A virtual touch pad operation method includes: determining whether or not a hovering input or a touch input to a touch screen meets a predetermined condition; entering a virtual touch pad mode when the hovering input or the touch input meets the predetermined condition; and operating a virtual touch pad. A terminal includes: a touch screen; and a controller which controls a hovering input or a touch input to the touch screen and displays a virtual touch pad on a portion of the touch screen by the hovering input, or the terminal includes: a touch screen, and a controller which distinguishes a touch input to a virtual touch pad in accordance with a pressure magnitude or area of the touch and controls the operation of the virtual touch pad. The virtual touch pad is formed on a portion of the touch screen by the touch input satisfying a predetermined condition.