Statistical process control (SPC) is a method that uses statistical methods to monitor processes and ensure they operate efficiently. Key tools in SPC include control charts, which graph process data over time and establish upper and lower control limits to detect assignable causes of variation. Control charts come in two main types - variables charts that monitor quantitative measurements like weight or temperature, and attributes charts that count defects. The advantages of SPC include increased stability, predictability, and ability to detect attempts to improve processes. SPC has various applications in pharmaceutical manufacturing for monitoring characteristics like drug potency, fill weight, and microbial counts.