Copilot New Instructions.prompt

---
description: Scaffold a new scoped custom instructions file (*.instructions.md)
name: New Instructions File
agent: Copilot Customization Builder
tools: ['search', 'edit/editFiles']
---
# New Instructions File

Create a new `*.instructions.md` file with an `applyTo` glob.

## Inputs

- Instructions file slug (filename, without `.instructions.md`): `${input:instructionsSlug}`
- applyTo glob (example: `**/*.py`): `${input:applyToGlob}`
- Short purpose line (what it enforces): `${input:instructionsPurpose}`
- Location (`workspace` or `user`): `${input:instructionsLocation}`

## Instructions file types

VS Code supports multiple types of instructions files:

| Type | Location | Scope |
|------|----------|-------|
| `.github/copilot-instructions.md` | Workspace root | All chat requests |
| `*.instructions.md` | `.github/instructions/` or user profile | File-pattern scoped via `applyTo` |
| `AGENTS.md` | Workspace root (or subfolders with experimental setting) | All agents in workspace |
| `CLAUDE.md` | Workspace root, `.claude/`, or `~/.claude/` | Claude-compatible always-on instructions |
| `.claude/rules/*.md` | Workspace `.claude/rules/` | Claude Rules format (uses `paths` glob array, not `applyTo`) |
## Requirements

1. Create the file at the appropriate location:
   - Workspace: `.github/instructions/${input:instructionsSlug}.instructions.md`
   - User profile: Use the `Chat: New Instructions File` command and select "User profile"
2. Use YAML frontmatter with these fields:
   - `applyTo` (optional): Glob pattern for auto-application (e.g., `**/*.py`). If omitted, must be attached manually.
   - `description` (optional): Short description of the instructions file
   - `name` (optional): Display name in UI (defaults to filename)