Electric motors are an indispensable power source in our daily lives and industrial activities. They are utilized across a wide range of fields, from home appliances to industrial machinery, medical equipment, and precision instruments. However, few people may have a systematic understanding of how electric motors work or the different types available.

In this article, we provide an easy-to-understand explanation for engineers covering the basic mechanisms, operating principles, historical development, and major types of electric motors. For those considering motor selection in product development, this content serves as a first step toward organizing foundational knowledge and selecting the optimal product.