A **show mouse pointer** command makes your cursor visible on-screen. This feature is useful when the pointer disappears during presentations or video playback.
Operating systems hide the cursor automatically after a few seconds of inactivity to reduce distractions. The "show mouse pointer" function forces it to reappear. On Windows, jiggling the mouse or moving it to a screen corner reveals it. MacOS users can waggle the mouse or enable an animated pointer trail.
The method varies by device:
| Device | Method |
|---|---|
| Windows PC | Move the mouse to any screen corner |
| MacOS | Waggle the mouse or enable pointer trail in System Settings |
| Android Tablet | Tap the screen twice quickly |
| iPad | Shake the device or tap with two fingers |
Some believe the pointer disappears due to software bugs, but it's usually an intentional design choice. Another myth is that the pointer is permanently hidden during full-screen mode, though most systems provide ways to reveal it.
I once helped a client set up a conference room display. The mouse kept vanishing during slideshows until we enabled the corner-reveal feature. The solution was simple, but many users don't realize it exists.
On Windows, go to Settings > Devices > Mouse and enable "Hide cursor while typing." On MacOS, open System Settings > Accessibility > Display & Mouse and turn on "Shake mouse pointer to locate." For Android, check Settings > Accessibility > Pointer assistance.
These settings ensure your cursor stays visible when you need it most.