The present invention relates to an improvement in a method for amplifying a target sequence of a target polynucleotide. The method comprises combining a sample suspected of containing the target polynucleotide with reagents for amplifying the target sequence and subjecting the combination to conditions wherein the target sequence if present is amplified. The present improvement comprises including in the combination a control oligonucleotide and a control polynucleotide that has a sequence that is hybridizable with the control oligonucleotide. When the control oligonucleotide is bound to the control polynucleotide, the ability of a primer to chain extend along the control polynucleotide is reduced. Optionally, the control oligonucleotide is part of the control polynucleotide. The method finds particular application in the area of nucleic acid amplification and detection.