Copilot can write AND edit your Outlook emails in your voice — but only if you turn on and customize four settings most people never open.

Where to find them: In the Outlook desktop app, go to File → Settings → Copilot. You'll see four tabs: Preferences, Prioritize, Draft instructions, and Calendar instructions.

1. Preferences — Turn Copilot on. This activates summaries, drafting, and coaching inside Outlook.
2. Prioritize — Let Copilot flag high-priority mail on arrival, and use Customize to add your own higher/lower priority rules (people, topics, or mail types).
3. Draft instructions (the game-changer) — Turn on "Use custom instructions when drafting email," then paste your voice. These apply to every draft and every revision, so Copilot stops sounding like a robot.
4. Calendar instructions — Create instructions Copilot follows on your calendar; use View instructions and View actions to see what it did, and Needs attention to resolve anything important.

Ready-to-paste draft instructions (make it your own): Write in a clear, professional, and human tone. Assume the reader is intelligent and busy. Be concise, thoughtful, and direct. Use clean formatting and bullets when appropriate. Avoid filler language. Close with confidence and warmth. Apply these instructions to all revisions of the draft.

Watch the walkthrough below, and download the one-page setup card to keep at your desk.