Abstract: In the large-area blackout scenario, aiming at the critical load restoration problem for the active distribution network with multiple soft open points（SOPs）, this paper proposes a two-step load restoration method. Firstly, a mixed-integer second-order cone program（MISOCP） is solved to determine the optimal restoration strategy in each period. Secondly, according to the recovery operation rule proposed in the second step, the switch operation sequence and SOP control mode of operation state transition between adjacent periods are determined. Among them,the MISOCP model aims to maximize the weighted load power supply time, which considers the operation constraints of the distribution network, SOP and power supply, etc. The restoration operation rule aims to restore the power supply of critical loads as quickly as possible. According to the first-step optimal recovery strategy and the role of the SOP in the system, switch operation and SOP control mode switching are carried out. In the case study, a hand-in-hand distribution network is used for comparison and verification. The results show the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed two-step load restoration method.