Coupling and decoupling of "basin" and "range" is to study the uniform kinematic process and geodynamic mechanism of orogeny and basin development through viewing the two as a whole.It must be guaranteed by corresponding methodology.Three topics are discussed in this paper.(1)The "basin" and "range" system should be defined correctly on the basis of determining a certain time interval;(2)Two sets of classification systems should be used concurrently.Theoretical classification system is mainly used in "normal sequence" study and regional study

while practical classification system is mainly used in "reverse sequence" study and local(mainly refer to oil and gas reservoirs)study.(3)Thoughts

methods and technical means should be integrated together based on the successful study methods of orogenic belt and basin development in recent years.Coupling and decoupling of "basin" and "range" study

including its methodology

may provide new theoretical guidance for petroleum exploration in-mainland China.