This invention relates to a preparation method for square and needle-like nano-titanium dioxide with nanometer microcrystalline cellulose as crystallization inducer. The method comprises preparing nanometer microcrystalline cellulose dispersing solution with concentration of 0.01-5 wt.%, adding additive, ultrasonic-treating, adding titanium tetrachloride into the dispersing solution, wherein the weight ratio of nanometer microcrystalline cellulose to titanium tetrachloride is 1:1-1:150, stirring at 20- 120DEG C for 2-15 hours, and regulating these conditions to obtain square, needle-like nano-titanium dioxide. The invention has the advantages of cheap raw materials, simple process, easy operation, good repeatability, mild reaction conditions, low temperature, short response time, and no torrefaction. Through regulating conditions, the morphology of titanium dioxide can be controlled, achieving regular size distribution and morphology. The nano-titanium dioxide can be widely used in photoelectric materials, decorative materials, and the environmental catalytic materials.