A new and efficient method for preparation of a 7-en-6-one derivative of cholic acid is described. Acetylation of the known methyl 3alpha-carbethoxy-12alpha-hydroxy-7-oxo-5beta-cholan-24-oate (3) at 12 position and reduction of its 7-oxo group yield the 12alpha-acetoxy-7alpha-hydroxy derivative 5. Dehydration of the 7alpha-hydroxy group in 5 followed by allylic oxidation provide methyl 3alpha-carbethoxy-12alpha-acetoxy-6-oxo-5beta-chol-7-en-24-oate (7) in good yield.