What is the purpose of a tool tip in a graphical user interface?

• A. To start a process automatically
• B. To save the current document
• C. To close the application
• D. To display a brief description of a control's purpose when the mouse hovers over it

Answer: (D)

Tooltips provide quick, passive guidance about a UI element. When you move the mouse cursor over a control, a small text box appears explaining what that control does, like a brief label that helps you understand an icon or button without guessing. This makes the interface easier to learn and use, especially for unfamiliar icons or compact toolbars, and it can also help users who rely on keyboards or screen readers by offering context about controls. The tooltip itself doesn’t trigger any action; the actual function happens when you click or activate the control. For example, hovering a button with a printer icon might show “Print this document,” which clarifies its purpose without executing a print automatically.