Abstract: A positive photoresist composition in the form of solution which comprises a resin soluble in an aqueous alkaline solution, a 1,2-quinonediazide derivative as a photosensitizer, and at least one anti-halation agent in amounts of about 1 to about 10 parts by weight in relation to 100 parts by weight of the resin in the composition, the anti-halation agent being selected from the group consisting of dyestuffs of specific structures.