vscode-agent-rules

Create VS Code Copilot instruction and prompt templates with YAML frontmatter.

Updated Jan 30, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/ziltorian/instructions --skill vscode-agent-rules
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: vscode-agent-rules
Source: https://github.com/ziltorian/instructions/tree/main/.github/skills/vscode-agent-rules
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/ziltorian/instructions --skill vscode-agent-rules

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill provides a structured approach to creating and standardizing VS Code Copilot custom instruction files (.instructions.md) and prompt templates (.prompt.md), ensuring consistent frontmatter, formatting, and organization across projects.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Auto-generates and enforces YAML frontmatter for both instruction and prompt files to ensure consistent metadata.
  • Defines workspace and user-level locations for instructions (.github/instructions) and prompts (.github/prompts), enabling scalable reuse and onboarding.
  • Includes clear file-organization patterns and formatting guidelines to support maintainable AI-assisted coding workflows.

Quick Start

Create standardized VS Code Copilot instruction and prompt files for a project and place them under the proper .github/instructions and .github/prompts locations.

Frequently Asked Questions about vscode-agent-rules

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I create standard VS Code Copilot instruction files with YAML frontmatter?

Create VS Code Copilot instruction files (.instructions.md) by using standardized YAML frontmatter templates. This ensures consistent metadata, predictable tooling automation, and proper formatting across your projects.

Where should I place VS Code Copilot prompts and instructions for workspace-level organization?

Place VS Code Copilot prompts and instructions under .github/prompts and .github/instructions respectively. This workspace-level and user-level organization enables scalable reuse and easier project onboarding.

What is the best way to standardize Copilot prompt templates across multiple projects?

Standardize Copilot prompt templates (.prompt.md) by enforcing YAML frontmatter validation and applying consistent file naming patterns. These formatting conventions support maintainable AI-assisted coding workflows.

Can I use YAML frontmatter validation for both Copilot instructions and prompt files?

Yes, YAML frontmatter validation is implemented for both instruction and prompt files. This enforces consistent metadata formatting and supports reliable adoption across different project environments.

Why do my VS Code Copilot custom instructions have inconsistent formatting?

Inconsistent formatting happens without defined conventions for Copilot custom instructions. Applying pattern-based file naming guidelines and frontmatter validation resolves this by enforcing standardized metadata and structure.

Do I need specific file naming patterns for VS Code Copilot instruction templates?

Yes, using pattern-based file naming guidelines for VS Code Copilot instruction templates is recommended. This supports maintainable organization and predictable automation when integrating AI-assisted coding workflows.