Mastering Microsoft Copilot Prompting

Introduction

• Importance of crafting quality prompts for AI response.
• Overview of the video and its partnership with Microsoft.

What is a Prompt?

• Definition: A set of instructions or questions for Copilot.
• Example: Like asking a cookie store what cookie you want when stating you are hungry.

Using Microsoft Copilot

• Navigate to copilot.microsoft.com to start using Copilot.
• Example: Creating marketing copy for Kevin Cookie Company.

Initial Prompt Example

• Goal: Marketing copy for a new cookie.
• Initial Prompt: "I want marketing copy."
• Outcome: Insufficient details, Copilot requests more information.

Adding More Detail

• Revised Prompt:
  • "I want marketing copy for the Kevin Cookie Company. Please highlight our new cookie, the Double Chocolate Chip Cookie..."
• Outcome: Improved response with structure, includes subject and reasons for purchasing.

Incorporating Expectations

• Additional expectations: Use simple language (5th-grade level) and include humor.
• Revised Prompt:
  • "Use simple language that a fifth grader could read and include some humor. Keep it to less than 200 words."
• Outcome: Further improvement in the output, humor included, language simplified.

Including Differentiators

• Final Prompt: Include specific differentiators from a document.
• Process: Drag and drop the file into the prompt.
• Outcome: Incorporation of differentiators into the marketing message.

Recap of Prompt Structure

1. Goal: Start with the main objective.
2. Context: Provide necessary details.
3. Expectations: State what you want in the tone and format.
4. Source Material: Attach any relevant documents for reference.

Tips for Prompting

• First prompt is just the start; it can be refined through conversation.
• Better prompts save time and yield better responses.
• Explore Copilot features through Microsoft 365 apps (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams).

Finding Inspiration for Prompts

• Sample Prompts: Access through the Copilot pane in Microsoft apps.
• Categories: Various categories available for different tasks like creating presentations, summarizing documents, etc.
• Copilot Lab: Comprehensive list of prompts available for exploration.

Examples of Using Copilot in Different Applications

• Excel: Generate formula suggestions, extract data.
• Outlook: Draft emails, set out-of-office replies.

Recommendations

• Start experimenting with prompts to understand Copilot's capabilities.
• Check out the Copilot lab for guides on powerful prompts.
• Enroll in free Microsoft Copilot training for various roles (HR, finance, marketing, etc.) to enhance skills.

Conclusion

• Encouragement to subscribe for more content on Copilot.