1. show all formal charges and partial charges on atoms that have them.
2. identify the electron pair donor and the electron pair acceptor (the electrophile).
3. consider the electrophile. Is it primary, secondary, or tertiary
4. consider the electron pair donor. Is it a strong or weak nucleophile? Is it a strong or weak base? Is it sterically hindered?
5. is the solvent protic or aprotic?
6. determine whether the dominant reaction will be sn2,e2,or sn1 and e1.