Mastering perfect prompts for Copilot success

Ready to get the most out of Copilot for Microsoft 365? Brilliant! Let’s dive into how you can craft the perfect prompts to ensure Copilot gives you exactly what you need, every single time. Think of it as having a conversation with a colleague—clarity is key. So, let’s get started!

We often hear from users that it takes a few tries to get the right answer from Copilot. If you’ve found yourself thinking, “Why isn’t Copilot understanding me?”—don’t worry, you’re not alone. The secret lies in how you prompt. With a few tweaks and a bit of guidance, you’ll be a pro in no time.

So, why does prompting matter? It’s the difference between a generic, lacklustre response and a tailored, insightful answer that hits the mark. By mastering the art of prompting, you’re setting yourself up for success, ensuring that Copilot becomes an invaluable asset in your daily workflow. Let’s break down how you can achieve this, and soon you’ll be navigating Copilot like a seasoned pro.

The recipe to a perfect prompt

Creating the perfect prompt is like baking a cake—you need the right ingredients. Here are the four essential elements:

1. Goal: Clearly explain what you want Copilot to achieve.
2. Context: Provide background information, including why you need it and who it’s for.
3. Source: Mention any specific sources or samples Copilot should use.
4. Expectations: Specify how you want Copilot to respond.

Putting it into practice

Now that we know what’s needed, let’s dive into how to put it into practice. Let’s take a look at an example:

“Write a blog about wellbeing.”

This prompt is too vague. Without specifics, Copilot might not hit the mark, leading to a generic and unfocused response.

Let’s try using the GCSE framework to build it out.

“Write a 1500-word blog post for a general audience about the importance of organisations focusing on wellbeing in the workplace. Discuss how technology has changed connectivity and the need for a new perception of wellbeing. Include real-world examples, insights from reputable sources, and mention how Viva Insights supports employees. Use enthusiastic and approachable language.”

See the difference? By being clear and specific, you’re setting Copilot up for success.

Do’s and Don’ts for Prompting Copilot

Do:

• Be clear and specific: Outline your topic, purpose, tone, and length requirements.
• Keep it conversational: Provide feedback based on Copilot’s responses to fine-tune the output.
• Give examples: Use precise keywords or phrases to guide Copilot.
• Ask for feedback: This helps Copilot understand your preferences better.
• Write legibly: Good grammar, punctuation, and capitalisation are crucial.
• Check for accuracy: Always review Copilot’s responses for correctness.
• Provide details: Contextual information, like genre or plot details, helps generate better responses.
• Be polite: A respectful tone fosters better collaboration with Copilot.
• Provide feedback: Copilot learns from you and the more feedback you give Copilot, the better responses you’ll get from it.

Don’t:

• Be vague: Avoid unclear language to ensure quality responses.
• Request inappropriate or unethical content: Respect laws, rules, and the rights of others.
• Use slang or jargon: This can lead to poor-quality responses.
• Give conflicting instructions: This confuses Copilot and reduces response quality.
• Interrupt or change topics abruptly: Finish one task before starting another for smoother responses.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering Copilot and getting the precise responses you need. Remember, it’s all about clear, detailed, and respectful communication. With the right prompts, Copilot transforms from a simple tool into a powerful ally, capable of enhancing your productivity and creativity. So, go ahead and start experimenting with your prompts. You’ll be amazed at how much more efficient and effective your workday becomes.

Ready to see how Copilot can take your business to the next level?

Book your 1:1 Copilot discovery workshop today! This personalised session is your key to unlocking Copilot’s full potential and driving real success for your business.