Board Thread:Episode Discussions/@comment-1251315-20150219132354/@comment-5273810-20150222080134

Hawkeye2701 wrote: BlueLantern1995 wrote: If I remember correctly they said because the exams weren't completed, people said no one should pass except for Shikamaru as he was the only one who showed enough qualities of a Chunin before it abruptly ended. Thus I have always assumed that if the exams had continued Sasuke, Naruto, and Neji would have definitely made it. I beg to differ good Sir... Or Madam. Neji and Naruto's fight concluded before everything went nuts, and yet Neji was not awarded any form of merit. Sasuke and Naruto 'might'have gotten to Chunin given more chance to display their skills (Presuming Sasuke had won his bout and the test continued as normal) but it seems unlikely, as despite both displaying great strategy and combat prowess in their fights, only Shikamaru seemingly displayed the qualities they were looking for, which I would assume to be a cool head (Something both lack) and a methodical approach to tactics (Something naruto lacks) and good time keeping skills (Sasuke screwed the pooch on this one).

All of which were displayed when Shikamaru calmly and carefully overcame Temari, even taking the time of day into account and how he could use that. Its sir :). But back to topic, I always assumed that the test was to ascertain your skills in combat, strategy, teamwork, determination, and leadership. Timing isn't something I thought they were going for(as in that case Kakashi wouldn't be a Jonin Commander, he's late for everything). The first test was to check your teamwork and determination to get the job done, Naruto and Sasuke passed. The 2nd also tested teamwork and combat ability both Naruto and Sasuke pass again. It would be impossible to pass the 2nd round without the teamwork. As for Round 3, I always assumed it was just a show of strength. It just so happened in that one fight Shikamaru showed the attitude of a Chunin. Sasuke had the combat power of a Chunin, and the intelligence to gauge his opponent. And had the recognition of the proctor as having Chunin level abilities. If what you are saying about the overall Chunin thing is true(and I'm not necessarily disagreeing) then wouldn't Choji never pass as he can't think up a strategy if his life depended on it never mind lead a team(I mean look at his fight with Kakuzu and Hidan). Yes he has the teamwork down, but he lacks the leadership and thinking. Naruto and Neji never mind Sasuke had Choji's level in qualities at that time if not beyond. Taking the Chunin Exams I always assumed didn't equal being a good squad leader as in that case Choji(sorry Choji to keep picking on you),Kiba, Rock Lee, and Ten Ten would by my knowledge anyway never make it.