Copilot Chat: Prompt Ideas for NCU Employees

Not sure what to ask Microsoft Copilot Chat? Get prompt ideas for writing, summarizing, spreadsheets, and planning at NCU, plus tips for better results and what not to share.

Not sure what to ask Microsoft Copilot Chat? Here are prompt ideas North Central University employees can use for everyday work, plus a few tips for getting better answers. Sign in with your NCU account first. See Microsoft Copilot Chat at NCU.

Prompt ideas

Task	Try asking
Writing	"Rewrite this paragraph in plain language for new students: [paste]" "Draft a friendly reminder email about the [event] registration deadline."
Summarizing	"Summarize these notes into decisions and action items: [paste notes with names removed]"
Spreadsheets	"Write an Excel formula that counts rows where column B says Complete." "Explain what this formula does: [paste formula]"
Planning	"Suggest an agenda for a 30-minute team meeting about [topic]." "Make a checklist for setting up an orientation table."
Accessibility	"Suggest alt text for a chart showing [description]." "Turn this into a numbered list with clear headings: [paste]"
Learning	"Explain [term] in simple terms, with an example."

Get better answers

• Say who it's for. "For first-year students" or "for a department head" changes the tone.
• Say what you want back. A list, a table, three options, under 100 words.
• Give context. Paste the text you want improved instead of describing it.
• Keep going. Ask it to shorten, simplify, or try again.

Get help

Still need help? Call the IT Service Desk at 612.343.4170 or visit Miller Hall 226, Monday–Thursday, 7:30 a.m.–9 p.m.; Friday, 7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. CT.