In order to solve the problem of low drilling rate in Xujiahe formation of Fenshuiling structure in northeast Sichuan, study has been carried out to improve drilling rates. First, the mineral components and rock mechanics parameters in Xujiahe formation have been obtained through analysis of the engineering geological characteristics. Then, the technical route and measures for speeding up drilling rates in Xujiahe formation have been specifically analyzed and discussed. Applications in F3 well have demonstrated that drilling rates increased in different degrees with use of gas drilling and the combined drilling of screw tool+ hybrid bit and torsional impact tool+ hybrid bit. Meanwhile, the highest average rate of penetration with gas drilling reached 4.78m/h, and increased by 4.49 times compared with conventional drilling.