Determine the basic structure for the song. The central ingredients of a song include the verses and the chorus. Other common ingredients may include a bridge (a connecting or transitional passage in the middle of the song), an introduction and ending. The chorus may follow after each verse or after every two verses. The bridge may occur only once in the song towards the middle. If you are performing a well-known song, use the arrangement to create your own unique interpretation of the song. Develop your own introduction, change the tempo of the song, slightly alter the vocal melody, or write a bridge for the song if it doesn't have one.
Decide upon the instrumentation that works best for the song. A typical band may include guitar, bass guitar, keyboards and drums but avoid using the instruments the same way all the time. In arranging the song you may want to use an acoustic guitar rather than an electric guitar or an organ instead of a piano, and so forth. A slightly distorted guitar sound may work better for one part of the song, while a clean guitar tone works better for another part of the song. If the song is being arranged for a recording session it may be possible to bring in additional instruments such as horns, strings and backing vocals.
Construct a dynamic structure for the song. Dynamics make the song more interesting. Take advantage of the different instruments and the different parts of the song to develop an interesting arrangement. For example, sing the first two verses with only guitar or keyboard accompaniment. Adding the bass and drums after the second verse can make a strong impact. Finally, changing the key of the song for the last two verses has a strong effect on the listener as well. A typical key change is to move one step higher, for example, from C major to D major.
Record the song and listen to it. Don't be afraid to experiment with the arrangement. Make changes and find the arrangement that works the best.