Abstract: A combination support and guide tool and a method for the installation of rectangular, flat ceiling panels or the like by a single person onto regularly spaced, parallel structural members of a building such as ceiling joists, the tool comprising an elongated rigid support plate and a guide plate which is connected at the leading edge of the support plate and forms a critical acute angle of panel insertion adapted to easily and safely slide the panel into place. The method comprises the use of such a support and guide tool to positively receive and guide both initial panels and subsequent panels into their required positions on the ceiling joists or similar structural members.