When using Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS), where you choose to place the electrodes on your head is very important. The brain is a complex unique organism with many parts that perform various different roles. The various arrangements of the Anode (positive, red) electrode, and Cathode (negative, black) electrode on the head/body are referred to as “tDCS montages”.

Through the publications of nearly 5,000 tDCS research studies to date, scientists have uncovered numerous electrode placements montages. Collectively, the Total tDCS team has logged hundreds of hours reading through thousands of scientific studies and user reports to find the tDCS montages that can provide the best results with the strongest scientific backing.

The list of tDCS montages you will find below is currently the largest database of tDCS electrode placements collected on the internet (we’ve checked). Each montage will include a graphical representation of where to place the electrodes, a description of the results to expect, and links to specific research studies supporting our findings. Have fun!

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List of tDCS Electrode Montages

Electrode Placement Accuracy

Many people wonder how to be sure they’re placing the electrodes in the exact correct position. It has been reported by users as well as documented in scientific research that the exact placement (to put it in laymen terms) is really not that big of a deal… Yes, you should attempt to replicate the electrode placement you’re using as best you can. But no, don’t lose sleep over every centimeter.

If you are significantly worried, scientifically invested, or just an adventurous individual, there are guides available which will instruct you on how to measure your head to determine your exact anatomy. Armed with that knowledge you can (fairly) precisely pinpoint the exact 10/20 points on your head. Once the points are documented, you can follow the 10/20 electrode points found on each montage page to position the electrode as precisely as possible.