Characteristics of smoke movement and smoke control in a shaft is a serious issue that closely related to the fire safety of high-rise building. This paper talks about the studies on the characteristics of smoke movement in a shaft of high-rise building from three aspects: the factors which influence smoke movement in a shaft, the distribution of smoke parameters and the upward velocity of smoke flow. Smoke control methods which are commonly used and the problems in engineering practice are summarized. Some methods thoughts are given to improve the efficiency of smoke control.