A trackpad is a flat, touch-sensitive surface on a laptop computer that you use to control the cursor on the screen. Instead of moving a mouse around on your desk, you slide your finger across the trackpad, and the cursor moves in the same direction. You can press down on the trackpad to click, just like pressing a mouse button.

Trackpads work through sensors that detect where your finger touches and how it moves. Modern trackpads recognize different gestures: swiping with two fingers might scroll through a page, pinching might zoom in or out, and tapping with three fingers might open special features. These multi-touch capabilities make trackpads surprisingly powerful, even though they take up almost no space.

The trackpad was invented in the 1980s as laptops became popular. Before trackpads, some laptops used tiny joysticks or awkward rolling balls, but trackpads proved more reliable and easier to use. Today, nearly every laptop has one built right into the keyboard deck.

Some people prefer using a separate mouse for detailed work like drawing or gaming, but trackpads excel at portability. You can use your laptop anywhere without needing extra equipment or desk space.