Final answer:
The Articles of Confederation were characterized by a decentralized government, limited federal powers, and fragmented state policies.
Step-by-step explanation:
In your own words, three characteristics of the Articles of Confederation include a decentralized governmental structure, limitations in federal power, and challenges in unifying policies among states. First, the government under the Articles was distinctively decentralized with the principal authority residing at the state level, forming what was referred to as a "league of friendship," where states held more power than the national government. Second, the federal government had very restricted powers; it could pass laws with a three-quarter majority, conduct diplomatic affairs, and borrow and coin money, but it could not regulate trade, impose taxes, or enforce laws without a national judiciary.
Lastly, due to the lack of a strong federal system, states operated independently to a large extent, often issuing their own currency and imposing their own tariffs, which led to economic disparities and difficulty in maintaining a unified national policy.