How to Set Up Copilot Generative Answers in Microsoft Copilot Studio

If you want to take your Microsoft Copilot chatbot to the next level, adding generative AI capabilities is the way to go. In this guide, we’ll show you how to configure generative answers in Copilot Studio, enabling your bot to deliver context-aware, intelligent responses using large language models (LLMs) and tailored knowledge sources. Whether you’re building a chatbot for FAQs, customer support, or business insights, this step-by-step guide will help you unlock its full potential.

What Are Generative Answers in Copilot?

Microsoft Copilot’s generative answers feature allows chatbots to provide dynamic responses by harnessing generative AI capabilities and LLMs. This goes beyond simple static replies, enabling your bot to:

• Process and understand user inputs contextually.
• Generate accurate, relevant answers using predefined knowledge bases or external data sources.

However, activating this feature isn’t as simple as toggling a checkbox. Additional configuration is required to fully enable generative responses. Let’s break it down.

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Generative Answers

1. Enable Generative AI in Copilot Studio

1. Open Copilot Studio and navigate to your chatbot project.
2. Click the Settings option in the top-right corner.
3. Go to the Generative AI tab.
4. Enable the generative AI setting.

Pro Tip: While enabling this setting is essential, it’s not enough to unlock the full generative AI potential. You still need to configure generative answer action nodes within your conversation flows.

2. Create a New Topic

To utilize generative AI, start by creating a new topic. Here’s how:

1. Click New Topic and give it a relevant name (e.g., “How Coffee is Made”).
2. Set up a trigger phrase that initiates the topic, such as “Tell me about coffee making.”

3. Add a Generative Answer Node

4. Define Knowledge Sources

By default, the generative answer node uses all available knowledge bases. However, you can refine it to reference only specific sources:

1. Check the box for Use Selected Knowledge Sources in the generative answer node settings.
2. Select the desired knowledge sources (e.g., Article A and Article B) from your system.

Scenario Example: If your chatbot only needs to reference articles about coffee production, select those articles exclusively to improve accuracy.

5. Add or Link Knowledge Sources

If no knowledge base is set up yet, follow these steps:

1. Go to your chatbot’s Knowledge Base Settings.
2. Add a source, such as your company’s website or a repository of FAQs.
3. Ensure the source is well-organized and up to date to avoid inaccurate responses.

6. Test Your Generative Answer Setup

1. Trigger the topic using your configured phrase.
2. Test how the chatbot responds to various user inputs.
3. Adjust your knowledge base or node settings if necessary to refine the responses.

Pro Tip: Use Microsoft’s documentation for additional insights on system variables like activity.text to ensure accurate data handling.

Key Benefits of Generative Answers in Copilot

By implementing generative answers in Copilot, you can:

• Enhance user engagement with smarter, context-aware responses.
• Tailor chatbot knowledge to specific business needs.
• Streamline setup with intuitive action nodes and knowledge base management.

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In Conclusion

Setting up generative answers in Microsoft Copilot Studio requires some initial configuration, but the results are well worth it. By enabling this feature and fine-tuning your chatbot’s knowledge sources, you’ll empower your Copilot to deliver intelligent, relevant responses that enhance user experiences.

Ready to transform your chatbot? Start configuring generative answers today and unlock the full potential of Microsoft Copilot Studio!

Thanks for reading. Happy Developing!