Copilot Memory & Instructions

With Microsoft 365 Copilot, artificial intelligence is not only becoming more powerful – but also more personal. Two new features ensure you have to repeat yourself less and that Copilot understands you better: Copilot Memory and Custom Instructions.

What is Copilot Memory?

Copilot Memory remembers information that you consciously share with it – for example:

«I prefer bullet points in my texts.»
«I’m currently working on the onboarding agent for M365.»
«Please remember that I use Python for data science.»

This information is stored and taken into account in future responses. That way, you don’t have to start from scratch each time – Copilot knows your context and delivers more relevant results.

Example: Simple, short-term commands like «Create a list of 10 names» or «Sort these numbers» are not stored in memory and therefore don’t affect future prompts.

What are Copilot Instructions?

With Instructions, you give Copilot clear guidelines on how it should work. You define your preferred style, tone, and format – for example:

«Always use "ss" instead of "ß".»
«Avoid using dashes.»
«Keep emails short and professional.»
«Be friendly but direct.»

These settings automatically apply to all future interactions. Whether in Outlook, Word, or Teams – your preferences, company language, and tone can be defined once and reused consistently.

When Should I Use Which?

Important: You can also use Instructions in the new Outlook, but they must be set up separately.

Outlook Settings

Control & Transparency

You remain in full control at all times:

You’ll be notified when Copilot saves something new («Memory updated»).

You can view, edit, or delete stored information.

Memory can be completely disabled – both individually and at the organizational level.

Overall conclusion

Copilot Analyst is a powerful assistant – if used correctly

With Copilot Memory and Instructions, your AI assistant becomes not only more efficient but also much more personal. Fewer repetitions, more relevance, and a tone that fits your style.

Reality Check: From a general perspective, we recommend using the Instructions feature rather than Memory. When using Memory, statements might be saved that weren’t meant to be permanent. Instructions, on the other hand, are applied more consistently and reliably – ensuring full control over style and communication.

Try it now and take your Copilot to the next level!

Copilot Memory & Instructions: How Your AI Assistant Truly Becomes Personal

What is Copilot Memory?

What is Copilot Memory?

What are Copilot Instructions?

When Should I Use Which?

Control & Transparency

Overall conclusion

Copilot Analyst is a powerful assistant – if used correctly

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