In this paper, the advance of study of atomization efficiency for graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry was reviewed. The fundamental theory and the various calculated equations of atomization efficiency, as well the relationship among beta m, beta i(exp) and beta i(cal) were described. Problems requiring further improvement in the investigation of atomization efficiency of graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry were discussed. Peak area atomization efficiency is more practical than peak height. Because the mean residence time (tau R) of atoms in the furnace is larger than tau D (tau D = l2/8D, l is the tube length and D is the diffusion coefficient), calculated peak area atomization efficiency in the furnace is larger than experimental. Part of the atomization efficiency is affected by atomic loss mechanism. An important aspect of researching atomization efficiency is conducted mainly to improve the sensitivity and limit of detection of the analysis method.