This review provides an overview of analytical methods used for water and wastewater analysis, focusing on the detection of various contaminants, including organic and inorganic compounds, particulates, microorganisms, and disinfection by-products. The paper emphasizes the importance of advanced analytical techniques for effective monitoring and assessment of water quality. It discusses the development and application of various analytical tools, such as chromatography, which is widely used for the separation and quantification of organic compounds. The review also covers different sample preparation techniques, including liquid-liquid extraction and solid-phase extraction, and highlights the advantages and limitations of each. Additionally, the paper explores emerging analytical methods, such as dispersive solid-phase extraction, stir bar sorptive extraction, and solid-phase microextraction, which offer improved efficiency and sensitivity. For inorganic compounds, techniques like atomic absorption spectrometry, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and ion chromatography are discussed. The review also addresses the challenges associated with detecting microorganisms and disinfection by-products, emphasizing the need for sensitive and reliable methods. Overall, the paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the analytical methods used in water and wastewater analysis, highlighting their importance in ensuring water safety and environmental protection.This review provides an overview of analytical methods used for water and wastewater analysis, focusing on the detection of various contaminants, including organic and inorganic compounds, particulates, microorganisms, and disinfection by-products. The paper emphasizes the importance of advanced analytical techniques for effective monitoring and assessment of water quality. It discusses the development and application of various analytical tools, such as chromatography, which is widely used for the separation and quantification of organic compounds. The review also covers different sample preparation techniques, including liquid-liquid extraction and solid-phase extraction, and highlights the advantages and limitations of each. Additionally, the paper explores emerging analytical methods, such as dispersive solid-phase extraction, stir bar sorptive extraction, and solid-phase microextraction, which offer improved efficiency and sensitivity. For inorganic compounds, techniques like atomic absorption spectrometry, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and ion chromatography are discussed. The review also addresses the challenges associated with detecting microorganisms and disinfection by-products, emphasizing the need for sensitive and reliable methods. Overall, the paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the analytical methods used in water and wastewater analysis, highlighting their importance in ensuring water safety and environmental protection.