevent damage).
Malware: Malicious software (like a cryptominer) can disguise itself as a legitimate process while using up your CPU.
Stuck Processes: A Windows update or a driver might be stuck in a loop, consuming unnecessary power.
What to Check
Restart: A simple restart can often resolve stuck background processes, most machines should be restarted at least twice a week.
Look at the Process Tab: In Task Manager, click the "CPU" column header to sort by usage. See what is actually taking up those cycles.
Monitor Temps: If the CPU temperature is consistently above 85-90°C, it is running too hot.
It also makes sense to remember that a standard or even upgraded DSA-provided laptop is still not going to be able to perform like a £1000+ device.