Here's a breakdown:

* Covalent bonds are formed when two or more atoms share electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration (usually a full outer shell). This sharing creates a strong attraction between the atoms, holding them together.

* Ionic bonds, on the other hand, form when one atom *donates* an electron to another, resulting in a positively charged ion and a negatively charged ion. These opposite charges then attract each other.

So, remember, sharing electrons = covalent bonds, while transferring electrons = ionic bonds.