What is prompting?
A prompt is simply what you ask Copilot. The clearer your prompt, the more useful the Copilot output will be. You don’t need technical skills to get started. Copilot works better when you treat it as a thinking and drafting partner.
Prompting frameworks provide a structure for your prompts to help Copilot develop a clear output. The more detailed your request, the more relevant and specific Copilot's Output will be. You don’t need to follow the structure rigidly. Think of it as a checklist that helps you explain your task the way you would to a colleague.
Example prompt framework
- Goal: What you want Copilot to do, using action verbs like: summarize, explain, create, draft.
- Context: Background or purpose for the task, such as audience, the role you want Copilot to assume, tone, specifics you want considered.
- Expectations: Format for the response, for example, draft text, bulleted list, email, social media post.
- Source (when applicable): Upload or link information Copilot should use in its analysis.
Basic prompt (with goal and source): "Write a summary based on all emails from Sam in the past two weeks. "
Prompt in framework (Goal, context expectations): "Draft an outline of a training manual about time management. Our audience is professionals who work in a hybrid environment and constantly need to attend virtual meetings and meet deadlines. The tone of the document will be friendly and suggestive."
10 Prompts to get started in Copilot
If you’re ever unsure where to start or need ideas, refer to the list of prompts to try below for quick inspiration and to see the kinds of questions Copilot can help you with.
- What’s happening today in the news?
- What are some good gift ideas for my dad?
- Compare [product name] and [product name].
- Provide a four-day workout plan that focuses on upper body muscles.
- Provide a summary of this article [article link].
- What are the best dog breeds for families?
- What meals can I make with [ingredients]?
- Give me a simple five-day meal plan.
- What is 8 x 313?
- Explain the laws of physics to a first-year University student.
Prompt gallery
The Prompt gallery on the web version of Copilot (located directly below the chat window) is a helpful tool to get the most out of the Copilot experience. The gallery features prompt examples across a range of topics and tasks, such as research, writing, productivity, and creativity. Understand Prompt Gallery in Copilot.
Source: Microsoft
