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GitHub Copilot Instructions vs Prompts vs Agents
pwd9000 (DEV) April 23, 2026
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Understanding the differences between instructions, prompt files, custom agents, and skills in GitHub Copilot for optimal configuration.
Rule Content
GitHub Copilot Configuration Hierarchy: 1. **Custom Instructions** (.github/copilot-instructions.md) - Repository-wide context - Always active for all Copilot interactions - Coding standards, conventions, tech stack 2. **Prompt Files** (.github/prompts/*.md) - Reusable prompt templates - Invoked on demand - Task-specific workflows 3. **Custom Agents** (@workspace extensions) - Specialized assistants with defined capabilities - Can access specific tools and APIs - Scoped to particular domains 4. **Skills** (built-in capabilities) - Code completion, chat, inline suggestions - Cannot be customized directly - Enhanced by instructions and context Key Rule: Instructions set the baseline, prompts define tasks, agents provide specialization.
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