Abstract: This mine roof tool bit insert, formed from a flat elongated body, provides opposed side faces, opposed end faces, a bottom face, opposed top faces and opposed intermediate faces disposed between associated top faces and end faces, the body forming identical halves rotating about a central axis. Each half includes a top cutting edge an intermediate cutting edge and end cutting edge. The top face, intermediate face and end face are planar and are rearwardly inclined to provide a constant relief angle. The intermediate cutting edge is inclined relative to a plane normal of the axis of rotation at an angle greater than that of the top cutting edge. The method of drilling a hole in a mine roof using a bit insert of this character includes positioning the insert, rotating the insert at about 200 to 1000 rpm and applying a thrust of about 1000 to 8000 lbs. to the insert.