1. stanza structure: a sonnet comprises of 14 lines, typically written in iambic pentameter (each line consists of ten syllables, with a alternating pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables).
2. Rhyme scheme: Shakespearean sonnets follow a specific rhyme scheme. Commonly, the rhyme scheme is ABAB CDCD EFEF GG
3. division: Shakespeare's sonnets can be divided into two parts: the octave (the first eight lines) and the sestet (the remaining six lines).
4. octave (lines 1-8): presents the main idea, theme or problem of the sonnet. It often ends with a "turn" or volta where the tone shifts or there is a revelation, twist, or new perspective.
5. sestet (lines 9-14): This part offers a concluding thought, solution, or resolution to the question or idea posed in the octave. The rhyming couplets (GG) at the end of the sonnet provide a sense of closure and emphasize the final message.
While Shakespeare did innovate and use variations of this structure, the vast majority of his sonnets follow the English or Shakespearean sonnet form as outlined above.