Abstract: On the basis of the exploration and exploitation comparison, taking Kouzidong mining field as an example, the rationality of the exploration methods used in the exploration phase is analyzed, and the exploration methods in deep areas are discussed. The results indicate that the tectonic characteristics, the thickness and stability of the coal seams, the mining geological conditions, the resources/reserves results in the exploration phase basically agree well with the results in the exploitation phase. It turned out that the exploration methods used in exploration phase were suitable. But there were some problems in the mining phase, such as serious tunnel deformation. It indicated the shortage of in-situ stress measurement in exploration phase. The paper pointed out it is necessary to strengthen the in-situ stress measurement in deep exploration to achieve the purpose to serve better the development of coal resources.