Abstract: One-dimensional (1-D) characteristic calculation, as a key link of the compressor design system, plays an important role in the initial design stage of the compressor. As a highly empirical engineering approximate calculation method, one-dimensional performance calculation requires the support of a large amount of experimental data. The quality of the empirical correlation obtained from the experimental data is the key to the success of the one-dimensional calculation. By fully investigating the 1-D performance analysis methods in Europe and the United States, which are mainly based on the stage stacking method and the meanline method, this paper reviews the origin of the 1-D characteristic calculation methods of the axial compressor, and discusses its development trend and research status. In addition, the basic principles of the 1-D characteristic calculation methods and the classic empirical correlations used are summarized, and the direction of future development of 1-D performance analysis of the compressor is pointed out.