> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://polymarketguide.gitbook.io/polymarketguide/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://polymarketguide.gitbook.io/polymarketguide/resolution/how-to-participate/dispute/guidelines.md).

# Guidelines

Here are some guidelines to consider before disputing a proposal.

### Common reasons for disputes

Disputes commonly occur when:

* **P4 (Too Early):** The proposal was submitted before the market could be resolved under its rules.
* **Unclear Resolution:** The evidence is ambiguous or conflicting, or the rules are open to multiple reasonable interpretations.
* **Incorrect Proposal:** The proposed outcome is simply incorrect.

#### P4 (Too Early)

A proposal is too early when the market cannot yet be resolved under its rules.

This can happen when:

* the market deadline has not passed
* the required event or confirmation has not yet occurred
* the rules require a finalization, revision, or certification period that has not yet been satisfied

### What should I check before disputing?

Review the same things you would before proposing:

* whether the available evidence satisfies the resolution criteria
* any existing resolution discussions
* whether there is unresolved uncertainty about the outcome

The question is whether the existing proposal is correct under the market's rules.