The various steps in the application of liquid crystals to displays are reviewed. First, the general classifications of liquid crystals and some common compounds are presented. Then, electrode materials and techniques for cell construction are discussed. Next, the diverse surface orientation methods are discussed. The electro-optic effects are classified by origin, that is, whether they result solely from dielectric forces or from the combination of dielectric and conduction stimuli. Different techniques for addressing liquid crystal displays are given. Finally, present and future applications are mentioned.