This article explains how to disable the touchpad on a laptop in Windows 10. Additional instructions cover adjusting touchpad sensitivity and resetting touchpad settings.
Some users prefer to use a mouse because it is generally more comfortable. Others with touchscreen PCs may prefer to tap and swipe on their laptop screens, just like they would on a tablet.
While working on a document, you may want to temporarily disable the touchpad to avoid accidentally tapping something or moving the mouse pointer while typing on the keyboard. The proximity of a touchpad to the keyboard makes it more vulnerable to these types of accidents.
Check to see if there is a physical key on your laptop that enables or disables your touchpad functionality. The key may have an icon that resembles a touchpad. You will likely have to hold down the Fn key while pressing it.