Spinel Li4Ti5O12 has become a promising anode material for lithium ion batteries because of its flat voltage, long cycle life, "zero starin" and high safety. However, the electronic conductivity of pure Li4Ti5O12 is very low, leading to bad rate performance, which limits its practical application. Studies have proven that carbon coating on Li4Ti5O12 can effectively enhance the electrochemical performance. In this review, we summarized the recent developments of modification of Li4Ti5O12 anode material by carbon coating based on the studies in China and foreign countries. Moreover, the effects of different coating methods, carbon coating thickness, carbon structure and carbon content on the electrochemical properties of the Li4Ti5O12 / C composite were analyzed, shedding light on the further application of the Li4Ti5O12 / C composite as high-performance anode of lithium ion batteries.