To provide a method for using icons that reduces a display area and the burden on a user.

An icon 10 that represents a target object comprises a handle 1a, a needle 1b, a pin body 1, and a shadow 2 of the pin body. The way in which the pin body 1 and the shadow 2 are displayed is varied to vary the display/control of the target object. For example, a cursor pointer is put on the handle 1a and a determination button is pressed to open it to display the corresponding target object on a screen. If the target object is displayed on the screen and is yet to be run, it is displayed in such a manner that the needle 1b is stuck in its middle. While the target object is being run, it is displayed in such a manner that the needle 1b is deeply stuck. If the target object and the icon are movable, they are displayed in such a manner that the needle 1b is floating. If the target object can be enlarged or contracted, it is displayed in such a manner that the handle 1a is rotating.

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