Find the atomic number
Determine the total number of electrons
Use the Aufbau principle
Fill orbitals in order of increasing energy
Follow the Pauli exclusion principle
Place a maximum of two electrons in each orbital
Give paired electrons opposite spins
Apply Hund’s rule
Put one electron in each equal-energy orbital before pairing
Use the correct orbital order
1s
2s
2p
3s
3p
4s
3d
4p
5s
4d
5p
6s
4f
5d
6p
7s
5f
6d
7p
Write the electron configuration
Check the valence electrons
Use noble gas shorthand if needed
Verify the arrangement for ions if applicable