Can a microsoft keyboard work with my macbook pro?

It will work just fine but it does not have the specific Apple/Mac keys, like the Command key. Also some keys on a Windows keyboard may do different things on a Mac from what they do on a Windows PC. Like the Alt/Option key on a Mac keyboard may not be the Alt key on a Windows keyboard. Not sure, don't remember as I haven't used a Win keyboard on a mac in many months.

But you can use other keys or key combo to give you the same functions. You just have to do trial and error until you find the right key or combo of keys.

What happened when you tried it?

Using another USB or Bluetooth keyboard may not work, but it will not damage anything.

Why would you want to use a detached keyboard anyway when the MBP has a perfect one already there built-in?