Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
An EEG is a test that detects electrical activity in your brain using small, metal discs (electrodes) attached to your scalp.
Related terms
Brainwaves: These are patterns of neuron electrical activity within the brain, which EEGs measure. They're like different musical notes produced by our concert instruments.
Electrode: This is a conductor through which electricity enters or leaves an object, substance, or region. In our analogy, they're similar to microphones picking up each instrument’s sound at a concert.
Neurofeedback: This is a type of biofeedback that uses real-time displays of brain activity—most commonly EEG—to teach self-regulation of brain function. It's like adjusting those dials on our concert soundboard to achieve perfect harmony.