Test Topic Skill

Guide manual validation of Copilot Studio topic trigger phrases and conversation paths.

25|8|Updated Apr 8, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/microsoft/Employee-Self-Service-Agent-Developer-Kit --skill test-topic-skill
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: Test Topic Skill
Source: https://github.com/microsoft/Employee-Self-Service-Agent-Developer-Kit/tree/main/solutions/ess-maker-skills/src/skills/topics/test
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/microsoft/Employee-Self-Service-Agent-Developer-Kit --skill test-topic-skill

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill addresses the lack of automated testing for Copilot Studio agent topics, requiring makers to manually verify that trigger phrases fire the correct conversation paths and variables bind as expected after editing topic content.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Manual Testing Guidance: Provides clear instructions for testing topics directly in the Copilot Studio test pane without additional tooling.
  • Conversation Path Validation: Helps makers confirm that edited topics trigger the correct node sequences and surface variable values for debugging failed paths.
  • Use Case: Use this Skill immediately after updating a topic's trigger phrases or conversation logic to catch errors before publishing the agent to end users.

Quick Start

Open your Copilot Studio agent, navigate to the Test pane, enter a trigger phrase for the topic you just edited, and review the conversation tree and variable values to confirm the correct path fires.

Frequently Asked Questions about Test Topic Skill

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I manually test Copilot Studio topic trigger phrases and conversation flows?

To manually test Copilot Studio topics, navigate to the test pane, enter your trigger phrase, and review the conversation tree to confirm the correct flow fires. This validates node sequences and surfaces variable values for debugging without automated tooling.

Why does my edited Copilot Studio topic trigger the wrong conversation path?

If an edited Copilot Studio topic triggers the wrong path, you need manual validation to confirm node sequences and variable binding. Enter the trigger phrase in the test pane to identify failed paths and inspect surfaced variable values for debugging.

Can I debug variable binding in Copilot Studio topics without an automated test runner?

Yes, you can debug variable binding without an automated test runner by using the Copilot Studio test pane. Manually enter trigger phrases to validate conversation flows and inspect variable values directly within the maker workflow.

What is the best way to validate employee self-service agent topics before publishing?

The best way to validate employee self-service agent topics before publishing is manual testing in the Copilot Studio test pane. Enter trigger phrases after editing topic logic to catch conversation flow errors and verify variable binding.

Do I need additional tooling to test Copilot Studio conversation flows?

No additional tooling is required to test Copilot Studio conversation flows. You can manually validate trigger phrases and variable binding directly in the test pane, satisfying pre-publication testing requirements without an automated test runner.