A method for operating an internal combustion engine includes providing at least one gas exchange valve that is used by at least one of the working cylinders of the internal combustion engine as an exhaust-gas recirculation valve. In a predetermined operating state of the internal combustion engine, the exhaust-gas recirculation valve is opened at least twice within a working cycle of 720 degrees of the crankshaft, wherein an opening duration of the first opening of the exhaust-gas recirculation valve at least overlaps in time with an opening of the outlet valve during the exhaust stroke and wherein an opening duration of the second opening of the exhaust-gas recirculation valve at least overlaps in time with an opening duration of the inlet valve during the intake stroke, wherein the exhaust-gas recirculation valve is closed between the first opening and the second opening.