A method for operating an internal combustion engine with compression ignition or with spark ignition as a function of an operating point. A specific residual exhaust-gas quantity in the combustion space is set for compression ignition. The internal combustion engine is operated as a function of the operating point by an outlet cam, by which a first outlet opening phase and a second outlet opening phase take place. The second outlet opening phase commences during an inlet opening phase. At a first operating point in a compression-ignition mode, a residual exhaust-gas quantity in a combustion space is dimensioned as a function of a valve interference set between the inlet and the outlet valve during a charge exchange. At a second operating point in the compression-ignition mode the residual exhaust-gas quantity in the combustion space is dimensioned as a function of a duration of the second outlet opening phase.