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How to Locate Your Mouse Pointer in Ubuntu Linux

Richard
Written by
Richard
Sep 9, 2022 Updated Mar 22, 2026 2 min read
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You can easily locate your mouse pointer in Ubuntu Linux by pressing the CTRL key, which triggers a visual spotlight effect.

This feature, often called “Show mouse location” or “Find my mouse,” helps you quickly pinpoint the cursor on your screen. It’s especially useful on high-resolution displays or when using multiple monitors.

Ubuntu’s default mouse pointer is typically small and black, making it difficult to spot, particularly if you have visual impairments or are working on a large desktop area.

Pressing CTRL temporarily enlarges and highlights the area around your cursor, ensuring you never lose track of it again.

⚡ Quick Answer

Press the CTRL key to reveal a visual spotlight around your mouse pointer. This feature, called “Locate Pointer,” is enabled in System Settings under Accessibility, in the Pointing & Clicking section.

How to find your mouse pointer fast on Ubuntu Linux

Windows 11 lets you quickly find your mouse pointer by circling it when you hit the CTRL key. Here’s how to set it up.

Ubuntu Linux has a centralized location for the majority of its settings. From system configurations to creating new users and updating, all can be done from the System Settings panel.

Ubuntu Linux Activities overview menu screen
ubuntu linux activities overview

Alternatively, click on the System menu at the top-right corner of the top bar on your desktop.

On the System menu, select Settings, as highlighted below.

Ubuntu Linux System menu Settings option top bar
ubuntu linux system menu top bar settings

In the Settings app, click on the Accessibility tile to open the panel.

Ubuntu Linux Accessibility settings panel interface
ubuntu linux accessibility

In the System Settings -> Accessibility panel, under Pointing & Clicking, toggle the Locate Point button to the On position to enable.

Ubuntu Linux Locate Pointer toggle enabled Accessibility
ubuntu linux turn on locate pointer

To disable it, toggle the switch back to the Off position.

When you hold down the CTRL key, it will show the pointer’s or cursor’s location.

That should do it! You can now close the Settings app.

Conclusion:

  • Enabling the Locate Pointer feature can help users quickly find the mouse pointer on Ubuntu Linux.
  • This feature is especially useful for individuals with poor vision or those using wide, high-resolution screens.
  • The CTRL key can be utilized to toggle the visibility of the pointer’s location, providing a convenient way to keep track of its position.

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Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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