Fine motor control is defined as control of fine (small, precise) movements. The opposite of this type of control would be gross (large, general) movements. Fine motor control is the integration of muscular, skeletal, and neurological functions used to produce small, precise, coordinated movements (such as precisely pointing to a small item with one finger instead of waving an arm toward the general area).

The development of fine motor control is a process of refining gross motor control, and it is a skill that results from maturation of the neurological system. It develops after gross motor control.

The control of fine motor skills is a developmental process for children and is used as a developmental milestone to assess the developmental age of a child. Fine motor skills are developed through time, experience, and knowledge. Fine motor control requires normal cognition so that planning and execution of a task can be accomplished. It also requires muscle strength, co-ordination and normal sensation.