Embodiments in this application relate to method and apparatus for transmitting downlink control information. A network device determines downlink control information, where the downlink control information includes at least one information field. The network device sends the downlink control information to a terminal device in a common search space or a common control resource set, or sends the downlink control information to the terminal device in a specific search space or a specific control resource set. The terminal device receives the downlink control information, and determines information indicated by the at least one information field of the downlink control information. According to the solutions provided in the embodiments of this application, requirements of various communication scenarios can be better satisfied.