Transcranial magnetic stimulation studies of cognition: an emerging field

In this short review, we consider the application of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to the study of cognitive function. Following an introduc tion to the technique, we consider its possible mechanisms of action. We th en review the studies that have applied TMS to the investigation of cogniti on. In the majority of these investigations, TMS has been applied to disrup t function and demonstrate that a particular cortical area is essential for performance of the task under study. Finally, we highlight pertinent desig n and procedural issues and consider other types of questions that can be a ddressed by future TMS studies of cognitive function.