This paper suggests a scheme for compensating the effects that the near‐surface stratification, variable from spread to spread, produces on both the character and the timing of the seismic traces. For this purpose, accurate near‐surface velocity information is mandatory. This scheme should greatly reduce the correlation difficulties so frequently encountered in many areas. It may also be used to enhance the resolving power of the seismic reflection technique. The approach presented here is based on the rather restrictive assumptions of normal incidence, parallel equispaced plant reflectors, and noiseless conditions.