<p>A sustainable solution to the intermittent nature of solar energy is using photocatalysts powered by sunlight to produce hydrogen from water, which offers a green substitute for fossil fuels. As the most promising semiconductor material for photocatalytic water splitting, TiO₂-based nanomaterials have received increasing attention from researchers in academia and industry in recent years. However, challenges remain to be addressed, such as a large bandgap, electron–hole recombination, preparation imperfections, and the possibility of excessive H2 production. Several approaches, including the addition of electron donors, doping, and defect engineering have been studied to overcome these constraints and enhance TiO₂ performance. Here, we provide a concise overview of the various techniques used to synthesize TiO₂-nanostructured photocatalyst. The present study also provides an overview of recent studies on the various factors influencing the photocatalytic process that produces H2 through water splitting. Important properties of photocatalysts include surface chemistry, particle size, pH, temperature, light source, electron donors, band gap, and the synthesis of both pure and doped TiO₂ photocatalyst materials are also discussed. Additionally, a comparative hydrogen generation rate is tabulated to get insight into the most effective synthesis process and type of TiO₂ for effective photocatalysis.</p> Graphical abstract <p></p>