Shakespeare uses many predictable patterns in his plays. The hero does not normally make an entrance for a few lines, at least, if not a whole scene. The hero is also virtuous and strong, but he always possesses a character flaw. In the comedy itself, Shakespeare assumes that we know the basic plot, and he jumps right into it with little or no explanation. Foreshadowing and foreboding are put in the play early and can be heard throughout the drama.
All Shakespearean comedies have five acts.
The climax of the play is always during the third act. Shakespearean comedies also contain a wide variety of characters. Shakespeare often introduces a character and then discards him, never to be seen again in the balance of the play. Shakespeare's female leads are usually described as petite, and often they assume male disguises. Often, foul weather parallels the emotional state of the characters.