In this paper, we developed a mathematical model to numerically analyze the coal pyrolysis and heat transfer inside a heated coal particle. The distributed activation energy model (DAEM) was used to depict the coal pyrolysis. The heat transfer and temperature variation of a coal particle were modeled with a transient energy conservation equation. The endothermic effect of decomposition and the transpirational convective heat transfer were taken into account in the model. We firstly validated the coupled comprehensive model with published experimental data of both pulverized coal and large particles. Then, the temperature history and coal pyrolysis of coal particle heated were numerically analyzed. To physically understand the transient temperature and volatile evolution of coal particle, we clarified the effects of endothermic of pyrolysis, transpirational convection and particle size. (c) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.