Abstract: A study on small coal pillar along-the-goaf roadway excavation is conducted at the 4034Upper 09 working face of the Dafosi Coal Mine.We employ theoretical calculations and numerical simulations to investigate the stress distribution patterns in the coal mass adjacent to the gob during the mining process.The research findings indicate that the abutment stress within the adjacent-gob-side coal mass first increases to its peak value, and then decreases to the level of the in-situ rock stress.The peak position is approximately 3.48 meters away from the goaf.When the width of the coal pillar exceeds 8 meters, the vertical stress within the coal pillar exhibits a “double-hump” distribution pattern.Moreover, the peak value of the maximum lateral stress is located at a distance of 3 to 4 meters from the goaf.By fully taking into account for the practical requirements of the engineering site, it has been concluded that the optimal width for the retained coal pillar is 8 meters.Compared with the previous 30 meter coal pillar in the mine, the 8 meter coal pillar not only maintains the stability of the roadway but also increases the recovery rate of coal resources.