Method for starting an internal combustion engine

The method involves setting the fuel pressure (FUP) in a pressure reservoir to a starting value at the beginning of a starting process; starting the engine (M) with a starter revolution rate (N_Starter); determining the time in which the engine revolution rate (N) is held at the level of the starter revolution rate; and if a defined period is exceeded, increasing the pressure in the pressure reservoir until the engine indicates a defined increase in its revolution rate.