AI Tips and Tricks

Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to computer systems that can perform tasks that usually require human thinking — like writing, summarizing, organizing data, or answering questions.

You’ve probably already used AI in tools like:

• Spellcheck and autocorrect

• Search engine suggestions

• Phone assistants like Siri or Alexa

We know conversations about AI can bring up real concerns. This page and the nano-session is designed to explore how AI can be used constructively—to support staff, reduce workload, and expand access to tools and information—not to replace workers or undermine expertise. The goal is to empower staff to engage with these technologies thoughtfully and critically, while continuing broader conversations about how new tools should be introduced in ways that respect and protect workers.

As these technologies become more common in higher education and the workplace, our goal is to ensure staff are informed, confident, and included in shaping how AI is used—not left behind. 

Check out this list of the best AI tools for things like writing, music, video, and design:

• 👉 Best AI Tools – TechRadar

A prompt is what you type into an AI tool like a chatbot to tell it what you want. Example: “Write a short, friendly email inviting students to a free workshop next week.”

It’s like giving instructions to a very helpful assistant. The clearer and more specific your prompt, the better the response you'll get.

1. ✂️ Make Something Shorter (or Clearer)

Try: “Rewrite this email to be shorter and easier to understand.” or “Simplify this paragraph for new students.”

2. 📚 Summarize Long Text

Try:“What are the key points of this document?" or “Summarize this update in 3 bullet points.”

3. 📝 Draft a First Version

Try: “Write a draft of an invitation to our student services fair.” or “Create a short bio for a speaker introduction.”

4. 🧹 Organize a List

Try: “Group these notes by topic.” or “Turn this into a checklist for setting up an event.”

5. 💡 Brainstorm Titles or Ideas

Try: “Give me 10 name ideas for a wellness newsletter.” or “What are some fun themes for Staff Appreciation Week?”

6. 📊 Write a Spreadsheet Formula

Try: “Column A is names, Column B is hours worked. I need a formula to total weekly hours.” or “Match email addresses in two tabs and flag the ones that don’t match.”

7. ✉️ Adjust the Tone of an Email

Try: “Make this message sound more professional but still friendly.” or “Rewrite this so it sounds confident, not defensive.”

AI tools are powerful, but they are not private or secure for sensitive information.

🚫 Do NOT enter:

• Student names or ID numbers

• Grades, health, or disability information

• Confidential employee or HR information

• Anything protected by FERPA or HIPAA
  
  

Treat AI like a public workspace — if you wouldn’t post it on a bulletin board, don’t put it in a prompt.