Abstract. For large real positive values of the parameter k asymptotic representations of integrals of the form , where f and g are analytic functions, can be obtained by using methods such as steepest desents. Here methods are considered for obtaining estimates, for fixed values of k, of the minimum errors achievable when such asymptotic representations are appropriately curtailed. A priori criteria are derived for the optimum point at which to curtail such asymptotic representations are appropriately curtailed. A priori criteria are derived for the optimum point at which to curtail such asymptotic representations. Both the curtailment points and the minimum errors are related to the distance between certain marked points on the path of integration and the singular points of f(u) and the zeros of g(u). The analysis permits the determination of errors whose presence is not indicated by the numerical behaviour of the asymptotic representations. It is also capable of extension to complex parameters k and to the derivation of asymptotic representations for the most significant errors. It can therefore be used to extend the domain of k for which asymptotic representations are available.