Provides methods for preparation sampling from lots of calcined coke to obtain a sample that is representative of the average qualities of each entire lot. Suitable for cokes manufactured from pitch or petroleum specifically for use in the manufacture of electrodes used for the electrolytic production of aluminium. Requires as essential that the product shall be of uniform chemical composition and two samples should therefore be taken: the first at the time of loading, to check the quality of the product as supplied, the second at the time of unloading to check for possible contamination in transit.