Hexafluoroisopropanol as a highly versatile solvent

1,1,1,3,3,3-Hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP) has recently become a very popular solvent or additive with applications across the spectrum of chemistry. Analysis shows that it possesses a wide range of interesting and unique properties. In this Perspective, we detail the main uses of HFIP in the natural sciences and disclose the underlying principles that give it such wide appeal. Accordingly, we show the broad usage and beneficial effects in many areas of chemistry. Reviewing the applications of a solvent would ordinarily be an unusual thing to do, but the unique properties of hexafluoroisopropanol and its applications across a huge swathe of chemistry make that both a viable and interesting undertaking.