This term is often used to mean the same thing as EEG-video monitoring. It does not necessarily include video, and there is no definition of how many hours make up “long term.” It is usually associated with video recording even though it is not in its name. Long-term monitoring: this term is confusing because it only refers to length of testing.EEG-video monitoring: this is usually assumed to be inpatient and prolonged (done over a number of days).The length of recording can vary and it may be done with or without video. Ambulatory EEG: recording the person's EEG in the outpatient setting or at home, usually for 1 to 3 days.Prolonged EEG: 1 to 2 hours may be done with or without video.

The most common are photic stimulation (fast, flashing lights or patterns), hyperventilation (very quick breathing), and sleep deprivation (staying up late the night before). Often this is done with standard “activation procedures” that increase the chance of capturing seizure-like discharges or even seizures.