The candidates’ performance was affected by the following shortcomings.

• non adherence to rubrics;
• lack of understanding of the demand of the questions;
• poor communication ;
• incomplete definition of some terms;
• poor knowledge of ionization energy;
• inability to sketch correct energy profile diagram for an endothermic reaction;
• inability to apply chemical concepts and principles to explain given observations;
• inability to use electron dots diagram to show the bonding in ammonium ion;
• poor understanding  of equilibrium constant;
• inability to draw correct structural formulae and give corresponding IUPAC name;. 
• poor mathematical/manipulative skills;
• illegible handwriting;
• inadequate preparation.

                                                                                                                                                                                                               
           Some remedies that were suggested for improving candidates’ performances included tackling the issues of

• adhering to rubrics;
• writing legibly;
• improving their communication skills;
• familiarizing themselves with the examination syllabus and consulting texts books.