Abstract: By using the Compton scattering theory, the generation of picosecond pulses of terahertz radiation has been studied, including the photon yield and radiant power. The results show that picosecond pulses of terahertz radiation are expected to be produced by Compton scattering of microwave photons interacting with electron bunches. The photon yield of a single electron is in direct proportion to the microwave power and wavelength, and in inverse proportion to the sectional area of microwave beam. The radiant power of a single electron is in direct proportion to the microwave power and the square of electron’s Lorentz factor, and in inverse proportion to the sectional area of microwave beam. The photon yield of electron bunch is in direct proportion to the squares of microwave power and wave