Simultaneous determination of all alpha activity has always been and continues to be a highly desirable option in radiochemical analysis. However, the usual practice of gross alpha counting samples of raw water evaporated to dryness in planchets, air dusts collected on filters, planchets full of soils, etc., and then reporting the results quantitatively is neither accurate nor reliable, since it is virtually impossible to determine the correct counting efficiency with which the count was actually made. Attempts to calibrate empirically for a given set of conditions are also of marginal value because of wide variability in the deposition patterns. Direct gross alpha counting of samples without chemical preparation is useful when the activity present is substantially higher than that from the natural activity in its surroundings, or when a rapid order-of-magnitude indication of alpha activity is desired. All too often the results of these screening methods are reported with precision and accuracy that they cannot possibly have. Even is excess alpha activity is indicated, a gross alpha count cannot distinguish between a man-made transuranium (TRU) radionuclide and a naturally occurring one. The current procedure provides a true total alpha while eliminating the problems just discussed.