<p>A pick queue and pick detection method that allows non-hierarchical graphic data models and applications to be used with pipelined processing systems. Pretransform formatting logic is placed prior to pipeline processors to store necessary picking information in a pick queue. A pick tag addressing the pick queue is passed with each graphics order through the pipeline and stored in the pick detect logic. The pick detect logic interrupts the graphics control processor that then accesses the tag register associated with the graphics order and the coordinate counter to address the stored pick information of the order triggering the pick. The graphics processor uses the tag address and coordinate counter to indirectly address the pick queue and retrieve the information that needs to be passed back to the application program. The structure eliminates the requirement to pass significant amounts of data through the pipeline processors.</p>
