Abstract: A computer generated graphical position readout device for manually operated milling machines, drill presses, boring machines, lathes, and the like. The readout apparatus includes a means to convert machining requirements into a graphical form, called a pattern, and to display the current and past positions of a milling machine's cutting tool with respect to this pattern. The readout device includes a means to display graphical information, a computer with a keyboard for operator provided data input and control of the operational program, and a position monitoring system to provide relative position information of the machine's cutting tool to a workpiece in multiple axes. The readout device further provides cross-hair type target displays to augment the graphical display for positioning the cutting tool center to a point, or to follow a curved or diagonal line.