 Graphene quantum dots, GQDs, are a new type of fluorescent carbon material with excellent properties and potential applications in biological, optoelectronic and energy-related fields. Several methods exist for the fabrication of GQDs, including top-down and bottom-up approaches. Top-down methods involve oxidative cleavage, while bottom-up methods include hydrothermal or solvothermal processes, ultrasonic-assisted or microwave-assisted processes, electrochemical oxidation, controllable synthesis, and carbonization from small molecules or polymers. These methods can be used to study the characteristics of GQDs and their impact on the final properties of the GQDs. Recent advances in the applications of GQDs include sensors, bio-imaging, drug carriers, and solar cells. Future research should focus on developing new preparation methods and exploring the properties of GQDs. This article was authored by Chen Wei-feng, LV Gua, Hu Wei-men, and others. We are article.tv, links in the description below.