Copilot: AI prompt writing 101

Update January 23, 2024: At Microsoft, we are always updating and testing features to offer our users the best possible experiences as we experiment with new approaches to functionality. To improve the user experience and streamline our tools that empower creativity, Bing Image Creator is now Designer and Bing Chat is now Copilot. Create wow-worthy images with your words and AI with Designer, and try Copilot, your AI-powered search assistant for the web.

The information you can find and the things you can create with artificial intelligence (AI) are limitless when you harness the AI capabilities of Copilot. Whether you’re a seasoned AI enthusiast or just dipping your toes to try it, you’ll find out how easy it is to use these tools when you give Copilot detailed AI prompts. Learn the ins and outs of effective AI prompt writing so you can write them effectively the first time you try.

What is an AI prompt?

Simply put, an AI prompt is a command, question, request, or statement that is used to direct an AI tool like Copilot to generate the response, text, or image you want. The way you frame the AI prompt will determine the quality and relevance of the results you receive. Once you’ve mastered the art of AI prompt writing, the sky is the limit.

Tips for writing AI prompts

Writing effective AI prompts requires you to have a combination of creativity, precision, and clarity about results you want. Here are some tips and tricks to help you excel with your AI prompt writing in Copilot:

1. Be clear and specific

• Be explicit about the desired response format from Copilot, whether it's a paragraph, step-by-step instructions, or a list.
  • Example: "Please provide a step-by-step guide on how to bake a chocolate cake."
• Avoid generic time references; instead, use specific dates or years to enhance precision.
  • Example: "Share the latest financial market trends for the first quarter of 2023."
• Specify the context and details relevant to your request.
  • Example: "I'm planning a trip to Paris in June 2023. Can you suggest five must-visit attractions in the city during that time?"
• Ensure your prompt is to the point.
  • Example: "Summarize the key features of the new Surface laptop without any technical jargon."
• Incorporate any constraints or preferences to narrow down the AI's response.
  • Example: "Give me a list of vegetarian restaurants in New York City that offer outdoor seating."
• Include a clear request for information, action, or recommendation.
  • Example: "Recommend five action-packed adventure movies released in 2023 that are available for streaming."
• Mention specific quantities or criteria when applicable.
  • Example: "Provide a list of at least ten famous historical figures from the 18th century."
• Make your prompt goal-oriented and practical.
  • Example: "I'm planning to renovate my kitchen. Please outline a budget estimate and a checklist of essential items I'll need."
• Clearly define the scope of your request to guide the AI's response.
  • Example: "Explain the concept of quantum computing in a concise, beginner-friendly manner."
• Always proofread your prompt to ensure it is well-structured and free from ambiguity.
  • Example: "Summarize the key findings from the climate change report published by the IPCC in October 2022."

2. Include context

• Include relevant context to help Copilot understand your request.
  • Example: "I have a job interview next week. Please give me tips on how to prepare and answer common interview questions."
• Be specific in your prompts and avoid vague language.
  • Example: "I'm looking for a simple pasta recipe using ingredients I have at home. Can you suggest a tomato-based pasta dish?"
• Clearly outline the task or information you need from Copilot.
  • Example: "I'm planning a road trip from New York to Florida. Can you provide a list of interesting places to visit along the way?"
• Share any constraints or preferences to narrow down the AI's response.
  • Example: "I'm allergic to nuts. Please suggest some nut-free dessert recipes for a dinner party."
• Use natural language and a friendly tone to foster a better interaction with Copilot.
  • Example: "Tell me about the best sci-fi books you've heard of. I'm a big fan of the genre and need some new reads."
• Ask for guidance, instructions, recommendations, or explanations as appropriate.
  • Example: "Explain the concept of blockchain technology in a way that's easy to grasp for a beginner like me."
• Ensure your prompt conveys your intent and what you expect Copilot to deliver.
  • Example: "Help me create a weekly workout plan that includes cardio and strength training."

3. Experiment

• Copilot isn’t only helpful in finding new recipes or forms of entertainment, but it’s also useful in planning vacations, getting personalized advice, translating foreign text, and more. Experiment with Copilot by finding new ways to use it throughout your day at home, work, and beyond.
  • Example: "I need ideas for a romantic date night at home. Suggest creative activities, dinner recipes, and a romantic playlist."
• Tailor your prompts to various scenarios in your daily life.
  • Example: "I'm working on a presentation about renewable energy. Can you help me gather recent statistics and compelling facts on solar power?"
• Seek personalized advice or recommendations for your specific needs.
  • Example: "I have a job interview tomorrow. Provide tips on dressing professionally and handling common interview questions."
• Request assistance with tasks like translation or calculations.
  • Example: "Translate this English text into Spanish: 'Hello, how can I help you today?'"
• Experiment with different output formats for your information needs.
  • Example: "Can you provide a list of the top 10 sci-fi novels of all time, along with their average reader ratings in a downloadable spreadsheet?"
• Continuously explore new ways to use Copilot in your daily routines.
  • Example: "I'm hosting a virtual trivia night. Help me come up with a set of challenging trivia questions on famous landmarks."
• Be creative and open-minded in your requests.
  • Example: "Share interesting historical facts about ancient civilizations, focusing on their architectural achievements."
• Challenge Copilot with diverse tasks to discover its capabilities.
  • Example: "Find inspirational quotes from famous philosophers and match each quote with a relevant image for a motivational poster."

4. Use relevant keywords

• Incorporate relevant keywords or phrases to clarify your intent in the AI prompt.
  • Example: "I need advice on planting roses in my garden. What are the best soil conditions and care tips for growing hybrid tea roses?"
• Keywords help Copilot understand your preferences and deliver more accurate results.
  • Example: "I'm looking for an action-adventure video game for my gaming console. Which titles have open-world exploration and intense combat?"
• When choosing paint colors or products, use specific keywords to get better results.
  • Example: "I want to repaint my bedroom in a serene blue shade like a clear sky. Suggest popular interior paint colors and brands that match this description."
• In professional contexts, use industry-specific terms to refine your AI prompts.
  • Example: "I'm researching cloud computing trends in the IT industry. Provide recent reports and articles on the topic."
• Keywords help narrow down your search and get the information you need faster.
  • Example: "I'm a photography enthusiast. Show me reviews and prices for DSLR cameras with low-light performance."
• When discussing technology or software, use technical terms relevant to your task.
  • Example: "I'm troubleshooting network connectivity issues. Guide me through diagnosing and resolving IP address conflicts."
• Inquire about products or services with keywords that identify your specific requirements.
  • Example: "I'm planning a wedding and need a catering service. Recommend local caterers specializing in vegan wedding menus."

Once you know what an AI prompt is and how to write one, a world of possibility opens to you. By applying these tips to write detailed, well-structured prompts, you can harness the power of AI and use these tools to receive accurate and relevant answers fast. Try Copilot to master using AI for your everyday needs.