Follow this checklist for finding out whether a mole is more likely to be normal or a melanoma:

Asymmetrical - the mole is not symmetrical, one half is different in shape from the other.

Border - the border is ragged or notched. Most normal moles have regular borders

Colors - while most normal moles have just one color, melanomas often have two or more.

Diameter - the diameter of a melanoma is greater than most moles (1/4 inch or 6mm)

Elevation - when touched the melanoma will feel slightly raised above the skin