Abstract: A method is provided for characterizing the spurious, time dependent magnetic field gradient response and for compensating therefor. In accordance with the method, two small sample objects are placed at two positions with respect to the system isocenter where the gradient to be compensated has different values. A magnetic field gradient pulse is applied to the sample, followed by the application after a variable time of a 90.degree. radio frequency pulse. The phase of the resulting free induction decay (FID) signal is monitored as a function of total time since the end of the gradient pulse. These data are related to the impulse response of the gradient and are employed to construct compensation filters for both the gradient coils and the polarizing field shim coil.