High-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) features both high resolution and high mass accuracy and is a powerful tool for the analysis and quantitation of compounds, determination of elemental compositions, and identification of unknowns. A hands-on laboratory experiment for upper-level undergraduate and graduate students to investigate HRMS is described. This experiment was developed in response to students' requests and provides a hands-on overview of the range of capabilities of an HRMS instrument. Students were encouraged to explore and investigate all the various modes in which the instrument can be operated. This experiment prompted students, even those with little experience in mass spectrometry, to think about how HRMS could be best incorporated into their research projects.