The structure of the song is as follows:
* Introduction (0:00-0:35)
* The song begins with a sustained guitar chord, played on a six-string electric guitar.
* The chord is gradually joined by other instruments, including drums, bass guitar, and acoustic guitar.
* The volume and intensity of the music gradually builds.
* Verse 1 (0:35-1:10)
* The verse begins with Plant singing the lyrics, "There's a lady who's sure all that glitters is gold."
* The music continues to build in intensity.
* Chorus (1:10-1:35)
* The chorus begins with Plant singing the lyrics, "And she's buying a stairway to heaven."
* The chorus is repeated three times.
* Verse 2 (1:35-2:15)
* The second verse begins with Plant singing the lyrics, "When she gets there she knows if the stores are all closed."
* The music continues to build in intensity.
* Chorus (2:15-2:45)
* The chorus is repeated three times.
* Instrumental break (2:45-3:35)
* The instrumental break features a guitar solo by Page.
* The solo is accompanied by drums, bass guitar, and acoustic guitar.
* Verse 3 (3:35-4:15)
* The third verse begins with Plant singing the lyrics, "Yes, there are two paths you can go by, but in the long run."
* The music continues to build in intensity.
* Chorus (4:15-4:45)
* The chorus is repeated three times.
* Outro (4:45-5:32)
* The song ends with a sustained guitar chord, similar to the introduction.
* The chord gradually fades out.