When evaluating any treatment modality for incontinence, it is essential that the severity of incontinence is measured. There are various ways of determining the severity of incontinence, such as quality-of-life questionnaires and pad tests. The use of frequency/volume charts to collect data concerning voiding patterns was first introduced in 1974. Since then, charts ranging from 24 hours to seven days in duration have been developed, and a number of studies have been published describing the evaluation of frequency/volume charts. A review of the literature found that the frequency/volume chart was useful for collecting data, but had limited diagnostic capabilities. The seven-day frequency/volume chart was the most evaluated and recommended, although some authors reported problems with compliance as a result of the extended duration. This problem may be resolved with the use of three-day frequency/volume charts, although further evaluation is needed.