Green chemistry is currently attracting more and more attention due to its eco‐friendly, and green carbon dots (g‐CDs) are creating a research boom. The g‐CDs have huge application prospects in analysis and detection due to their excellent optical properties, high biocompatibility, and low toxicity compared to other fluorescent materials. Based on the study of g‐CDs, the optical properties, synthesis methods, surface modification methods, and sensing mechanisms of g‐CDs are outlined, and the application in analysis and detection of environmental, food, biomolecules, and other organic small molecules are reviewed. At the same time, the challenges faced by g‐CDs are outlined. This review provides valuable references for further research and wider application of g‐CDs.