Abstract: A method is provided for regulating an actual value of a variable, which characterizes a position of an actuator, to a setpoint value using a regulator, which method makes it possible to optimize regulation in terms of bandwidth, stability, accuracy, and sturdiness. A predefined time characteristic of the setpoint value is transformed into a desired time characteristic of the actual value. A first transfer function is formed in the frequency domain and is approximated using one or more factors, in particular delay elements, to transform the predefined time characteristic of the setpoint value into the desired time characteristic of the actual value. A nonintegral exponent is selected for at least one of the factors.