Counting Rules
Two styles of electron counting are popular and both give the same result. The neutral counting approach assumes the molecule or fragment being studied consists of purely covalent bonds. It was popularized by M.L.H. Green along with the L and X ligand notation. It is usually considered easier especially for low-valent transition metals.
The "ionic counting" approach assumes purely ionic bonds between atoms. It rewards the user with a knowledge of oxidation states, which can be valuable. One can check one's calculation by employing both approaches, though it is important to be aware that most chemical species exist between the purely covalent and ionic extremes.
Read more about this topic: Electron Counting
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