The value of fundamental research in coal combustions is still regarded as questionable by many concerned with utilization of research results or with providing research support. It is recognized that the record of the utility of fundamental research has not been outstanding to date, but it is argued here that this is very largely a function of the complexity of the problem which still has not been fully recognized, and the need for those computational facilities that have only become sufficiently available in the last decade or so. Three examples of effective modeling are discussed: the boiler flame, the one‐dimensional char flame, and the fixed‐bed gasifier that have identified important mechanisms with evident implications for utility of the results. A particular feature of the work discussed is the use of parsimoneous modeling which is shown to be particularly effective in obtaining useful results and in specifying priorities for future research. The importance of coupling experimental verification with the parsimoneous modeling is also emphasized. A particular problem identified, as an example of the evaluation of research priorities, is the need to understand the way in which the internal surface of coals and chars develop during reaction.