A method for determining a scanning ratio for a characteristic curve for the operation of an electromechanical valve for a camshaft adjuster in which an ambient temperature and a relative motion of a camshaft are determined at a reference point. In accordance with a specific ambient temperature and other operating conditions such as e.g., engine rpm, a holding scanning ratio is determined. Subsequently, at least one additional scanning ratio of an operating state is determined for a scanning ratio characteristic for the valve.