Since the first magnetic analyses of archaeological materials were carried out over a century ago, archaeomagnetic reference curves are now available covering the last few millennia. It would seem to be an appropriate time to examine the archaemagnetic record to see how it can be improved. For directional studies the disturbing factors include magnetic refraction, mechanical deformation, local magnetic field anomalies, and magnetic anisotropy. In the complex field of archaeointensity there is a real need for faster and more reliable methods.The use of sediments on Palaeolithic sites will be increasingly important for the dating of early hominids.