What is a primary characteristic of a graphical user interface (GUI)?

A primary characteristic of a graphical user interface (GUI) is that it provides visual elements for user navigation. This means that users interact with the system through graphical components such as icons, buttons, windows, and menus, which enhance usability and accessibility. The visual representation allows users to intuitively understand what actions they can take and where to find the tools they need without having to memorize complex commands.

By presenting information visually, a GUI simplifies the user experience, especially for individuals who may not be familiar with text-based commands or programming. This approach makes technology more approachable for a broader audience, as users can click on icons or use touch gestures to carry out tasks instead of relying on keyboard input alone. Hence, the essence of a GUI is its emphasis on user-friendly navigation through visual means, which stands in contrast to other interface types that may require command-line expertise or limit interaction to text-based commands.