This term has two meanings. One refers to script in general inscribed on bamboo or wooden slips. The other refers to documentary proofs, particularly proof of property ownership inscribed on bamboo or wooden slips before paper was invented. Various activities and matters were recorded on the front side. A number of tooth-like marks were carved on one side. There are usually two copies of the document, each held by one of the two parties concerned for future re-verification. After the Western and Eastern Han dynasties, script inscribed on bamboo or wooden slips gradually fell into disuse, whereas documents of proof carved on the same medium continued to be used.

In Chinese high antiquity people tied knots to keep records. The sages of later generations, on the other hand, used writing for the same purpose. (The Book of Changes)

The character shu refers to written characters, whereas qi means the marks made on one side of bamboo or wooden slips to record matters and activities. Another interpretation is that shuqi refers to documents that guarantee the validity of a pledge or proof. (Lu Deming: An Interpretation of Confucian and Other Classics)