Electrocardiography (ECG or EKG) is a medical test that records the electrical activity of the heart over a period of time. It uses small electrodes placed on the skin to detect electrical signals produced by heartbeats. The resulting graph, called an electrocardiogram, helps doctors assess heart health, identify irregularities, and diagnose conditions such as arrhythmias or heart attacks. The procedure is non-invasive, quick, and painless, typically taking only a few minutes. An ECG can be performed in various settings, including hospitals and outpatient clinics, and is often used as a routine check-up or during emergency evaluations to monitor heart function.