a computer system , article of manufacture , and method direct a computer system , having at least a processor , memory , and touchscreen , to create a virtual pointing device . the method includes the steps of detecting a hand placed on the touchscreen , designating at least one area of the touchscreen under at least a portion of the hand as the virtual pointing device , in response to movement of the portion of the hand across the touchscreen , moving the activated area in substantial accordance with the movement of the portion of the hand , positioning a pointer on the touchscreen such that movement of the area on the touchscreen in a first direction causes the pointer to move in the first direction , and in response to activating the area by at least a second portion of the hand , executing at least one command on an object or text positioned substantially under the pointer .