Prompts are how you ask Copilot for Microsoft 365 to do something for you — like creating, summarizing, editing, or transforming. Think about prompting like having a conversation, using plain but clear language and providing context like you would with an assistant.
1. Tell Copilot what you need
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Track industry news: "Give me a concise summary of recent news about [Product X]." |
Summarize information: “Write a session abstract of this /[presentation].” |
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Edit text: “Check this product launch rationale for inconsistencies.” |
Create engaging content: "Create a value proposition for [Product X].” |
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Transform documents: “Create an onboarding presentation based on this /[document].” |
Catch-up on missed items: "What's the latest on [Project X].” |
2. Include the right prompt ingredients
To get the best response, it’s important to focus on some of the key elements below when phrasing your Copilot prompts.
3. Keep the conversation going
Following up on your prompts help you collaborate with Copilot to gain more useful, tailored responses.
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Generating content ideas Lead with broader requests, then give specific details about the content. |
Gaining insights Ask for a summary of a specific file, then ask relevant questions to gain deeper insights. |
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Enabling insightful meetings Request a meeting recap, then ask for more information about what you should know. |
Translating languages Ask Copilot to translate a sentence to one of the supported languages, then ask for more context or a regional dialect. |
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Storytelling assistance Ask Copilot to write a story, then guide it by giving more specific, relevant details. |
Solving technical problems Present a technical problem, then narrow it down, or ask for step-by-step guidance. |
Helpful hints to keep in mind
Know Copilot’s limitations
Copilot is limited to your current conversation, so give lots of details.
Be professional
Using polite language improves Copilot’s response.
Communicate clearly
Pay attention to punctuation, grammar, and capitalization.
Use quotation marks
This helps Copilot know what to write, modify, or replace for you.
Start fresh
Avoid interrupting and type “new topic” when switching tasks.
