Would an elephant make a good pet? I think that they might, Maybe you can tie it to a tree in the backyard

I have heard that some animals make great pets. There are rabbits and parrots that are pretty cool. There are also more unusual animals like a donkey and a deer that are supposedly also good as a pet. Now, I know that an elephant can get to be a little large, but I understand that they are smart, kind, and can understand English. Heck, I even saw on the TV that some can paint, like music and can work an iPhone. Would they make a great pet?

Elephants make wonderful pets if you can get one socialized with humans as a baby.
No, you couldn't tie it to a tree in the back yard, it would have to free roam and means 20+ acres of suitable land for it including a large bath/mud pond.
Elephants are not cheap, their care is not cheap, and you would have to have a vet on call with pachyderm experience.
Some few people do keep them, and they are not permitted everywhere.
One real downside is they are herd animals and live in groups, like rabbits and guinea pigs, without the company of their own kind, they can become depressed and develop emotional problems, then health problems.
You gonna keep 2? They are a bit larger than a horse and eat substantially more than a horse. Yes, they are very smart and could learn some amazing tricks, and can have a close bond with their keeper.
Personally, I think you should get a rat and forget about elephants until you are prepared to keep them.

I think rather then get such a large animal, just go to local shelter and get a kitten.
Cost less and will do less damage to your home.

They can eat up to 660 pounds of food per day.

They'll strip your yard bare within the first day and would still be looking for food.

Can you afford to purchase 660 pounds of hay (not straw) and fruit per day? Every day? For the next 48-70 years (depending on breed)?

An elephant is a great pet if 1) You have the money to feed and care for it (its very very expensive to maintain)

2) You have enough space in your backyard to exercise your elephant.

3) It is legal in your country to keep an elephant at your home.

4) you have a vet who knows how to treat elephants nearby.

Overall its best for you to avoid an elephant and keep a cat dog rabbit or parrot instead.

Your gay

I have heard the minature elephant is a perfect pet. Like the one in the link. Hope you find a great Ele pet.

https://tse4.mm.bing.net/th?id=OIP.7y6sqR7a9EidhJ3BYwlsogEsDH&pid=15.1&P=0&w=229&h=153
You could probably keep it in a shoebox.

Or the mini rhino
https://tse2.mm.bing.net/th?id=OIP.Y_wFaRFTqxxyiK_kc2LSQwEsEZ&pid=15.1&P=0&w=183&h=172
You could probably tie that to a tree, and it won't bark!