instructions

Create custom GitHub Copilot instruction files with YAML frontmatter and Markdown structure.

Updated Jan 23, 2026

Search Tags:#developer tools #github #code generation #guidelines #instructions #copilot

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/pingqLIN/skill-0 --skill instructions

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: instructions
Source: https://github.com/pingqLIN/skill-0/tree/main/converted-skills/instructions
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/pingqLIN/skill-0 --skill instructions

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill provides developers with clear, actionable guidelines to create high-quality custom instruction files for GitHub Copilot, ensuring domain-specific code generation and adherence to project conventions.

Core Features & Use Cases

Structured Guidance: Offers a template and best practices for writing effective Copilot instructions.
Best Practices: Details on frontmatter, file structure, content style, and common patterns.
Use Case: A new developer joins a project and needs to write custom instructions for Copilot to generate React components according to the team's specific style guide. They use this Skill to understand the required format and content for their react-components.instructions.md file.

Quick Start

Create a new instruction file following the structure and guidelines provided.

Frequently Asked Questions about instructions

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema

How do I write custom instructions for GitHub Copilot?▼

To write custom Copilot instructions, you must create a Markdown file utilizing YAML frontmatter definitions to provide domain-specific context and project conventions. This file acts as a trigger to guide AI code generation.

What is the best way to structure a Copilot instructions file?▼

The best way to structure Copilot instructions is adhering to YAML frontmatter definitions and Markdown structuring for clarity and maintainability. This file format ensures domain-specific code generation aligns with project conventions.

Do I need specific formatting for GitHub Copilot instruction files?▼

Yes, Copilot instruction files require specific formatting utilizing YAML frontmatter definitions and Markdown structuring. This structure guarantees the guidelines are parsed correctly to enhance AI-assisted code generation.

When do I need custom instructions for GitHub Copilot code generation?▼

You need custom Copilot instructions when aiming to enhance AI-assisted code generation with domain-specific context. This ensures the generated code adheres to your team's specific style guide and project conventions.

Why does Copilot ignore my project's code generation guidelines?▼

Copilot ignores guidelines if custom instruction files lack proper YAML frontmatter definitions and Markdown structuring. Following established guidelines for frontmatter, file structure, and content style ensures your conventions are recognized.