what context needed

what context needed

Ask Copilot what files it needs to see before answering a question

The skill

# What Context Do You Need?

Before answering my question, tell me what files you need to see.

## My Question

{{question}}

## Instructions

1. Based on my question, list the files you would need to examine
2. Explain why each file is relevant
3. Note any files you've already seen in this conversation
4. Identify what you're uncertain about

## Output Format

```markdown
## Files I Need

### Must See (required for accurate answer)
- `path/to/file.ts` — [why needed]

### Should See (helpful for complete answer)
- `path/to/file.ts` — [why helpful]

### Already Have
- `path/to/file.ts` — [from earlier in conversation]

### Uncertainties
- [What I'm not sure about without seeing the code]
```

After I provide these files, I'll ask my question again.

How to install it

1. Open the tool and start a new conversation, project or template.
2. Paste the text below wherever the tool keeps standing instructions
   — usually called system prompt, instructions, or persona.
3. Save it so it applies to every run rather than a single message.

Did it work for you?

Where it came from

GitHub, Inc. and contributors MIT The original

GitHub, Inc.