Abstract: The neural origin of ERPs is still an open question. The evoked model considers ERP as a deterministic evoked activity embedded in background EEG while the phase reset model considers ERP as a partial phase resetting of the ongoing oscillations of EEG. The present review 1) summarized the experimental evidences that supported the two models; 2) discussed controversial arguments raised by related studies; 3) suggested the future research direction in ERP origin, such as developing signal recording and data processing techniques. It is believed that the review helps to deepen our understanding of the mechanisms underlying the generation of ERPs.

Key words: event-related potential, evoked model, phase reset model, neural mechanism