What procedures are followed for grading candidate performance?

The correct answer highlights that performance is graded based on established metrics, which include leadership effectiveness and tactical abilities. This approach ensures that evaluations are objective, consistent, and aligned with the core competencies required for future officers. Established metrics provide a structured framework that allows instructors to assess and quantify a candidate’s skills and performances comprehensively.

Leadership effectiveness is critical in military training, as future officers must develop the ability to lead, motivate, and manage their teams in various scenarios. Meanwhile, tactical abilities reflect a candidate's proficiency in operational skills and decision-making essential for success in military roles. Together, these metrics facilitate a thorough and balanced evaluation that prepares candidates for real-world challenges they will face in their careers.

The other options suggest methodologies that do not align with standard practices for grading performances in an officer training context, such as randomness in grading or focusing solely on physical fitness. Additionally, delaying grades until the end of the program would not provide candidates with the timely feedback necessary for improvement throughout their training.