Hi, Microsoft 365 Insiders! Whether you’re taking a couple weeks or just a few days, we want to share ways that Copilot can help you make the most out of your holiday time off.
Bring friends and family together with group activities
Maybe you want to gather with some friends or throw a small block party. Or maybe you already have plans to be with family but just can’t decide which activity is best to pass the time, or what to cook for a potluck. You can ask Copilot to conjure up some ideas based on your needs, the type of group, and your desired vibe.
Sample prompt
I want to throw a party with 4 of my neighbors on a Friday evening from around 5 PM to 10 PM at my home. We are all in our 30s and we enjoy live music, board games, and making cocktails. Can you suggest an itinerary for our evening that includes some appetizers, a playlist, and activities that are also holiday themed or festive for the holiday season?
Copilot’s answer
Sample prompt
My family has some free time on Christmas morning. Our ages range from 10 to 22. What are some things we can do to pass the time for an hour or so in the Baltimore area?
Copilot’s answer
Make the day special for yourself
Spending time alone over the holidays doesn’t have to be a drag! Copilot can offer up some suggestions for staying in, going out, or choosing between meals, movies, hobbies, or local events.
Sample prompt
I’m alone on New Year’s Eve and want to celebrate at home without feeling lonely. What are some activities I can do? I also want to make breakfast for dinner – do you suggest any recipes that are seasonally festive? What about a cozy TV show to pair with that meal?
Copilot’s answer
Sample prompt
I just moved to Atlanta and want to do something holiday-related by myself. What are some free or cheap events or activities under $50 I can do on Sunday, December 22nd?
Copilot’s answer
Send thoughtful messages and gifts to friends, family, colleagues, and others
The end of the year is a wonderful time to reflect on your best moments and relationships, and Copilot can help you craft the perfect message to send by email or card, or with a gift, to just about anyone. You’ll barely have to lift a finger to write something that feels personal and meaningful!
Sample prompt
I bought my mom a pair of nice oven mitts that she had always wanted. What’s a funny but appropriate note I can pair with my holiday gift?
Copilot’s answer
Sample prompt
I got my Uncle Steve for Secret Santa and don’t know what to get him. He’s really into fishing, golf, and IPAs, so I would love some suggestions for what to buy him that’s under $60. Could you also provide a message to go with it that shows how much I admire him as his nephew?
Copilot’s answer
Tips and tricks
As you draft your own prompts to plan your holiday season activities (and throughout the year!), use these tips to improve their effectiveness:
- Be specific: Instead of asking, “Tell me about holiday traditions,” you could ask, “How do different cultures celebrate Christmas around the world?”
- Provide context: If you’re asking for a recipe, mention any dietary restrictions or preferences: “Can you suggest a gluten-free dessert recipe for a holiday party?”
- Ask clear questions: Instead of a broad question like, “What should I do during the holidays?”, try, “What are some free holiday events in New York City in December?”
- Break down complex requests: If you have a multi-part question, break it into smaller parts: “First, can you explain the history of Christmas caroling? Then, how can I organize a caroling event in my neighborhood?”
- Use keywords: Include specific keywords related to your query: “What are the benefits of using Microsoft To Do for holiday planning?”
- Specify desired format: If you need a list, summary, or detailed explanation, mention that: “Can you provide a list of the top 5 holiday movies to watch with family?”
- Indicate your preferences: Let Copilot know if you have a preference for the type of information or tone. “Can you give me a brief, casual overview of the best holiday markets in Europe?”
- Provide examples: If you’re looking for creative ideas, give an example of what you like. “I need a funny note for a holiday gift, similar to, ‘I hope you enjoy this as much as I enjoy not cooking!’”
- Ask follow-up questions: If Copilot’s initial response isn’t quite what you need, ask a follow-up question to narrow down the information: “Can you give more details on the holiday events happening in San Francisco?”
- Be patient and iterative: Sometimes it takes a few tries to get the perfect response. Feel free to refine your prompt based on the initial answers you receive.
Wishing you all a merry and bright holiday season!
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