Analyses of the carbonate platform have been carried out based on the achievements of previous researchers， combining with the authors studies of the carbonate platforms in the Tarim Basin and Sichuan Basin. The carbonate platform is divided into the following types according to geographical position， slope gradient， sealability of platform margin and rimming feature of platform， namely as: the gentle slope and open platform without rims， the gentle slope and restricted platform without rims， the steep slope and open platform without rims， the steep slope and restricted platform without rims， the gentle slope and open platform with rims， the gentle slope and restricted platform with rims， the steep slope and open platform with rims， the steep slope and restricted platform with rims， the reefbank isolated platform and the buildup isolated platform. The sedimentary characteristics of different types of platforms were investigated and their sedimentary models were established which can guide the hydrocarbon exploration of carbonate rocks. Finally， the main factors controlling the formation and development of carbonate platforms are discussed. The reseaarch indicates that paleotopography formed by tectonic movement and the water flow energy control the types of the platform and sediments and the sea level changes control the types of platform and the changes of sediments.
