<p>Organic-rich hydrocarbon source rocks (HSRs) are important reservoirs for petroleum resources. Understanding their formation and controlling mechanisms is therefore critical for energy security and economic development. However, it is still much debated about the processes and control factors of the large-scale HSRs formation. Recently, volcanism has been increasingly assumed as an important trigger for the formation of high-quality HSRs during the Earth’s history. Previous studies have mainly emphasized the release of large amounts of nutrients (e.g., phosphorus, iron, and silicon) from volcanism, which enhances surface-water primary productivity and increases the flux of organic carbon to deep waters and sediments, thereby promoting organic matter burial. However, the volcanic impact on HSR formation is far more complex. Volcanism can profoundly modulate the formation of HSRs across a wide range of spatial and temporal scales by altering Earth’s surface habitability. This study systematically synthesizes the effects and underlying mechanisms of volcanism on the production, deposition, and preservation of organic matter. The aim is to develop a comprehensive framework for understanding the multifaceted role of volcanism in HSR formation, thus providing theoretical guidance for the exploration and development of petroleum resources.</p>