The mouse is a pointing device that comfortably fits in the palm of your hand. It is usually connected to your PC through a cable, and can rest on a mouse pad which gives the mouse better traction.

The mouse allows you to move the pointer or mouse cursor on the screen. As you move your mouse across the mouse pad, your mouse cursor moves accordingly.

The mouse generally has two buttons, although some have three. The Mac mouse only has one button. By clicking or pressing the left mouse button, you can perform specific actions such as selecting a menu.

Double clicking or clicking the left button twice very quickly allows you to start a program. Do not move the mouse when double clicking. Both clicks have to be in the same spot.

In Windows 95 and Windows 98, right clicking or clicking the right mouse button once will generally bring up the help function. The orientation of these buttons can be changed to accommodate either left or right-handed people.

You can drag items or data by holding the left mouse button down and moving the mouse at the same time. When your mouse is in its new location, release the left mouse button. Dragging moves something from one place to another and is used in painting and drawing software.

Newer mice have a wheel located in the middle of the two buttons. When you turn the wheel, the text on your screen will scroll up or down. This wheel can also be pressed, acting like a third mouse button.