The δ¹³C method, which is a new technique for researching on soil organic matter (SOM) dynamics in recent years, possesses not only virtues of the radioactive ¹⁴C labeling methods, but also some specific merits.For instance, it is nonradioactive and long-term in labeling, and is able to evenly and economically label all SOM fract ions and be carried out directly on samples collected from an experimental site.So δ¹³C method has been ut ilized extensively to study origin of SOM and its fractions, to quantify C turnover, and to investigate historical changes in C₃/C₄ vegetation.With the quick development of this method and cont inuous improvement of various analytical techniques of the δ¹³C values, the δ¹³C method displays a new vitality in studying soil processes, especially soil carbon cycling.In order to promote the application of the δ¹³C method in researches at home, a comprehensive summary is made in this article of factors affecting δ¹³C values of SOM, and applications of the method in researching on SOM at home and abroad and the δ¹³C values analytical technique.