Abstract: This short review considers the most frequently used sample preparation procedures and analytical techniques for estimating selenium in biological materials. Automated wet ashing using a mixture of HNO3/HClO4, and flow injection hydride-generation atomic absorption spectrometry (FI-HG-AAS) are discussed in detail. Automated wet ashing has been used successfully for many years. More recently experience in method development and in comprehensive routine work has been achieved by using automated and computerized FI-HG-AAS. Other methods have more or less comparable sensitivity and detection limits, thus choice of method is mainly influenced by economics and practical/routine requirements. Available equipment, staff, type and quality of sample, length of sample series and expected Se concentrations are all decisive factors in choice of method.