1. A method for controlling a graphical user interface, the method comprising: defining a menu in which a function is associated with each of a plurality of objects in the menu associating a global input gesture, in each case, with at least some of the objects, wherein the global input gesture can be carried out on a touch-sensitive surface of an input apparatus; displaying various display contents on a display area, such that the global input gesture which is carried out on the touch-sensitive surface is detected; and carrying out a function associated with the object associated with the detected input gesture independently of the display content being shown on the display area at that time.