What does the formal charge tell us?

[Jennifer1E]

I understand that the formal charge indicates gain or loss of electrons, so does this mean that if I get a formal charge of +1 then 1 electron has been loss? Can I get clarification.

[alexis castro 1B]

Yes when you get a charge of +1 an electron has been lost but most important formal charge tells us which lewis structure is the most stable.

[504754253]

Yes, so if the charge is + it loses , and - it gains

[904571591]

I think it can judge the ability to loss or absorb electrons, and how many electrons can the atom or group loss or absorb.