 Transition metal, TM, hydroxide and basic salts containing OH- and other anions have emerged as promising candidates for electrocatalysis of the oxygen evolution reaction, OER. These materials have shown superior catalytic activity compared to traditional noble metal-based electrocatalysts, making them attractive for applications in water electrolysis. This review provides an overview of the recent advancements in TM, basic salts and their application in OER and overall water splitting. The authors categorized these materials based on the anion type, CO3-2-NO3-F-Cl- which is a key factor for their outstanding performance towards OER. They also discussed the experimental and theoretical methods used to understand the structure evolution during OER and the effect of anion on catalytic performance. Additionally, they provided insights into how to improve the hydrogen evolution reaction, her activity of TM basic salts by modifying their structures and compositions. Finally, they concluded with a summary and perspective on the remaining challenges and future opportunities of TM basic salts as catalysts for water electrolysis. This article was authored by Bingrungua, Yanni Ding, Hao Hao Hua, and others.