Let us divide variable stars into two main groups: the first “classical” group, includes objects known for a long time, such as Cepheids, RR-Lyrae stars, Miras, cataclysmic variables, eclipsing binaries, etc. The second group includes micropulsating variables of δ Scuti and β Cephei types, magnetic variables, rotating variables of BY Draconis type, etc.

Historically, the contribution of amateurs in investigating the first group was very significant, and it continues to increase. On the other hand, involvement in studying the second group of stars was practically equal to zero some years ago, but today one can see the beginnings of an expansion of amateur work on this second group of variables – among brighter objects, of course. One reason is the beginning of cooperation between amateurs and professional astronomers having powerful instruments.