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 one of the plurality of objects, wherein the global input gesture is 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, wherein, the global input gesture is distinguished from other inputs into the graphical user interface by detecting a separate input entered into the graphical user interface before the global input gesture, which separate input requires that the next input that is input into the graphical user interface is processed as a global input gesture, provided the next input is carried out within a time interval after the separate input.