Hydraulic fracturing techniques have been widely used in China to create complex fracture networks in shale reservoirs，while shale reservoirs exhibit high heterogeneity due to the difference in mineral compositions and the widespread presence of discontinuous interfaces（beddings and natural fractures），which directly affects and constrains the hydraulic fracturing effects in reservoirs.Based on the heterogeneity of microscopic mineral composition and macroscopic structure of shale，the research progress of fracture propagation patterns of hydraulic fracturing is systematically described. Firstly，the impact of brittle degree caused by mineral composition differences on the fracture propagation patterns of hydraulic fracturing is analyzed. Secondly，the key geological and engineering factors affecting the interaction modes between fractures by hydraulic fracturing and natural fractures are summarized，and the interaction mechanisms between fractures by hydraulic fracturing and natural fractures are discussed. Finally，the influence mechanisms of shale bedding on the fracture propagation of hydraulic fracturing is studied，and the influence law of key parameters such as bedding plane inclination，cementation strength，and density on the bedding plane cracking and fracture penetration and propagation patterns of hydraulic fracturing is expounded. This paper reviews the existing problems and development trends in the research on hydraulic fracturing of heterogeneous shale and provides an important theoretical basis for the optimization of fracture design.