Does GitHub Copilot have Custom Instructions?

GitHub Copilot supports Custom Instructions. Set persistent, global rules for how the AI should behave or respond across all chats (e.g., always output Python code, or never use emojis). GitHub Copilot acts as an AI pair programmer, providing real-time autocomplete suggestions and conversational chat inside developer IDEs. Via .github/copilot-instructions.md

Tool

🐙 GitHub Copilot by GitHub

Feature

Custom Instructions · Memory & Context

Status

Yes

Notes

Via .github/copilot-instructions.md

Pricing

Available on the free plan.

Last verified

2026-08-05