Epigraphists face numerous challenges in their work. One major problem is technical limitations where letters are very faintly engraved, making reconstructions uncertain. Additionally, inscriptions are often damaged with letters missing, complicating the reading process.

Another significant challenge is understanding the exact meaning of words used in inscriptions. Some words may be specific to a particular place or time, making interpretation difficult. This leads to constant debates and discussions among scholars about alternative ways of reading inscriptions.

A practical problem is that while several thousand inscriptions have been discovered, not all have been deciphered, published and translated. This creates a gap in available historical evidence.

Furthermore, many inscriptions that must have existed have not survived the ravages of time. What is available at present is probably only a fraction of what was inscribed. This means epigraphy alone cannot provide a full understanding of political and economic history.