Copilot Gets Smarter: Microsoft Lays Out How to Use Prompt & Instruction Files

Microsoft has published guidelines for two new file-types — Instruction Files and Prompt Files — designed to help developers give Copilot clear rules and context when generating code. Learn what are they, when to use them, and how to use them.

Instruction Files

• What are they?

  Instruction files often named copilot-instructions.md defines the rules, coding standards, or guidelines Copilot should follow when generating code in your repo or workspace.

• When to use?

  Perfect for team projects or open-source repos to keep Copilot’s suggestions aligned with org standards and naming conventions.

• How to use?

  Create your file from a sample or scratch. Save it in .github/ or add file-type-specific instructions in .github/instructions/. Copilot automatically applies them to every request.

Prompt Files

• What are they?

  Prompt files provide context for a specific coding session or file, steering Copilot’s output for a targeted task.

• When to use?

  Great for prototyping, custom algorithms, integrations, compliance requirements, or onboarding new team members needing explicit guidance.

• How to use?

  Draft your prompt and place it in .github/prompts/ as [promptname].prompt.md. In VS Code type /[promptName] in chat, or in Visual Studio type #[promptName] to activate.