The 12-lead ECG provides 12 pictures of the heart that can be interpreted in under 60 seconds. There are 3 limb leads, 3 augmented limb leads, and 6 precordial leads that each represent a different view of the heart. Understanding the vector, or direction of electrical flow, of each lead helps identify abnormalities in cardiac depolarization. The mean QRS axis can be determined from leads I, II, and III and indicates the quadrant of cardiac electrical activity. Interpreting 12-lead ECGs involves recognizing common patterns that indicate conditions like myocardial infarction.