A method for starting an internal combustion engine by a compressed air starting system, in which in a first starting sequence the engagement of the starter is brought about by compressed air, a decompression valve for relieving the cylinder working space is acted on in the opening direction, and starting of the internal combustion engine is initiated by pulsed compressed air being applied to the starter. In a second starting sequence the decompression valve is acted on in the closing direction, and constant compressed air is applied to the starter.