cursors

A cursor is a visual indicator in computing that marks the position where input will occur or a selectable object in a user interface. There are several types with different roles, most commonly divided into text cursors and pointing cursors.

A text cursor, also called an insertion point or caret, appears in text fields and editors to show where the next character will be inserted. It is typically a blinking vertical bar or underscore and may change shape in some terminals or editors to reflect the current mode or character set. In command-line interfaces, the cursor may appear as a block or underscore and can blink or remain static.

A pointing cursor, or mouse cursor, is the graphical image representing the pointing device. The default shape is usually an arrow, but it commonly changes to an I-beam when positioned over text, or to a hand over links. Systems may provide additional cursor shapes for different tools or accessibility options.

Hardware cursors are cursors rendered by the graphics hardware rather than the operating system or software, which can reduce CPU usage and improve performance on some configurations. In graphics, gaming, or design contexts, cursors may take the form of crosshairs, reticles, or other precision indicators.

Accessibility and usability considerations include ensuring cursors remain visible, allowing users to adjust size or contrast, and providing clear focus indicators for keyboard navigation. The term caret is often used for the text insertion point, while cursor can refer to either the text caret or the pointing device depending on context.