Abstract: A cursor positioning system for a data processing system having a user interface shell defining positions for user entry of commands and data, a hot spot associated with a position in the user interface shell and a hot spot positioning device is disclosed. The cursor positioning provides for initially imaging a cursor in association with the hot spot and after computer prompted entry into a graphical operation mode by the user, detaching the displayed cursor from the hot spot. The hot spot position thereafter resets to a base position after every movement of the hot spot positioning device. The displayed cursor is moved to a series of successive locations in response to user manipulation of the hot spot positioning device, starting from the then current locations of the cursor with each move.