A method for synthesizing a circuit layout, characterized by the following features: primary circuit functions are placed on the circuit layout; secondary circuit functions are placed on the circuit layout; at least one first mask is generated in such a way that the first mask reproduces the primary circuit functions and covers the secondary circuit functions when a semiconductor substrate is structured according to the circuit layout by way of the first mask; and the placement of the circuit functions takes place in such a way that at least one changed mask reproduces the primary circuit functions and the secondary circuit functions when the semiconductor substrate is structured according to the circuit layout by way of at least one second mask.