AbstractOne of the current problems in the application of the X‐ray spectrometer is the training of operators in the use of instrumentation and techniques. One of the usual consequences of rapid expansion in the use of any instrumental procedure is the lack of general experience and expertise, and in this X‐ray spectrometry is no exception. As a technique it has only recently been introduced into the syllabus of the appropriate university course of study and, at the present time, this only at a very few universities. Training in X‐ray spectrometry has therefore become very much an extra‐mural course of study and among the more successful groups to offer courses in the U.S.A. has been the State University of New York at Albany. The following short report by Professor Chessin gives an informal description of the background of his ‘Clinics’ and describes some of his