Formal Charge and Preferred Structure

[DevanCornelio_1I]

If two structures both add up to 0 for their formal charges, how do we know which one to pick?

[Alexis Harouni]

You should also take a look at which of the two follows the octet rule more closely, that one is generally preferred. Also consider that there can be resonance structures. However, I believe the answer to your question depends on the specific molecule being considered.

[Jasmin 2C]

If two structures both add up to 0 for their formal charges, then you can consider if the structure has resonance. If not you can see what structure has its electrons shared equally.