Abstract: Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are a rapidly emerging low-carbon energy technology, characterized by high efficiency, the ability to utilize carbon-containing fuels, and compatibility with carbon capture and storage (CCS). However, the most used efficient nickel-based anode materials are prone to coking and deactivation when fueled with hydrocarbon fuels, which severely limits their commercial application. Although extensive research has been conducted to identify new alternative anode materials, new challenges such as low catalytic activity and complex fabrication processes of the fuel cells also need to be urgently addressed and overcome. Considering the excellent catalytic activity and mature technology of nickel-based anode materials, focusing on solving their surface coking problem to enhance the operational stability of the cells remains highly significant and promising. In this study, we investigated the coking mechanism on the catalyst surface under hydrocarbon fuel atmospheres and clarified the specific impacts of operating conditions and catalyst properties on carbon deposition. Based on this, we summarized various catalyst modification strategies to provide effective methods and reliable approaches to mitigate carbon deposition. Finally, we reviewed the current research issues and proposed future research directions, aiming to provide the material and theoretical basis for designing SOFC anodes with strong anti-coking capabilities in hydrocarbon fuel atmospheres, thereby promoting the further development and commercial application of SOFC technology.