List of graphical user interface elements

Some conventions are used to build the structure of the static elements on which the user can interact, and define the appearance of the interface.

It is easy for a user to manipulate a window: it can be shown and hidden by clicking on an icon or application, and it can be moved to any area by dragging it (that is, by clicking in a certain area of the window – usually the title bar along the top – and keeping the pointing device's button pressed, then moving the pointing device).

[2] An icon is a small picture that represents objects such as a file, program, web page, or command.

Common uses for widgets involve the display of collections of related items (such as with various list and canvas controls), initiation of actions and processes within the interface (buttons and menus), navigation within the space of the information system (links, tabs and scrollbars), and representing and manipulating data values (such as labels, check boxes, radio buttons, sliders, and spinners.)

A tab is typically a rectangular small box which usually contains a text label or graphical icon associated with a view pane.

It represents the object that will be used as the default subject of user-initiated commands such as writing text, starting a selection or a copy-paste operation through the keyboard.

The user typically adds items to the list manually, although the computer may create a selection automatically.

Usually the pointer shape changes when placed on the handle, showing an icon that represents the supported drag operation.