In a method and a pulse sequence optimization device to optimize a pulse sequence for a magnetic resonance system, wherein pulse sequence includes at least one refocusing pulse, a readout gradient pulse temporally situated after the refocusing pulse, and at least one readout spoiler pulse, the pulse duration of the readout gradient pulse is shortened while keeping the readout gradient moment constant, and the pulse shape of the readout spoiler pulse is adapted without changing a total spoiler moment. An optimally shortened pulse duration of the readout gradient pulse is achieved when, with the adaptation of the pulse shape of the readout spoiler pulse, a maximum amplitude of the readout spoiler pulse equals to the amplitude of the readout gradient pulse, and an edge steepness of the readout spoiler pulse is minimized.