VSEPR (Valence-Shell Electron-Pair Repulsion) theory predicts molecular shapes based on a simple principle: electron pairs around a central atom repel each other and position themselves as far apart as possible.

According to VSEPR rules, repulsions between electron pairs cause them to be located as far from each other as geometrically possible. This minimizes energy and determines the 3D shape of the molecule.

Key Concept: An electron grouping can be a single bond, double bond, triple bond, or a lone pair. For simplicity, we treat all bonds (single/double/triple) as one "electron group" that repels other groups.

The VSEPR approach has conceptual limitations but remains an effective tool for deducing molecular shape, especially for JEE and competitive exams.