Abstract: A method of controlling the profile of a sheet material while it is rolled between upper and lower working rolls that can be shifted axially and in opposite directions. The profile of each working roll that varies during the time interval between one changing of the working rolls and another is determined. On the basis of the determined roll profiles, the relationship between the amounts of shifting in the roll position and the configuration of the gap between the upper and lower rolls in the axial direction is determined, so as to determine the amount of shift in the roll position that will provide the smoothest possible configuration for the gap in the axial direction within the area of contact between the work and the working rolls. The upper and lower rolls are shifted axially in accordance with the determination of how to provide the smoothest possible configuration for the gap between rollers.