Abstract: A method of a device for determining the spectral distribution of a nuclear magnetization in a limited volume, wherein each sequence of r.f. and gradient excitation comprises a sub-sequence which dephases the nuclear magnetization everywhere outside a defined layer. This sub-sequence is followed by three r.f. pulses, the first two of which are layer-selective. These three r.f. pulses excite the nuclear magnetization in an area of intersection between said layer and two layers which extend perpendicularly to one another and to said layer. In order to suppress undesirable FID signals and to enhance the spectrum, phase cycling is performed.