Lithium-ion batteries have attracted extensive attention due to their high power density, excellent safety performance and superior cyclability. At present, in order to meet the growing demand for energy storage applications, researchers have done a lot of work in the development of anode materials for lithium-ion battery with more excellent electrochemical performance. According to the different electrochemical reaction mechanisms of anode materials for lithium ion battery during charging and discharging, the advantages/disadvantages and electrochemical reaction mechanisms of intercalation-type anode materials (graphite, TiO2, lithium titanate, etc.), conversion-type anode materials (Fe2O3, NiO, etc.) and alloying-type anode materials (Si, Ge, P, etc.) are introduced in detail. The methods and strategies for improving electrochemical performance of different types of anode materials are emphatically described. This review can provide important reference value for the construction and performance optimization of anode materials for lithium ion battery.