Additive Manufacturing (AM) is an emerging technology, used to fabricate components in layer by layer fashions. It has several key merits such as part customization, ability to produce complicated shapes etc. that are not possible by traditional machining methods (Lathes, Shapers, Planner, Slotter, Milling etc.). The timeline of the scientific and technological developments survey reported that owing to the attractive properties and growing demand it will be used to fabricate full body origin in 2032. This paper aims to provide an overview of additive manufacturing methods, materials, merits and demerits, cost comparision, future scope, challenges and distinct industrial applications, so that this study helps upcoming researchers working in the field of additive manufacturing.