linux on laptop external monitor only partially works

Hi new here new to linux
So i just tried the try option from bootable usb
Linux mint mate on dell vostro laptop
Everything works almost
My problem is when i boot up the laptop monitor is on the icons are there but the mouse or touchpad do not work
The external monitor actually a small
lloyds tv with vga hdmi hookups im using the vga hookup
Is on as well but no icons and the mouse works on external monitor
All i can do is right click and change background themes
So i have to get the icons on the external monitor and taskbar as well
why would they be on the laptop monitor but not the external monitor
I hope i explained that right
Cause i would really really like to escape windows 10 once and for all
When i run windows 10 with this setup the laptop monitor comes on first windows logo then goes black
And then external monitor comes on i need linux to do that as well
Any help on this would be greatly appreciated
Have wanted linux for a long time oh so close to doing the complete install over windows just want to get it to work in try mode first
Please help me brake free from windows 10 tyranny