Image segmentation is in fact one of the most fundamental approach of digital image processing. In image processing, segmentation playa an important role. It may be defined as partitioning an image into meaning full regions or objects. In other words we can say that process of segmentation keeps on dividing an image into its constitute sub parts. The level to which the subdivision is carried on depends on type of problem to be solved by researchers. This segmentation process continues unless area of interest is isolated. Set of segment or set of contours that are extracted from the image is the main result of image segmentation. There are various application of image segmentation like locating tumors or other pathologies, measuring tissue volume, surgery aided by computer, treatment and planning, study of various anatomical structure, locating objects in satellite images, fingerprint. There are various types of generalized algorithm and methodology that are developed for image segmentation. Some common technique of image segmentation such as edge detection, thresh holding, region growing and clustering are taken for this study. In fact segmentation algorithm are based on two properties similarity and discontinuity. This paper concentrates on the various methods that are widely used to segment the image.