The method of MATLAB-aid design of active analog filters is introduced after a briefly review of the traditional design method. By comparing the two methods on the key steps of active analog filter design, it is clearly showed that MATLAB can simplify the process of designing active analog filters. Based on the features of active analog filters, the rules of zero-pole distribution and cascading order are proposed. Simultaneously, the method of getting filter’s amplitude/phase vs. frequency character by MATLAB is introduced and it can offer a reference for debugging the filters. Through a certain example, the method proposed in this paper is proved to be simple, understandable and feasible.