Guide Copilot with a single example

When to use one-shot prompts

• You already have a model answer or flashcard and want Copilot to match its style.
• You’re standardising notes across devices, networking, or security topics.
• You need Copilot to respect jargon level, tone, or formatting guidelines.

Pattern to follow

1. State the new task clearly.
2. Provide a single example enclosed in quotes or fenced formatting.
3. Highlight the aspects Copilot must copy—tone, length, layout, or vocabulary.

Sample one-shot prompts

• “Using the flashcard format below, create one for upgrading laptop RAM:
  Q: When should you calibrate a laptop battery?
  A: After full charge/discharge cycles, or when reported capacity drops suddenly.”
• “Match this summary style to outline the workflow for replacing a tablet display:
  Example: ‘To replace a smartphone battery…’ (include concise numbered steps).”
• “Mirror the tone of this policy reminder to write one about BYOD security:
  ‘Reminder: Lock screens after 5 minutes…’”

Workshop: copy the style

1. Select an existing flashcard, summary, or checklist you’ve written.
2. Identify what makes it effective—tone, structure, or key phrases.
3. Write a one-shot prompt that gives Copilot that example and asks for a new piece covering a related topic.
4. Compare the result to the original. Note any differences to emphasise in few-shot prompting (module 2.4).

Next steps