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Computers

Practise the mouse and keyboard

The mouse pointer shows where clicks act; the typing cursor shows where text appears. Practise with harmless content. Mouse buttons and trackpad gestures can be customised.

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Before you start

  • A mouse or trackpad you can use comfortably
  • A practice document or editable text box

Step 1 of 5: Move and click

Move the mouse gently and watch the pointer. Click the primary button once to select a control or place the typing cursor. A configured trackpad tap may do the same. Avoid holding the button unless you intend to drag.

Step 2 of 5: Try a double-click

Double-click a harmless folder in File Explorer to open it. Two quick primary clicks act together; clicking slowly can select or rename instead. Use Open or adjust settings if double-clicking is difficult.

Step 3 of 5: Explore the other button and wheel

Right-click, or use your device’s secondary-click gesture, to show a menu of choices. Close it with Escape. Move the wheel to scroll a page; many trackpads scroll with two fingers when that gesture is enabled.

Step 4 of 5: Type and correct

Click inside the practice document and type a short sentence. Space adds a gap, Enter begins a new line in many apps, and Backspace removes text before the cursor. Check Caps Lock if letters unexpectedly appear in capitals.

Step 5 of 5: Adjust comfort if needed

Windows settings can change pointer size and mouse behaviour. Accessibility options include an on-screen keyboard and Sticky Keys. Change one option at a time and test it rather than assuming the default controls suit everyone.

Try it for yourself

Your small practice task.

Type a sentence, correct one letter and scroll a harmless page.

Completing the guide records your progress here; it does not check your device settings.

A common question.

Can a key behave differently in another app?

Yes. Enter can submit a message instead of starting a line, for example. Read the app’s controls before using an important form.

Official help, if you need it.

These links provide the product’s own instructions or relevant public guidance. Settings can differ by model and software version.