<p>Since the last 50&#xa0;years, PVA has been viewed as a versatile material. PVA is gaining attention due to its exceptional film forming properties, biodegradability, and chemical resistance. In the past few years, modified PVA and its composites have been explored because of their improved mechanical, optical and electrical properties. This review is a comprehensive study of PVA-based sensing materials, with a focus on recent advancements in both pristine and composite derivatives. This review is intended to explore their potential applications in emerging fields such as sensing and electrical conductivity. The development of PVA-based sensors is discussed through the review of traditional methods for functionalization of PVA, such as esterification, carbonation, and etherification. Other approaches for the development of PVA-based sensors have also been discussed, such as the preparation of composites, nanocomposites, and blends of PVA. The analysis of polymer samples can be done using a variety of characterization techniques. These include Fourier transformed infra-red spectroscopy (FT-IR), nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), UV visible spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatography (GPC), and many more. These techniques aid in determining the molecular structure and composition of the polymer. The molecular weight of the polymer can be determined by GPC. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) are techniques that can aid in determining the thermal properties of the material. The review is centred around the existing literature on polyvinyl alcohol-based sensors to examine the current trends, shortcomings, and future scope of the field. The insights presented are intended to reveal research gaps that can lead to further innovations in the development of PVA-based sensing materials.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>