Write effective prompts to achieve optimal results

Beginner
Business User
Microsoft Copilot

This module teaches you how to write clear, effective prompts for Microsoft Copilot Chat by using four prompt elements, applying best practices, personalizing Copilot, and managing prompts in Prompt Lab. The same prompting techniques apply across Copilot Chat experiences. A Microsoft 365 Copilot license can provide access to additional organizational sources, such as emails, meetings, chats, and files.

Important

The features and data sources available in Copilot Chat depend on your Microsoft 365 Copilot license and your organization's settings. See What Copilot license do I have? for more information.

Learning objectives

After you complete this module, you're able to:

  • Identify the four key elements of an effective Copilot prompt: context, goal, source, and expectations.

  • Apply best practices to write clear, concise, and well-structured prompts.

  • Recognize common prompting mistakes and how to avoid them.

  • Configure custom instructions and manage Copilot Memory to personalize your Copilot experience.

  • Use Prompt Lab to discover, save, edit, and share useful prompts.

Prerequisites

  • You should be familiar with accessing and using Microsoft 365.