Abstract: In a method for controlling, monitoring and checking a shaping procedure of a shaping machine, in particular riveting machine (R) on a workpiece (27) by means of a plunger (4) which is moved into contact with the workpiece (27), an upper plunger face (9) and/or a lower plunger face (10) for moving the plunger (4) being subjected to pressure, a change in pressure and/or change in force is measured when the plunger (4) strikes against the workpiece (27), in order to determine the start of a shaping operation, in particular the start of a riveting operation.