In this paper, the authors present a systematic method for limit cycle analysis of single area power systems by using the stability equation method and the parameter plane method. This method can easily provide a more complete picture about the limit cycle characteristics such as the existence of multiple limit cycles, stability of limit cycles, the possible range of limit cycles for typical system parameters, as well as the effect of parameter variations on the limit cycles. In addition, the AGC rate limit can also be included in the analysis if necessary.