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How to Locate Your Mouse Pointer in Ubuntu Linux

Richard
Written by
Richard
Sep 9, 2022 Updated Jul 14, 2026 2 min read
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Locating your mouse pointer in Ubuntu Linux is as simple as pressing the CTRL key on your keyboard.

This simple trick activates Ubuntu’s “Show mouse location” feature, which temporarily enlarges and highlights the area around your cursor. It’s a lifesaver when your small pointer disappears against a busy background or on a large, high-resolution screen.

Normally, Ubuntu’s mouse pointer is a small black arrow that can easily get lost. This can be frustrating, especially if you’re multitasking or have vision challenges.

By tapping CTRL, you instantly make the pointer stand out, so you never waste time searching for 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

The CTRL key on your keyboard activates a feature that helps you find your mouse pointer in Ubuntu Linux. Pressing the CTRL key causes your mouse pointer to briefly enlarge, making its location easy to see on your screen. You manage this pointer-finding feature within Ubuntu’s main System Settings.

Ubuntu Linux organizes most settings in a central location called the System Settings panel. Here, you can manage various system configurations, create new user accounts, and update your software.

Ubuntu Linux Activities overview menu screen
ubuntu linux activities overview

Alternatively, access these options from the System menu in the top-right corner of your desktop bar.

From the System menu, select Settings, as shown in the image below.

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

In the Settings app, click the Accessibility tile to open that section.

Ubuntu Linux Accessibility settings panel interface
ubuntu linux accessibility
⚠️Warning
In the System Settings -> Accessibility panel, look for Pointing & Clicking. Then, turn the Locate Point button to On to enable it.
Ubuntu Linux Locate Pointer toggle enabled Accessibility
ubuntu linux turn on locate pointer

To turn it off, flip the switch back to Off.

Once enabled, hold down the CTRL key, and you’ll see the pointer’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.

How do I locate my mouse pointer?

The following steps describe how to find your mouse pointer in Windows:

In Settings, select Devices. On the Devices screen, select Mouse in the left-hand column. Under Related settings in the right-hand panel, click Additional mouse options. In the Mouse Properties window, click the Pointer Options tab and look under Visibility.

How to get cursor in Ubuntu?

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How do I find the point where my cursor is?

For Ubuntu, open Mouse Properties, navigate to the Pointer Options tab, and check “Show location of pointer when I press the CTRL key.” Then select OK. Pressing the CTRL key will make Windows circle the pointer’s location.

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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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