What tricks to use to differentiate between Ionic and Covalent bonds

first of all an ionic bonds is the electrostatic force of attraction between opposite ions and and covalent bonds is the bond between different elements mostly non metals or the sharing of electrons between elements which are mostly non metals.

Explanation:  metals and non metals react to form ionic compounds

and non metals react to form covalent bonds

HOW TO DIFFERENTIATE

ionic solids the particles are charged and the forces between them are strong

covalent solids the particles are not charged and the forces between them are weak

now i would differentiate using their  properties

ionic bonds  / compounds

have high melting point

have low melting point

They are soluble in water

and they conduct electricity even when melted or dissolved in water

covalent bonds /compounds

they have low melting point

they have low melting point

They are insoluble

they do not conduct electricity

HOPE THIS HELPS!!!

pure substance: iron,copper

impure substance: water,charcoal