What each ECG wave represents
A standard electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) records the heart's electrical activity as a repeating pattern of waves labeled P, QRS, and T. The P wave represents atrial depolarization, the electrical activation that triggers the atria to contract. The QRS complex represents ventricular depolarization, which activates the much larger ventricular muscle and is the tallest deflection on the trace. The T wave represents ventricular repolarization, the electrical recovery of the ventricles.
Atrial repolarization also occurs but is normally hidden within the larger QRS complex, which is why a distinct wave for it is not usually seen.
Reading the intervals between waves
The spacing between waves carries clinical meaning. The PR interval reflects conduction time from the atria through the atrioventricular node to the ventricles. The QRS duration reflects how quickly the ventricles depolarize, and a widened QRS can indicate a conduction problem. The QT interval spans ventricular depolarization and repolarization together.
Clinicians interpret wave shapes, durations, and intervals across multiple leads to assess rhythm and conduction. ECG interpretation is a medical task, and abnormal findings require evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional.