In one experiment you do not have the metal oxalate product as dry as possible how might this affect the pyrolysis procedure

Pyrolysis is a thermochemical decomposition of organic material at elevated temperatures in the absence of oxygen (or any halogen). If the metal oxalate product is not dry as possible, then the reaction would not be complete. Pyrolysis differs from other processes like combustion and hydrolysis in that it usually does not involve reactions with oxygen, water, or any other reagents.