1. Achieving a full outer shell of electrons: Atoms are most stable when their outermost electron shell is completely filled. This is because a full outer shell represents a low-energy state. Atoms can achieve this by:

* Gaining electrons: Nonmetals often gain electrons to achieve a full outer shell, becoming negatively charged ions (anions).

* Losing electrons: Metals often lose electrons to achieve a full outer shell in the previous energy level, becoming positively charged ions (cations).

2. Forming covalent bonds: Atoms can share electrons with other atoms to create a stable, shared outer shell. This is how molecules are formed.

3. Forming ionic bonds: Atoms can transfer electrons to other atoms, resulting in the formation of oppositely charged ions that attract each other. This electrostatic attraction is called an ionic bond.

Let me know if you'd like more detail on any of these methods!