"Mod 12" refers to a mathematical operation known as "modulus" or "modulo," which finds the remainder when one number is divided by another. In this case, "mod 12" means you divide a number by 12 and take the remainder. For example, 14 mod 12 equals 2, because when you divide 14 by 12, the remainder is 2. This concept is often used in various fields, including computer science and cryptography, to manage cycles or repetitive patterns. For instance, in a clock system, the hours reset after reaching 12, making it a practical application of mod 12 in everyday life.