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Electrical Theory Explained – Fundamentals, Applications & Learning Resources

Updated 5/28/2025

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Table of Contents


  • What Is Electrical Theory?
  • Understanding the Basics of Electrical Theory

Electricity is all around us—powering homes, lighting streets and keeping entire industries running.

But how does it actually work?

If you’ve ever asked that question, you’re already starting to think like someone who might enjoy working in the electrical field. Understanding electrical theory is the first step toward building real-world skills that can lead toward a hands-on, reliable career.

Let’s break it down. Whether your goal is to wire homes, troubleshoot control systems or keep industrial equipment running, a strong grasp of basic electrical theory can help you get there.

What Is Electrical Theory?

At its core, electrical theory explains how electricity behaves and moves through circuits. It covers key ideas like voltage, current, resistance and power—things you need to know before handling wires or working on any electrical system.

 If you’ve found yourself wondering, “What is electrical theory?” Here’s your answer: it’s the set of rules and relationships that help you understand and apply electricity safely and effectively. It’s the kind of knowledge you would use whether you’re installing lights, fixing motors or working with automated systems.

Understanding the Basics of Electrical Theory

1. The relationship between voltage, current and resistance

These three elements form the foundation of basic electrical theory.

Voltage is the force that pushes electricity. Current is the flow. Resistance slows it down.

Understanding how they work together is a major part of electrical safety and problem-solving.

2. Electric circuit theory – how electricity flows

Electric circuit theory shows how electricity travels through connected components like switches, outlets and motors. When something breaks or stops working, this theory helps you find out why—and how to fix it.

3. AC vs. DC electric theory

By learning AC and DC electric theory, you could learn that alternating current (AC) changes direction while direct current (DC) flows one way. Both types of current power different tools and technologies, and knowing the difference helps you choose the right one for the job.

4. Electric motor theory – how motors work

Motors convert electricity into movement. Electric motor theory explains how they do it. This knowledge is key if you’re working with things like HVAC units, robotics or automated equipment that rely on motor-driven systems.

Where To Learn Electrical Theory – Classes & Training Options

You don’t have to figure this out on your own. Learning electrical theory through a structured program can help you gain confidence and skill—especially if you’re just starting out.

At Universal Technical Institute (UTI), students can get electrical training, where they can take electrical theory classes as part of a well-rounded curriculum. You can study real-world systems like AC/DC circuits, motors and programmable logic controllers (PLCs). Electrical training students train in labs with tools and technology used on actual job sites.

After graduation, you can pursue entry-level roles like electrician helper, security systems technician, automation technician and more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is basic electrical theory important?

Because it helps you understand how electricity works before you start working with it. It’s the first step toward safety, accuracy and long-term success in the field.

Who uses electrical theory?

Anyone working with wiring, circuits or electronic systems—electricians, maintenance techs, controls specialists and more.

What are the main types of electrical theories?

The most common are AC and DC electric theory, electric circuit theory and electric motor theory. Together, they explain how electrical systems power everything from homes to factories.

What is the difference between electric circuit theory and electric motor theory?

Electric circuit theory focuses on how electricity flows. Electric motor theory explains how that energy is turned into mechanical motion.

Learn Electrical Theory for a Hands-On Career!

Electrical theory is more than a concept—it’s a skill that can open doors. Our electrical training suite is designed to help you build technical knowledge and confidence for the field through hands-on lab work and industry-relevant instruction.130

If you’re ready to take the first step toward a career that runs on knowledge and skill, an Admissions Representative is here to help. Call 1-800-834-7308 or click the button below to get started.

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*UTI now offers all of its automotive, diesel, motorcycle and marine technician training in a blended learning format consisting of online lecture courses along with in-person, hands-on lab training.

1 ) UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.
2 ) For program outcome information and other disclosures, visit www.uti.edu/disclosures.
130 ) UTI’s electrical programs do not prepare graduates for employment as electricians, and graduates will not be eligible for certification as an electrician without additional training and meeting state licensing requirements. These programs prepare graduates for entry-level careers using the provided training. Possible career paths, by program, may include: Electrical, Electronics, & Industrial Technology – electrician’s assistant, security + access control systems technician; Electrical, Robotics + Automation Technology – control systems technician, robotics & automation technician; Electrical, Wind Turbine Technology – field service technician, wind turbine technician; Electrical, Industrial Maintenance Technology – maintenance technician, field service technician. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.

Universal Technical Institute of Illinois, Inc. is approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.