The document provides an overview of x-ray diffraction (XRD), including its origins, basic principles, instrumentation, methods, and applications. XRD utilizes x-rays generated from x-ray tubes and involves measuring the scattering of x-rays after they interact with a crystal. The positions of scattered x-rays are recorded and analyzed to reveal information about the crystal such as its structure, chemical composition, and physical properties. Common techniques include powder diffraction, single crystal, and fiber diffraction. XRD finds applications in various fields including pharmaceuticals for characterization of drugs and excipients.