# Placing a Prediction

Meridian Predict matches your prediction through a request-for-quote (RFQ) auction: you assemble a prediction and market makers compete to offer you the best odds, all in a few seconds. Here is the full flow.

## 1. Enter Your Prediction

Select one or more outcomes to add them to your prediction. Each selection is a [pick](/trading/predictions/predictions-and-picks), a question paired with the side you expect. Add a single pick for a simple prediction, or several to build a combo where every pick must be correct.

## 2. Set Your Stake

Enter the amount of USDe you want to trade. The prediction slip shows your [odds and projected payout](/trading/predictions/odds-and-payouts), including the multiplier and the total you'd receive if your prediction wins, and updates as you add or remove picks.

## 3. Run the Auction

When you place the prediction, it is broadcast to all makers, who compete to take the other side. Each responds with a signed quote, and the best offer (the one giving you the best odds) is selected automatically. Quotes expire quickly, so the auction completes in seconds.

## 4. Confirm

Review the final odds and payout, then confirm the prediction with your wallet. The smart contract collects collateral from both you and the winning market maker and issues your position. From this point your odds and payout are locked in.

## 5. Hold Your Position

Your position represents your prediction(s) at the odds you locked in. You can:

* **Hold to resolution** and redeem if you win. See [Resolution & Settlement](/trading/predictions/resolution-and-settlement).
* **Exit early** by selling your position before the question resolves. See [Secondary Market](/trading/predictions/secondary-market).
* **Bridge it to Arbitrum** to trade on another network. Your position bridges from Robinhood Chain to Arbitrum; the underlying prediction and its resolution are unchanged, and you bridge back to Robinhood Chain to redeem.

You can review all of your open and settled predictions in your portfolio.

:::info
The auction only routes quotes and selects the best one. Market maker quotes are signed and verified onchain, and the smart contract is the sole authority over collateral and payouts.
:::