Identify the molecular ion peak
Determine the molecular weight from the highest significant m/z peak
Look for the base peak
Compare peak intensities to identify the most abundant fragment
Check the isotope pattern
Use M+1 and M+2 peaks to infer elements such as carbon, chlorine, and bromine
Identify common fragmentation patterns
Match fragment peaks to likely structural pieces
Determine the charge state if applicable
Calculate neutral mass when needed
Compare the spectrum with known reference spectra
Use exact mass to infer elemental composition
Consider adducts in the spectrum
Review the fragmentation pattern for functional groups
Confirm the proposed structure with all major peaks