Abstract: The research of reservoir heterogeneity has remained as the core of fine reservoir description since its appearance, and has achieved remarkable progress so far. This paper briefed the history of the reservoir heterogeneity research, summarized its classification and description scheme, and concluded with the state of the art methods for the research of reservoir properties and heterogeneity, including the description of outcrop, sedimentary system analysis, level interface analysis, structural unit and flow unit analysis, high-resolution sequence study, statistics method and Lorentz curve method which is now commonly used. Key parameters and their applications in reservoir heterogeneity description are emphasized in order to provide a scientific basis for the residual oil exploitation in old blocks, and the forecast of favorable zone in new oil and gas exploration areas.