Single phase perovskite-type oxides, polycrystal powder LaNiO3 and LaMnO3, have been prepared by decomposing mixed nitrates and citric acid compexing methods respectively. X-ray powder diffraction analysis showed that the formation of LaNiO3 was caused by a solid reaction in which mixed oxides were converted into LaNiO3; while LaMnO3 was growing out of amorphous substance directly. By DTA, TG and IR etc. measurements, it was found that ion NO3- took part in the formation of LaNiO3 and LaMnO3. at the same time, the function of the complexing agent was discussed. Citric acid favors formation of single phase pevovskite-type oxides, especially in the case of LaMnO3.