Self-consistent field method in various approximations: 'forgotten ideas'

A number of ideas and methods for theoretical studies of the structure and spectra of many-electron systems are considered. The main emphasis is on th e self-consistent field method in various approximations: single-and multi- configuration approaches, analytical and numerical radial wavefunctions, an d general methods of calculation of spin-angular parts of various matrix el ements. The importance is stressed of the use of the second quantization an d quasispin technique in coupled tensorial form.