Why is the "cursor:pointer" effect in CSS not working?

Debugging apathy from your elements

If an element stubbornly resists cursor:pointer, follow these debugging steps:

1. Ensure the CSS file is linked properly to your HTML document. Broken or inaccurate file paths can be the culprit.
2. Inspect any overriding elements with a higher z-index. They might be masquerading as your element and absorbing its pointer events.
3. Spot pointer-events: none; in your styles which could be disabling the cursor effect on parent elements. Restore it by setting pointer-events: auto; on your target element.

Remember the B in HTML CSS stands for Browsers

If your cursor: pointer; style acts inconsistently across different browsers, it's about time you perform a cross-browser compatibility test. For browsers that play hard-to-get and do not support certain semantics, use Modernizr for fallbacks.

Life isn't just z-index and pointer-events

Play with z-index or positioning only if it directly aids your issue. Going trigger happy on these could start a domino effect of problems that wouldn't even flinch to cursor:pointer.

Everyone gets their 15 minutes of Specificity

In CSS, the specificity hierarchy determines which style rules take precedence. For instances when your style statement is overridden by another of a higher specificity, !important can help. Though, be gentle with !important. It can save the day, but overuse can make it the actual problem.

/* Not unless absolutely necessary and as a last resort  */
.specific-path .to .hoverable-element {
  cursor: pointer !important;
}
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Risky business with Software

Cursor problems aren’t always from your code. They could be from your operating system or development environment. It wouldn't hurt to close and reopen your software or even consider an OS update.

Compatibility is key

Testing your code across various devices may save you from those unexpected device-specific issues. Using tools like BrowserStack or Can I use... puts you in a favorable position.

User experience

In the end, it’s all about your user. Thoughtfully applying cursor:pointer on interactive elements elevates user experience, making navigation intuitive and interactions clear.