Introduction to JAWS Cursor Navigation
For screen reader users, JAWS provides powerful cursor and mouse simulation commands that enable full control over your computer without needing a physical mouse. This comprehensive guide covers all laptop keystrokes for cursor management and mouse functions in JAWS.
For standard reading commands, see our Complete Guide to Standard JAWS Reading and Navigation Commands.
For Laptop reading commands, see our Mastering JAWS Laptop Keyboard Commands for Efficient Reading and Navigation.
Essential Cursor Commands
PC Cursor (CAPS LOCK+SEMICOLON)
The PC Cursor allows you to navigate applications exactly as a sighted user would with a mouse. Press this combination twice quickly if the Touch Cursor is currently active to switch to PC Cursor mode.
JAWS Cursor (CAPS LOCK+P)
The JAWS Cursor provides access to information that may not be available through standard keyboard navigation. Use this command to activate the JAWS Cursor for reading complex content.
Invisible Cursor (CAPS LOCK+P twice quickly)
When you need to read text without moving the visible cursor, the Invisible Cursor lets you explore content discreetly while maintaining your position in the document.
Touch Cursor (SHIFT+CAPS LOCK+SEMICOLON)
For touchscreen devices, the Touch Cursor simulates finger touches on the screen, allowing you to interact with touch-optimized interfaces.
Cursor Routing Commands
Route Touch Cursor to Focus Location (CAPS LOCK+APOSTROPHE)
This command moves the Touch Cursor to whatever element currently has keyboard focus, helping you quickly locate important interface elements.
Route PC Cursor to JAWS Cursor (CAPS LOCK+APOSTROPHE)
Need to click where your JAWS Cursor is positioned? This command moves the PC Cursor to match your JAWS Cursor location.
Route JAWS Cursor to PC Cursor (CAPS LOCK+LEFT BRACKET)
When you need to read content where your mouse pointer is located, this command moves the JAWS Cursor to the PC Cursor’s position.
Restrict JAWS Cursor (CAPS LOCK+R)
This command limits the JAWS Cursor or Virtual PC Cursor to specific areas of content, useful when working with complex layouts.
Mouse Simulation Commands
Left Mouse Button (CAPS LOCK+8)
Simulates a standard left mouse click. Press twice quickly for a double-click action.
Right Mouse Button (CAPS LOCK+9)
Brings up context menus just like right-clicking with a physical mouse. Double-tap for a right double-click.
Left Mouse Button Lock (CTRL+WINDOWS Key+8)
Locks the left mouse button down for dragging operations. Press again to release.
Right Mouse Button Lock (CTRL+WINDOWS Key+9)
Locks the right mouse button down for extended right-click operations. Press again to release.
Drag and Drop (CAPS LOCK+SHIFT+8)
Complete solution for drag-and-drop operations:
- Position cursor on item to move
- Press command to begin drag
- Navigate to destination
- Press command again to drop
Advanced Mouse Movement
When the JAWS Cursor is active, use these commands for precise control:
- Mouse Down (ALT+SHIFT+DOWN ARROW)
- Mouse Left (ALT+SHIFT+LEFT ARROW)
- Mouse Right (ALT+SHIFT+RIGHT ARROW)
- Mouse Up (ALT+SHIFT+UP ARROW)
Additional Tips
- Use Say Active Cursor (ALT+DELETE) to hear which cursor mode is currently active
- Remember that both source and destination must be visible on screen for drag-and-drop operations to work
- Practice these commands in a safe environment before using them with important documents
- Combine cursor commands with standard JAWS reading commands for maximum efficiency
Conclusion
Mastering these JAWS cursor and mouse simulation commands will significantly enhance your productivity and ability to navigate all types of applications. With practice, you’ll be able to move through content and interact with interface elements as efficiently as sighted mouse users.