Method acting is a phrase that loosely refers to a family of techniques by which actors try to create in themselves the thoughts and emotions of their characters in an effort to develop lifelike performances. It can be contrasted with more classical forms of acting, in which actors simulate thoughts and emotions through external means, such as vocal intonation or facial expression. Though not all Method actors use the same approach, the "method" in Method acting usually refers to the practice, advocated by Lee Strasberg, by which actors draw upon their own emotions and memories in their portrayals, aided by a set of exercises and practices including sense memory and affective memory.

Method actors are often characterized as immersing themselves in their characters to the extent that they continue to portray them even offstage or off-camera for the duration of a project. However, this is a popular misconception. While some actors have employed this approach, it is generally not taught as part of the Method.

Method acting이란, 배우들이 연기라고 생각하지 않고 실제상황이라고 자신들에게 설정한 뒤 생각과 감정몰입을 그 캐릭터에 맞추는 것을 말한다. 이것은 전형적인 연기 스타일과는 상반되는데 그이유가, 전형적인 연기스타일은 외부로부터 감정을 끌어들이는 것이 보편적이었기 때문이다 (목소리 높낮이, 표정 등). 모든 Method 배우들이 똑 같은 연기접근을 구사하지는 않지만, Method 연기의 Method는 연습하다 라고 표현되는데 이것은 배우들 자신 안에서의 감정과 기억력을 끌어내어서 캐릭터에 접목시키는 것이다.

Method 배우들이 카메라 밖에서도 캐릭터에 몰입되어 살아가는 경향을 보일 때도 있는데 이것은 일반적인 오해이다. 많은 배우들이 이런 방법을 써왔지만, Method 연기는 이렇게 가르치지는 않는다.