Master AI prompting

Two young adults sitting on a couch and practicing AI prompting on their Copilot+ PC

AI prompting is the art of communicating clearly with an AI companion, such as Microsoft Copilot, to get the results you want. Think of it as giving instructions to a very smart helper—one that can write, analyze, summarize, and even create. But just like with any AI assistant, the quality of the output depends on how well you explain what you need. Whether you're drafting emails, summarizing reports, or brainstorming ideas, knowing how to write a prompt effectively can dramatically improve your experience with Copilot. In this article, we’ll discuss how to optimize your prompts for better results.

How to write a prompt that works

When it comes to AI prompts, clarity is key. The most effective prompts, start with a clear goal, include relevant context, and are specific about the format or tone you want. Take, for example, the prompt “Summarize this.” While short, this prompt is not clear about what you want to summarize and could use some more specific direction. We can improve this prompt with something like the following: “Summarize this article in three main bullet points for a business audience.” This second version is not only more specific, but also gives Copilot relevant context, which will lead to better results.

Here are a few more tips for writing more effective AI prompts:

Avoid generic time references; instead, use specific dates to enhance precision.
Mention precise quantities or criteria when applicable (e.g., “five bullet points”).
Always proofread your prompt to ensure it is clear and straightforward.
Try experimenting with new wording to see what yields the best results for you.

AI prompt examples for everyday use

Ready to get started with Copilot? These examples show how natural and conversational your prompts can be. You don’t need to use technical language—just speak or type as you would to a friend. Here are a few prompt examples you can try out:

I’m getting back into personal fitness. Can you suggest five full body home exercises for a beginner?
My sister is starting college this fall, and I want to make her a recipe book. Suggest ten affordable vegetarian recipes that I can include.
I’m watching my younger cousins this weekend. What are three simple paper crafts appropriate for an 8-year-old and a 10-year-old?

A happy person typing prompts into Copilot on their Surface laptop

AI art created via Copilot

Go hands-free with Copilot Voice

One of the most exciting features of Copilot is Copilot Voice. This lets you interact with Copilot just by speaking your prompts out loud, making it even easier to ask questions, generate ideas, or summarize documents—completely hands-free. Whether you're multitasking or just prefer speaking to typing, Copilot Voice helps you stay productive without breaking your flow. For example, you can say:

Hey Copilot, what country music events are happening in my town this weekend?
I’m planning on visiting my family in Minneapolis this fall. What kinds of clothes should I pack for the weather?
My friend’s birthday is coming up next month. What are ten birthday gift ideas for someone who enjoys reading and road cycling?

Unlock Copilot’s full potential

Anyone can master AI prompting—it’s all about being intentional with your words. The more you practice, the better your results will be. Use natural language, provide context, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Whether you're typing or speaking, Copilot is designed to understand your intent and help you work smarter. Try Copilot today and unlock its full potential in your everyday life.

DISCLAIMER: Features and functionality subject to change. Articles are written specifically for the United States market; features, functionality, and availability may vary by region.