- To change certain aspects of the way your mouse functions, begin by going to the "Mouse Properties" dialog box. To get there, click the "Start" button and go to the "Control Panel" (you may have to click on "Settings" first, depending on which version of Windows you are using). On the "Buttons" tab, you can adjust your mouse speed or switch the right and left mouse buttons. On the "Pointers" tab, you can choose from different pointer themes. On the "Pointer Options" tab, you can adjust your mouse's visibility.
- The main types of mouse pointers are arrows, hands and hourglass shapes. However, by making changes to the "Mouse Properties," or by downloading special software, you can change the appearance of your mouse from anything from angels to zebra and everything in between. Another way to change your cursor is by changing your desktop theme. To do this, right click a blank area of the desktop and choose "Properties." Choose a new theme from the dropdown menu.
- You can choose to hide your mouse pointer while you are typing from the "Mouse Properties" window. However, if you do not want to hide your pointer but wish it would stay out of the way while you are typing, there is another option. You can download a free utility called "Mouse Away" that will automatically move the mouse pointer if it is in the way of your text. To install this utility, click on the link in the "Resources" section of this article.
- If your mouse pointer is very small, or your screen display has lots of text or graphics, you might lose sight of your mouse pointer. While you can usually wiggle it around until you finally see it, there is a simpler way to find it quickly. Go back to the "Mouse Properties" dialog box. On the "Pointer Options" tab, check the box that says "Show Location of Pointer When I Press the CTRL Key". Click "Apply" and "OK," and the next time you lose the mouse, all you need to do is press the "Ctrl" key on your keyboard.
- If your mouse pointer is behaving erratically, the first thing you should try is cleaning it. Rollerball or optical mice require different cleaning methods, so it is best to refer to your manufacturer's recommendations. If that does not help, go to the "Mouse Properties" dialog box. Click on the "Hardware" tab, and then click the "Properties" button. Depending on the version of Windows you are using, you will be able to check for problems and find suggestions for possible adjustments.
