  Drying of colloidal dispersion and their consolidation into a particulate
deposit is a common phenomenon. This process involves various physical
processes such as diffusion of liquid molecules into the ambient atmosphere and
advection of dispersed particles via evaporation driven flow. The colloidal
particles forming a dried deposit exhibits distinct patterns and frequently
possess structural defects such as desiccation cracks. This chapter gives an
introductory review of the drying of colloidal dispersion and various
associated phenomena. In principle, the drying of colloid dispersion, the
process of their consolidation, and fluid-flow dynamics are all studied in
numerous drying configurations. Here we explain drying induced phenomena
concerning sessile drop drying. We begin with an introduction to colloids,
provide background on the physics of drying, and then explain the formation of
pattern and the desiccation cracks. The role of evaporation driven flows and
their influence on particle accumulation, the impact of various physical
parameters on pattern formation and cracks are all briefly illustrated.
