What are the main key differences between zoning out and having a focal seizure?

Seizure: A focal seizure effects only one are of the brain and typically is not associated with "zoning out". The symptoms of a focal seizure may be the following: muscle contraction, odd sensations, abnormal head or eye movements, automatism or repetitive movements such as lip smacking or vision changes. An absence seizure is more likely associated with staring off into space or "zoning out".