What is a Double Click?
A double click is a computer mouse action where the user quickly presses and releases the button (the left-one on two-button mice) twice in quick succession. This action typically opens a file or activates an item within a program. Other mouse actions, such as single-click, right-click, middle-click, double-right-click, and triple-click may also be used to perform different functions depending on the program being used.
What are some advantages of using a double click on a computer?
Double clicking can be an easy way to open files or programs without having to use your keyboard or scroll through menus. Additionally, some software offers additional features related to double clicking, such as highlighting words or URLs.
How do I do a double click?
To properly execute a double click, place your cursor over the desired file or icon you want to select and quickly press your left mouse button twice in succession. If done correctly, this will trigger the desired result in most situations.
Can I double click too fast?
In some situations, yes, depending on your computer's settings. If you have “double-click speed” turned up higher than usual (for example, 400 ms vs 250 ms), then you may need to be quicker with your clicks for them to register correctly with the device's operating system (OS). But this should only be necessary in rare cases where that setting has been adjusted above its default value of 250 ms.
Is double clicking available in all operating systems?
Most versions of Windows come with double clicking enabled by default for opening programs and documents from the desktop or File Explorer window. However, other OSes including Linux may require other methods instead, such as single click selections from menus.
Do I need a specific type of mouse to double click effectively?
No, most mice will allow you to trigger this feature easily. However, based on the model, there may be slight variations in precision or the force needed to initiate each click.
What other things can I do with a double click?
Aside from opening files and applications, double clicking can also be used to select words or other items in the interface. To select a word, simply double click it. To select multiple consecutive items, press and hold the left button and drag the mouse over the desired selections.
What are some common double-clicking mistakes?
One common mistake people make is not pressing down firmly enough when executing a double click – leading to incomplete actions or nothing happening at all. Additionally, if you have “double-click speed” set too high in your OS, you may need to be more precise with your clicking (or change the setting).
Are there any safety concerns when double clicking?
The biggest safety concern when double clicking has less to do with the act itself than with what item you double click. There's always a chance it links to malicious software. But other than failing to select or initiate your desired action, there are no typical “dangers” involved in the act of a double click.
Can I undo a double click?
While you can't undo the click, you can often undo the action the click initiated. Most operating systems allow you to undo or reverse recent user actions. Often, it's as simple as pressing Ctrl+Z or selecting Undo from the program menu. You might even be able to undo several successive actions, although some programs only allow you to undo the most recent one.
What are some tips for double clicking?
For optimal double clicking, make sure your mouse is working properly. When selecting text, it's usually better to single click and hold down the left mouse button while dragging your cursor across the text. This will ensure that everything is selected properly.
And always pay attention to where your cursor is—so you don't click something unintentionally.
What problems result from accidentally double clicking?
Generally, no significant problems result from mistaken double clicking, since you can usually undo whatever action was initiated. The wrong file may open, but nothing worse. But be careful when double clicking external hyperlinks and such, since they can sometimes lead to malicious software.
