Multiplets that arise from scalar couplings in one- and two-dimensional NMR spectra can be considered as if they resulted from several successive convolutions with in-phase and antiphase doublets of d functions with splittings that correspond to scalar coupling consts. If the splittings are know or if they can be detd. by trial and error, the multiplets can be simplified by several successive deconvolutions. Provided a criterion can be defined for the success of each deconvolution step, the magnitudes of the scalar coupling consts. can be measured with great accuracy. The strengths and limitations of this approach are illustrated by simulation and expt. [on SciFinder (R)]