Abstract <p>The ability to plan and execute movements is a critical brain function. Understanding the neural mechanisms of motor control, especially motor cortical control, has been a central focus in neuroscience research. Here we review recent research on motor cortex through the lens of the experiment-analysis-model flywheel, a virtuous cycle that promotes the development of this field. We summarize experiments that gather large-scale neural data, computational methods that analyze this data to yield new insights, and computational models that explain these insights and motivate further experiments. Each component of the flywheel drives the others, forming a self-reinforcing cycle of discovery and innovation. Additionally, we discuss efforts that leverage findings from motor cortical control to develop high-performance brain-computer interfaces. In summary, the experiment-analysis-model flywheel not only promotes the development of the field of neuroscience, but also facilitates the translation of its discoveries into clinical applications, such as restoring motor functions in individuals with paralysis.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>