In the reaction of anilines with 4-(benzylidene)-1,3-disubstituted pyrazol-5-ones, 1H-pyrazolo [3,4-b]quinolines were formed instead of anticipated 5-phenylimino derivatives. The same compounds were also available from the reaction of pyrazolin-5-ones with Schiff bases. In spite of moderate yields both methods present a facile route to 4-aryl-1H-pyrazolo [3,4-b]quinolines. These methods have advantages over the Friedländer cyclization commonly utilized for preparation of 4-aryl-1H-pyrazolo [3,4-b]quinolines. Thus, preparation of 2-aminobenzophenones, reagents indispensable in Friedlaender synthesis, can be avoided.