The document discusses the light pen, a pointing device shaped like a pen that contains light sensors and connects to a visual display unit. The tip of the light pen detects light from the screen to identify its location. It works by sensing changes in brightness when the electron gun refreshes spots on the screen. The light pen allows users to touch the screen to activate commands and selections with great position accuracy, similar to a touchscreen. While it provides accuracy and precision for selections and drawing directly on the screen, disadvantages include the inability to erase and fatigue from extended use.