1. How to create Lewis Dot Diagrams for an Element
Write electron configuration for the element (short cut)
Identify the electrons in the HIGHEST ENERGY LEVEL and draw orbital filling diagrams for them
Represent the pairs and single electrons as dots around the symbol for the element (the symbol represents the nucleus and inner energy level electrons)

2. How to create Lewis Dot Diagrams for a Compound
Create the Lewis Dot Diagrams for ALL the elements in the compound
Identify the element with the most single electrons (This will become your central atom)
Place the remaining elements around the central atom to create “octets”