An improved method is provided for operating a power tool. The method includes receiving an input control variable from an input unit; receiving at least one tool parameter relating to the power tool; determining a derivative of the input control variable; selecting one of a plurality of control profiles based on the control input variable, the derivative of the input control variable, and the tool parameter, each control profile correlating the control input variable of the input unit to a rotational speed at which to drive the output shaft; and driving the output shaft at a rotational speed in accordance with the selected control profile.