Properties of statistical process control procedures may not be derived analytically in many cases; however, the application of a Markov chain can solve such problems. This article shows how to derive the properties of the process control procedures using the generated Markov chains when the control statistic satisfies the Markov property. Markov chain approaches that appear in the literature (such as the statistical design and economic design of the control chart as well as the variable sampling rate design) are reviewed along with the introduction of research results for application to a new control procedure and reset chart. The joint application of a Markov chain approach and analytical solutions (when available) can guarantee the correct derivation of the properties. A Markov chain approach is recommended over simulation studies due to its precise derivation of properties and short calculation times.