The invention relates to a method and device for controlling an internal combustion engine comprising an inlet pipe leading to a cylinder input where a gas input valve is placed. Said engine also comprises a drive for the gas input valve which makes it possible to adjust a gas input valve lift for at least two values. The engine also comprises an injection valve for metering fuel and a spark plug which controls the crankshaft angle of air-fuel mixture ignition. Said internal combustion engine is controlled in a following manner: a fuel is metered at least once during the intake stroke of a cylinder when the valve lift (VL) passes from one value to the other and at least one final injection is carried out in a dosing manner only when the valve lift (VL) is really carried out.