Glossary Entry: Cursor
Quick Definition
A "cursor" is a graphic used to indicate to the user where new input will be placed.
In a text editor, the cursor is usually a blinking line or upright rectangle, showing where the next typed letter will appear. Other types of controls usually show they have the input focus by becoming highlighted or outlined.
The mouse cursor, also sometimes called the pointer or mouse pointer, is usually an arrow that shows where the user is about to click. The mouse cursor also frequently changes to show what will happen if the user clicks on something or if no mouse input is being accepted at that moment.
In a text editor, the cursor is usually a blinking line or upright rectangle, showing where the next typed letter will appear. Other types of controls usually show they have the input focus by becoming highlighted or outlined.
The mouse cursor, also sometimes called the pointer or mouse pointer, is usually an arrow that shows where the user is about to click. The mouse cursor also frequently changes to show what will happen if the user clicks on something or if no mouse input is being accepted at that moment.
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