HASTE (Half fourier Single-shot Turbo spin-Echo) is a single-section T2-weighted sequence that acquires images in less than 1 second. Images are breathing independent and possess a variety of other features useful for imaging the abdomen. The design of this technique is described. Clinical studies of 38 consecutive patients were performed using this technique. HASTE images were considered good in 28 and fair in 10 patients, including five patients who could not suspend respiration. Definition of liver and bowel was particularly clear.