Step 1 – Sketch the Lewis structure from the molecular formula, drawing approximate bond angles for each “central” atom.

Step 2 – Describe the electron-pair geometry around each central atom, by counting electron groups (bonding plus nonbonding) around the central atom. Also describe using the “AX_mE_n” formula.

Step 3– Describe the molecular structure (shape) around each central atom by counting bonding groups and nonbonding groups separately.

Step 4 – Predict whether the entire substance is polar or nonpolar. (Don’t just Google it!)

Step 5 – Predict the strongest intermolecular force between two molecules of the substance.

Step 6 – Predict whether the substance would mix with water. (Don’t just Google it!)