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Meta Instructions.instructions

GPTClaudeGemini··857 copies·updated 2026-07-14
meta-instructions-instructions.prompt
---
applyTo: '.github/instructions/*.instructions.md'
description: Template and requirements for writing meta-instructions for Copilot. Every instruction must include an applyTo and description in its front-matter, and follow the documented structure and best practices.
---

# Meta-Instruction Template

## Purpose
Template and requirements for writing meta-instructions for Copilot. Every instruction must include an applyTo and description in its front-matter, and follow the documented structure and best practices.

## File Naming and Title Conventions
- Every meta-instruction file must begin with a clear, descriptive title as the first heading (e.g., "Meta-Instruction Template").
- The title must use sentence case and accurately reflect the file's purpose (e.g., "Meta-Instruction Template").
- The filename must be clear, descriptive, in English, use hyphens, and end with the `.instructions.md` extension.
- The title and filename should be consistent with each other and with the file's content.

## Structure
- **Front-matter**: YAML block with at least `applyTo` (file glob) and `description` (short summary of the instruction's intent), plus any relevant metadata (e.g., `type`, `scope`).
- **Sections**: Each instruction should include the following sections:
  - Title
  - Purpose
  - Rules or Guidelines
  - Best Practices
  - Examples (code or usage)
  - References (optional)

## Rules
- Instructions must be clear, actionable, and unambiguous.
- Use imperative language ("Do", "Use", "Avoid").
- Reference external standards or documentation when possible.
- If the instruction is technology-specific, state it explicitly in the front-matter and body.
- For process or workflow instructions, include step-by-step guidance.
- Every instruction front-matter **must** include an `applyTo` field (file glob) and a `description` field (short summary).

## Best Practices
- Keep instructions concise but comprehensive.
- Use lists and code blocks for clarity.
- Provide rationale for rules when relevant.
- Update instructions as standards evolve.

## Example

when to use it

Community prompt sourced from the open-source GitHub repo SebastienDegodez/copilot-instructions (Apache-2.0). A "Meta Instructions.instructions" style prompt — adapt the placeholders and specifics to your task. Imported as-is and not independently retested here, so check the output before relying on it.

tags

roleplaycommunitygeneral

source

SebastienDegodez/copilot-instructions · Apache-2.0