This review highlights how in situ and operando spectroscopic and scattering techniques are advancing our understanding of reticular materials such as MOFs and COFs. By probing these porous frameworks under working conditions, researchers can track active sites, reaction intermediates, and structural dynamics during catalysis, gas adsorption, and photochemical processes. The article surveys recent progress across characterization methods, discusses how these insights inform synthesis and design, and points to opportunities for developing more efficient materials for energy and environmental applications.
