This review analyses recent trends in graphene research and applications, and attempts to identify future directions in which the field is likely to develop. Graphene - the thinnest material in the universe, produced by epitaxial growth and exfoliation - can be used to make excellent transistors and is a promising alternative to conventional transparent electrode materials. Graphene and scanning probe microscopy (SPM) techniques will remain linked together, and will take mutual advantage of their peculiar characteristics.