CHEMISTRY COMMUNITY

When drawing lewis structures, do we need to draw them in a way that reflect the molecular shape?
For example in sulfur tetrafluoride (SF4), during lecture we drew it with the lone pair on the left side of the sulfur (the equatorial plane). I believe this reflects the most stable shape with the least amount of repulsion. However for the upcoming test and final, would it matter where we drew the lone pair in the lewis structure?

I don't think you need to unless he specifically asks for it. Otherwise, you can just normally do a Lewis structure.

No, you don't need to draw the lewis structure to reflect the shape. However, is could assist you in determining the shape if you do so.

Yes, drawing out the lewis structure is great tool in determining the shape of the given molecule.

Dr. Lavelle stated during lecture that you do NOT need to draw the Lewis Structure to reflect the molecular shape. It would be very beneficial to do so but it is not required.