Carbazole behaves on substitution like a derivative of diphenyl — amine, i. e., it is attacked first in the positions which are ortho or para to the imino group. Introduction of a substituent in the position meta to the nitrogen can only be accomplished indirectly. Thus, strongly
directing Class 1 groups may be introduced into both para positions so that the group entering subsequently is directed to a position meta to the nitrogen.
NO,
NH
Another possibility is to start out with biphenyl, introduce the desired substituents, and then introduce amino groups into the 2 and 2′ positions and close the carbazole ring.