GIMP Version: 2.8.14
Operating System: Linux
GIMP Experience: Intermediate Level

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On the left side pane its been the same for as long as I have been using Gimp but for some reason unknown to me, its changed.
for example when I used the Text, under it would be a choice to pick Dynamic, thats not there anymore what I get is a big long drop down.that says core pointer. If I use Gradient I no longer get gradients on the drop down Its the same thing a long list of worthless features I dont care about. I might have accidentally Hit a key on my key board or something. I wish I could get a screen shot but I cant. I went to preferences and tried to set it to default but that didnt do anything. I got so frustrated that I uninstalled Gimp and when I started the fresh install it was the same. So I came on here to see if anyone would know how to restore it to the original setting. I hope this made sense

Should be a place in gimp preferences to go back to default settings.

Maybe this is what you are looking for. At the bottom right corner of the Toolbox is a reset tool button (highlighted by my green arrow), which when 'shift clicked' resets all Tools to default values.

oldmangrumpy's should work but as an explanation of those icons

Sometime you have inadvertently clicked on the core pointer icon. By default Gimp remembers last settings



You have (1) and you want (2) Click on the left side icon for tool options. Gimp will (should) remember. You can make the GUI easier for yourself and close any unwanted icons (3) See oldmangrumpy's screenshot with only tool option



The basics are in Edit -> Preferences -> Tool Options. You can untick Save... on Exit (4) if you want and if nothing works then use Reset...to Default Values (5) ( and the same in the Window Management section )

I have often thought that Gimp should have a "Simple Mode" with a reduced GUI