# Using the Direct Cursor

/text/swriter/guide/text_direct_cursor.xhp
text; cursor
entering text with direct cursor
direct cursor; settings
writing with direct cursor
cursor;direct cursor
settings;direct cursor
Using the Direct Cursor
The direct cursor allows you to enter text anywhere on a page.
To set the behavior of the direct cursor, choose %PRODUCTNAME - Preferences Tools - Options - %PRODUCTNAME Writer - Formatting Aids.
- On the Tools bar, click the Direct Cursor icon Icon.
- Click in a free space in the text document. The mouse pointer changes to reflect the alignment that will be applied to the text that you type:
  Icon
  Align left
  Icon
  Centered
  Icon
  Align right
- Type your text. %PRODUCTNAME automatically inserts the required number of blank lines, and, if the options are enabled, tabs and spaces.