Tech Desk 
Jun 24, 2024
Microsoft Copilot is emerging as a powerful artificial intelligence (AI) platform, integrating seamlessly with Windows 11, Microsoft 365, Bing Search, and the Edge Browser. Built on OpenAI’s GPT-4, Copilot offers user-friendly features, especially for those working with personal data.
With the introduction of Copilot+PCs and on-device AI generation, it is set to become an integral part of everyday computing.
7 prompts of Microsoft Copilot
Gadinsider explores practical ways to utilise Microsoft Copilot through a series of descriptive prompts designed to enhance productivity and creativity.
1. Achieving work-life balance: Schedule template
To create a detailed weekly schedule for a busy professional seeking better work-life balance, use the following prompt:
“Create a detailed weekly schedule template for a busy professional who wants to improve their work-life balance. Include time blocks for work tasks, personal development, exercise, family time, and leisure activities. Suggest specific time management techniques to maximize productivity during work hours. Add tips for maintaining boundaries between work and personal life, especially for those working from home. Include spaces for daily reflection and weekly goal-setting. The schedule should be flexible enough to adapt to unexpected events while still maintaining structure. Provide ideas for quick, healthy meals that fit into a busy lifestyle. Lastly, add motivational quotes or reminders throughout the schedule to encourage sticking to the plan.”
The generated schedule includes a day-by-day breakdown, time management tips, and healthy meal suggestions like kimchi fried rice.
2. Crafting a team email: Company picnic announcement
For drafting an engaging email about an upcoming company picnic, try this prompt:
“Help me draft a friendly and engaging email to my team of 15 people, announcing our upcoming annual company picnic. The email should include key details such as the date (July 15), time (11am to 4pm), and location (Sunset Park). Mention that we'll have catered barbecue, lawn games, and a talent show. Remind everyone to bring sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and a dish to share if they'd like. Include a note about parking and carpooling options. The tone should be excited and inviting, encouraging team bonding and relaxation.”
The AI generates a detailed, friendly email covering all necessary details and maintaining an inviting tone.
3. Storytelling: Sentient coffee mug
For a whimsical short story, use this prompt:
“Write a short, whimsical story (about 300 words) from the perspective of a sentient coffee mug named Chip experiencing its first day in a busy tech startup office. Describe Chip's observations of human behaviours, its interactions with other office supplies, and its mission to become the favorite mug of the new intern. Include humourous misunderstandings about human customs and a heartwarming moment of connection. End with a hint of Chip's future adventures in the office.”
The resulting story features Chip, a sentient mug, navigating office life and aspiring to become the favorite mug of a new intern named Emma.
4. Meal planning: Family of four
To generate a weekly meal plan for a family, use this prompt:
“Generate a comprehensive weekly meal plan for a family of four, focusing on simple, healthy recipes that can be prepared in 30 minutes or less. Include a variety of cuisines to keep things interesting. For each day, provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, with at least two vegetarian meals per week. Add snack suggestions and one 'treat' meal for the weekend. Accompany the meal plan with a detailed shopping list organised by grocery store sections (produce, dairy, meats, etc.). Also, include tips for meal prep that can be done on Sunday to save time during the week.”
The AI provides a variety of meal options, including a detailed shopping list and meal prep tips.
5. Simplifying concepts: Photosynthesis for kids
To explain complex concepts to children, use this prompt:
“Explain the concept of photosynthesis as if you were teaching a curious 10-year-old. Use simple, engaging language and creative analogies that a child can relate to. Compare the process to something familiar, like a factory or a kitchen. Break down the key components: sunlight, water, carbon dioxide, and chlorophyll. Describe how these elements work together to create food for the plant and oxygen for the environment. Include a fun fact about photosynthesis that might surprise a young learner. Finish with a simple experiment they could do at home to observe photosynthesis in action.”
The AI provides a kid-friendly explanation and a simple experiment to observe photosynthesis.
6. Travel planning: Paris itinerary
For creating a detailed travel itinerary, use this prompt:
“I'm planning a three-day trip to Paris for a couple celebrating their 5th anniversary. Create a detailed itinerary that balances major attractions with local experiences. Include recommendations for morning, afternoon, and evening activities each day. Suggest iconic sites like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre, but also include lesser-known gems like hidden cafes or local markets. Recommend restaurants ranging from classic French bistros to modern fusion cuisine. Include at least one romantic experience, like a Seine river cruise or a picnic in a scenic spot. Provide tips for using public transportation and the best times to visit popular attractions to avoid crowds. End with a list of useful French phrases for travelers.”
The AI delivers a comprehensive itinerary, balancing major attractions with local experiences and practical travel tips.
7. Creative design: Steampunk bicycle
To generate creative designs and descriptions, use these two prompts:
First, the image: “Create an image of a steampunk-inspired bicycle designed for a Victorian-era explorer. The bicycle should feature brass gears, leather accents, and intricate clockwork mechanisms. Include unique additions like a built-in compass, a small steam engine, and expandable storage compartments.”
Then, the description: “Write a 150-word product description for this bicycle as if it were being sold in an 1890s adventure equipment catalog. Use period-appropriate language and emphasise both its practical features for exploration and its aesthetic appeal to the discerning gentleman or lady adventurer. Mention its durability for various terrains and any special maintenance requirements."
The AI generates a steampunk bicycle design and a detailed product description suitable for an 1890s catalog.
