AbstractThe preparation and oxidation of 2,3‐dihydroindazoles to 1H, 2Hor 3H‐indazoles is described. A method for the synthesis of indazole 2‐oxides has been found. Oxidation of 2‐acetyl‐2,3‐dihydro‐3,3‐disubstituted indazoles5aand5cgave quinoid compounds20a, 20b, 24aand24b, which could be isomerized to 3H‐indazoles upon removal of the acetyl group. A quinoid compound21was also obtained on treatment of5awith t