Vocabulary is the core of language learning.The efficiency of vocabulary learning may influence language learning outcome.Vocabulary learning strategies can help the learners to learn vocabulary more efficiently,and they are very useful and beneficial for language learners.This paper synthesizes the research on vocabulary learning strategies in ESL and EFL learning,including the studies on the definitions of vocabulary learning strategies,classifications of vocabulary learning strategies and previous main research areas.The previous research areas mainly involve in the following aspects:patterns and taxonomies of vocabulary learning strategies,gender difference and vocabulary learning strategies,language proficiency and vocabulary learning strategies,major or disciplinary difference and vocabulary learning strategies,vocabulary learning strategies used frequently and effectively,vocabulary learning strategies and learning outcomes,and vocabulary learning strategy training.