LibGuides: Technology: Microsoft Office Resources

Need help with technology?

Contact the Service Desk:

Office 365

Download Office 365 Suite
Instructions accessing and downloading Office 365 for both NCUOne (one-to-one) and NU Brightspace (class-based).
JPG vs PNG Image Files
This job aid can be used to help students inserting image files into their Office documents.

LinkedIn Learning Office 365 Resources

Looking for more information on this topic? Check out the videos and courses offered through NU's LinkedIn Learning resource which is free to all current NU students.

How to Use Office 365

Haven't set up your account yet? Review the LinkedIn Learning LibGuide for more information.

Microsoft Word Resources

Formatting Microsoft Word Documents

Using Academic Writer
Video tutorial from the ASC on how to use Academic Writer.
ASC Word Formatting Resources
Visit the Academic Success Center to learn how to format Microsoft Word documents. This includes how to apply headings, insert page numbers, update the table of contents, and more!
Headers and Footers
Video tutorial from Microsoft.
Tables and Figures
Visit the Academic Success Center to learn about the components of a figure and table, including how to create an effective image, use a legend, write a caption, and constructing the table.
Word Self-Editing
Visit the Academic Success Center to learn how to set up a self-editing and proofreading feature in Microsoft Word.

Microsoft PowerPoint Resources

Basics

NU PowerPoint Template
PowerPoint Presentation Best Practices
Information from the GSSC on downloading PowerPoint through NCUOne and best practices for designing a presentation.

Putting PowerPoint Presentations into Action! - 09/13/23
Creating a Presentation
Video tutorial from Microsoft.
Add and Format Text
Video tutorial from Microsoft.

Designing A Presentation

Applying a Slide Layout
Video tutorial from Microsoft.
Adding Color and Designs
Video tutorial from Microsoft.
Using the Slide Master
Video tutorial from Microsoft.
Inserting Pictures
Video tutorial from Microsoft.
Adding Audio
Video tutorial from Microsoft.

Best Practices for PowerPoint Presentations

Presentation Guidelines

Text and Slides

Use a simple slide/background template. NU has a standard PowerPoint template available for use.
Use a minimum font size of 28PT for text.
Font should be sans serif, professional, and easy to read. Arial or Verdana are good choices.
Limit the amount of text on each slide.
The text should be supportive of what you are discussing: main point and/or keywords vs. a script.
Spell check your PowerPoint and read it out loud to yourself to check for errors.
Grammarly is available for free in the Academic Success Center (ASC) and can be added as an add-on to your computer.

Graphics

Utilize images, graphics, music, and videos to increase engagement.
Remember to explain any imagery for visually impaired audience members.
Do not go overboard with transitions or animation. Simplicity looks more professional.

Software

Make sure to use the latest version of the software.
The full MS Suite is available for free in the Student Technology Resource Center (located in the University Services module in NCUOne).