Clustering methods allow fast connection and also better routing and topology management of mobile ad hoc networks (MANET). In this paper a survey of clustering techniques for MANET is presented and some preliminary concepts for designing clustering algorithms are introduced. These concepts relate to network topology, routing schemes, graph partitioning and mobility algorithms. In addition, some of the most popular clustering techniques, such as Lowest-ID heuristic, Highest degree heuristic, DMAC (distributed mobility-adaptive clustering), and WCA (weighted clustering algorithm), among other techniques are described. The aim is to illustrate the main concepts concerning clustering techniques in mobile ad hoc networks.