ABSTRACT. A systematic study of Knoevenagel reaction and Nazarov cyclization was made on variety of less reactive carbonyl compounds such as β-ketoesters, 1, 3-diketones and cyclic active methylene compounds using Yb (OTf) 3 as the catalyst. Recycling study confirms reusability of the catalyst without much loss of activity. Key words: Knoevenagel Reaction, Nazarov cyclization, Yetterbium triflate, 1, 3-diketones, Ethyl acetoacetate