Google Docs has become an indispensable tool for collaborative work, allowing users to seamlessly create, edit, and share documents online.
However, like any technology, it's not immune to occasional glitches and quirks. One common issue that users encounter is the mysterious white cursor in Google Docs.
If you're also seeking a quick solution to the problem - Why is my cursor white in Google Docs, you've come to the right place.
In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind the white cursor phenomenon and provide step-by-step solutions to resolve the issue.
Let's get started.
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How to Fix Cursor Turns White in Google Docs?
When the mouse cursor turns white inside Google Docs or Word it would very difficult for users to type or edit any text inside a document.
A Google Docs or a Microsoft Word document normally has a white background which makes it impossible to locate a white cursor.
You would face difficulty in scrolling, selecting, or editing a text. You would simply have no idea where the cursor is.
Here is the step-by-step process to fix this issue.
Step 1: Open Mouse Settings in Windows
To open Mouse Settings, press Windows + I button on your keyword and enter "mouse settings" in the search bar.
Now, click on the Mouse settings option as shown in the screenshot below.
After selecting Mouse settings option, all important settings for the mouse will appear on the screen.
Now, select Additional mouse settings under Related settings as shown below.
A Mouse Properties popup window with different properties for your mouse will appear on the screen.
Now, click on Pointers as shown below.
Under Customise option, you can see that the Normal Select option is selected by default. By keeping it selected, click on Browse as shown below.
Now, you will see a list of cursors types. Scroll through it to find the beam_r cursor type from the list.
Select the beam_r cursor type and click on Open as shown below.
Now, click on the Apply and Ok button to close the window.
Step 2: Open Google Docs to Check
Now, open Google Docs in your browser and open any document.
Enter some text in your document, and now, if you try to select your text, you would notice that the cursor is no longer turning white.
This is how, you can fix the issue of cursor turning white in Google Docs.
Please note that if you again want to go back to the default cursor, you need to select “Use Default” from the “Mouse Properties” pop-up window.
Also Read: How to Make Bubble Letters in Google Docs
Alternate Method
If the above method doesn't work, then you can try this another method to fix the white cursor issue.
Again go to your mouse settings, then click on Additional mouse settings under Related Settings to open the Mouse Properties popup window.
Click on Pointers. Under Customise option, you can see that the Normal Select option is selected by default.
This time we will select another option. Scroll through the list and select Text Select option, and click on the Browse button.
Now, from the list of cursors types, find the beam_r cursor type from the list.
Select the beam_r cursor type and click on Open as shown below.
Now, click on the Apply and Ok button to close the window.
This second method is also useful in fixing the white cursor issue in Google Docs or Microsoft Word.
Why is My Cursor White in Google Docs?
Please note that there may be multiple reasons that may cause the mouse cursor to white in Google Docs.
Let's have a look at some of the possible causes:
1. Browser Compatibility Issues: One of the primary reasons for a white cursor in Google Docs could be browser compatibility issues. Google Docs is optimized for certain browsers, and using an outdated or incompatible browser may lead to unexpected behavior, including a white cursor.
Solution: Ensure that you are using a supported and updated browser such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Microsoft Edge for the optimal Google Docs experience. Check for browser updates regularly to stay ahead of compatibility issues.
2. Extensions or Add-ons Interference: Browser extensions or add-ons can sometimes interfere with the functionality of Google Docs, causing issues like a white cursor. Extensions designed to enhance browsing may unintentionally conflict with the features of Google Docs.
Solution: Temporarily disable browser extensions or add-ons and reload Google Docs to see if the white cursor issue persists. If the problem is resolved, re-enable extensions one by one to identify the culprit, and consider using an alternative extension if necessary.
3. Cache and Cookies Accumulation: Over time, cached data and cookies in your browser can accumulate and lead to unexpected behavior in web applications, including Google Docs. This may manifest as a white cursor issue.
Solution: Clear your browser's cache and cookies regularly to ensure smooth functioning of Google Docs. Instructions for clearing cache and cookies vary by browser, so refer to your browser's documentation for specific steps.
4. GPU Acceleration: Hardware acceleration features, particularly GPU acceleration, can sometimes clash with the rendering of Google Docs, resulting in anomalies like a white cursor.
Solution: Disable hardware acceleration in your browser settings. In Google Chrome, for instance, you can find this option under "Settings" > "Advanced" > "System." Turn off "Use hardware acceleration when available" and check if the issue persists.
Wrapping Up
I hope you found this small tutorial on the issue - Why is my cursor white in Google Docs, and how to fix it, helpful.
By following the above tutorial and tips, you can make sure that your cursor in Google documents goes back to normal.
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For useful tips and tutorials, you can check out the below mentioned blog articles.
