To determine the focal length ($f$) of a concave mirror using the parallax method, the object must be positioned correctly relative to the mirror's optical points.
This specific placement ($P < \text{object distance} < F$) is crucial because it generates a virtual, erect, and magnified image behind the mirror.
The parallax method relies on aligning the object with this virtual image. Precise alignment is achieved by observing the lack of relative movement (parallax) between the object and its image against a distant background. This allows for accurate measurement needed to calculate the focal length ($f$).