Abstract This article provides an overview of the issues and proposals surrounding wh ‐in‐situ since the 1980s. In particular, it discusses the question of whether or not in‐situ wh ‐phrases undergo covert wh ‐movement. Aside from reviewing the basic arguments for and against covert wh ‐movement, it considers alternative proposals put forth, ranging from movement of elements other than wh ‐phrases themselves, interpreting in‐situ wh ‐phrases using choice function, to disguised movements in various forms. The article concludes with a discussion of intervention effects, as well as a special kind of multiple wh ‐questions, illustrating that covert wh ‐movement is still much needed.