Dandelion Applied AI
Want Microsoft 365 Copilot to remember useful details, write more naturally and ditch American spelling? Caroline Broadway, director of local AI training provider Dandelion Applied AI, shares her top tips to tailor it to your work style with two brand new features.
Rolling out now are custom instructions and Copilot memory, both of which help customise it by providing extra context. Microsoft have said everyone should have access in July 2025.
Here’s a quick overview:
- Custom instructions – give Copilot details and guidance to improve the quality of its responses
- Copilot memory – uses details from conversations and information from your work profile to provide more relevant responses.
These features can make a big difference – whether you’re using Copilot through your work account or have an extra licence Let’s get started with some practical quick wins:
Upload custom instructions
This is quick to set up:
- Click the three dots at the top right of your screen
- Select ‘Settings’ from the drop-down menu
- Under ‘Personalisation’ select ‘Custom Instructions’
- Write or paste your instructions in and check the toggle is on Not sure what to write? Try these as a starting point: • ALWAYS use UK English, spelling and grammar
- Match my tone and communication style (natural, not cheesy or overly polished)
- Do not use emojis or em dashes or en dashes under any circumstances. Use plain punctuation (e.g. full stops, commas, colons, hyphens) instead.
- Avoid overused or hype-driven words and phrases, including: “game-changing”, “unlock”, “seamless”, “automate”, “love”
- If a request is unclear or could be interpreted in multiple ways, ask clarifying questions before responding.
Want a more detailed example? I’ve shared my custom instructions on our blog: Finally, you can tell Copilot to use UK English
They don’t work perfectly - when I’ve been testing mine, an odd em dash has slipped through! But it is a major improvement.
Start adding memories
No more repeating the same facts. Copilot now lets you add memories.
You can:
- Accept suggestions Copilot makes to save new information
- Ask it directly – just say “add to memory” in your prompt
Copilot can also use your work profile – typically your name, role and organisation – to improve responses. You can check what it knows in your settings.
Refine and update regularly
Memories can go out of date, so it worth reviewing them regularly. Perhaps put a note in your diary once a month.
To review or delete:
- Click the three dots at the top right of your screen
- Select ‘Settings’ from the drop-down menu
- Under ‘Personalisation’ select ‘Copilot Memory’
- Click on the dustbin next to the memory you want to delete
NB: it deletes it straightaway, there’s no ‘are you sure’ prompt!
Want more tips and reviews of Microsoft 365 Copilot features?
We share practical advice each month in our Copilot Insider newsletter – packed with insights to help you get more from Microsoft 365 Copilot.
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