1. Lewis Dot Structures

2. Step 1 Figure out the number of electrons in your atom Example Sulphur 16

3. Step 2 Find out the number of electrons in the outer orbit (valence shell) Number of electrons – 2 Then subtract 8 until you get a number equal or less than 8 Ex. Cobalt 27e: 27 – 2 = 25 25 – 8 – 8 – 8 = 1 (less than 8)

4. Electrons in sulfur Sulfur’s atomic number = 16 16 – 2 = 14 14 – 8 = 6 (less than 8)

5. Step 3 Write out the atomic Symbol of your element: S

6. Step 4 Draw dots for the electrons on the top and bottom and sides of the symbols