How do I deselect tools and get pointer back in Microsoft Paint verson 11

Microsoft Paint version 11 does not have a separate “pointer” tool like older graphics or Office apps. The mouse cursor automatically acts as a selection/pointer tool when not actively using a drawing action.

To effectively “deselect” a tool and just select or move things:

1. Finish the current stroke or shape (release the mouse button or lift your pen).
2. Click on a blank area of the canvas to clear any active selection.
3. The cursor will behave as a normal pointer for selecting and moving existing content.

If a specific tool (like brush, pencil, or eraser) is still active, simply avoid dragging on the canvas; clicking on existing content will select it, and clicking on empty space will do nothing—functionally the same as a pointer mode.

References:

• How to: Use a Drawing Tool
• Draw and write with ink in Office
• Shape selection tools