Posted on Oct 31, 2025
It’s time for another Cook’n with GitHub Copilot ProTip, continuing our Context Engineering Recipes mini series.
Last time, you learned how the Persona Pattern gives Copilot a role to think like a pro.
Today’s recipe is the Reflection Pattern, it teaches Copilot to look in the mirror and explain its own reasoning. No magic potions required, just smarter prompts for deeper understanding.
And remember, GitHub Copilot does not ghost you, it just needs the right rephrase. 👻
1️⃣ Self Explanation
Prompt Copilot to explain how it reached a result.
Explain the reasoning behind this code suggestion, step by step.
Best for: Understanding non obvious logic or complex generated code.
2️⃣ Self Critique
Ask Copilot to review its own output before you do.
Review your previous answer. Identify any logical or security issues and suggest improvements.
Best for: Code audits, refactoring, or design reviews.
3️⃣ Reflection Before Rewrite
Get Copilot to evaluate before editing.
Before refactoring, explain what parts of this function are redundant or risky to change.
Best for: Safer rewrites and better context awareness.
4️⃣ Teach Back Mode
Have Copilot explain as if it were mentoring a new developer.
Explain this function to a junior developer and include why each step is needed.
Best for: Documentation, onboarding, and code walkthroughs.
Reflection prompts do not slow you down, they sharpen the reasoning.
If GitHub Copilot’s answer feels spooky vague, ask it why. You will get clarity instead of mystery.
The Reflection Pattern turns Copilot into your debugging sidekick, one that can explain its thoughts before you accept its help.
No haunted logic here, just transparent, confident collaboration.
Do you ever ask Copilot to explain its answers? Try the Reflection Pattern this week and share your favorite reflective prompts!