Catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) has evolved as a potential curative option for drug-refractory AF in recent years. AF not only causes physical morbidity but also jeopardizes the mental and social health of the patient as well as predisposing the patient to increased risk of thromboembolic events. Therefore, the primary end points of AF ablation have been restoration of sinus rhythm, improvement in the quality of life and lowering the risk of cerebrovascular accidents. However, even in the best hands, AF ablation is yet to be a total success. Several risk factors of AF and parameters of catheter ablation influence the short- and long-term ablation outcome. This article reviews all the information that has been contributed by prominent independent researchers over the last decade.