This thesis examines the conductor's preparation process of learning and interpreting the score before standing in front of an ensemble. The research is based on studies of historical and modern conducting handbooks supplemented by interviews with professional conductors. A selection of the preparation methodologies presented in the litterature and the qualitative study are tested and examined in the preparation process of two concerts. Finally the selected methodologies are compared and judged on two key factors; efficiency and the quality of the final artistic result. The results of the study are presented both as a list of conditions that can ensure an effective preparation process with a high quality of the final artistic result and as a concrete methodology that can be applied and adapted by any conductor in his or her own preparation process.