 The bottom-up synthesis method remains the most widely used route for large-scale and low-cost production of carbon dots, CDs, but recent advancements have led to significant changes in structure and properties, prompting a new classification of CDs called carbonized polymer dots, CPDs. CPDs possess unique polymer slash carbon hybrid structures and properties, and this study provides insights into the effects of synthesis on their structure slash property features. The synthesis methods of CDs are also summarized, and the impact of bottom-up synthesis conditions on CPDs is comprehensively analyzed. Additionally, this research offers critical perspectives on the future development of CDs in various application fields. This article was authored by Chun Lai Xia, Shou Jun Zhu, Tang Lu Feng, and others.