Schizophrenia is a very common psychiatric disorder. Most patients have a slow onset and atypical early symptoms that are easily overlooked. So, how can schizophrenia be recognized in its early stages? Generally speaking, the following aspects can help in identification. (1) Personality changes and neurotic-like symptoms are the most common manifestations of early schizophrenia: for example, patients become lonely, less talkative, disagreeable, absent-minded, have decreased academic performance, are irresponsible at work, have little interest, are lazy in life, and need supervision even for personal hygiene and living. Some patients may be sensitive, suspicious, unreasonable, temperamental, or may talk to themselves or laugh alone. Many patients have dizziness, headache, insomnia, dreaminess, mental depression and general discomfort, and even suspect that they are suffering from some incurable disease. (2) Thought disorders, emotional disorders and disorders of volitional activity are characteristic manifestations of schizophrenia. In the early stages of the disease, minor personality changes and neurosis-like symptoms are not easily noticed, but careful observation reveals that under the cover of these symptoms, patients often have strange ideas and their conversations are often off-topic, which is very puzzling. Some patients also experience delusions and hallucinations, and many appear to be cold, distant, or emotionally unstable and unpredictable. In addition, some patients may sit alone or wander all day, and their behavior is incomprehensible. Once these symptoms are detected, it is very important to diagnose schizophrenia. (3) Lack of self-awareness is a common characteristic of schizophrenic patients. Patients usually refuse to acknowledge that they are ill, they are unable to recognize their illness, and therefore are not eager to seek treatment or even refuse it. Even though very few patients may be vaguely aware that they are “sick,” when asked to make a specific analysis, it appears superficial and incomplete. These are the main points of early schizophrenia. However, sometimes the situation can be more complex for a specific patient and requires careful attention by a psychiatrist to avoid delays.