Start by launching Settings on your Android phone. In Settings, select "Display." Scroll down the "Display" page and select "Status Bar." You'll customize the status bar (the bar at the top of your phone's screen) so it displays the battery option. On the "Status Bar" page, turn on the "Show Battery Percentage" option.

Perhaps the most recognized and easiest icons to interpret are the battery icons. These include the typical battery status, which might be accompanied by a percentage. A simpler version of this will show only an appropriately filled battery. There is also the battery charging icon, which is displayed when your phone is currently charging.

If you see a battery icon, your phone is powered off and is charging. You can restart right away. If you see a red light, your battery is fully discharged. If the red light is flashing, there isn't enough power to turn on. Charge your phone for at least 30 minutes before restarting.