We present a new approach (distinct from Gel ′ fand-Levitan) to the theorem of Borg-Marchenko that the m-function (equivalently, spectral measure) for a finite interval or half-line Schrödinger operator determines the potential. Our approach is an analog of the continued fraction approach for the moment problem. We prove there is a representation for the m-functionis a function of q on [0, a] and vice-versa. A key role is played by a differential equation that A obeys after allowing x-dependence:Among our new results are necessary and sufficient conditions on the mfunctions for potentials q 1 and q 2 for q 1 to equal q 2 on [0, a].