The structure of a PCT patent application specification includes seven parts, excluding the abstract and the claims. The parts include:

1. A title
2. A description of the technical field to which the invention relates
3. A description of the background art
4. A disclosure of the invention, as claimed, the technical problem, and its solution
5. A description of the figures in the drawings
6. A description of the best mode contemplated by the applicant for carrying out the invention claimed
7. A description or nature of the invention, the way in which the invention is capable of exploitation in industry, and the way in which it can be made and used

A PCT patent application will typically include a more complex and varied set of claims to provide a basis for the different claim formats of each designated country.

The third step in the PCT patent-prosecution process is the issuance of an international search report. This will usually occur within sixteen months of the filing of the initial application in the home country.

The fourth step in the PCT patent-prosecution process is the publication of the application, which usually occurs within 18 months of the filing of the initial application in the home country.

The fifth step in the PCT patent-prosecution process is the international examination. An applicant must file a demand for an international examination within 22 months of the filing of the initial application in the home country. The filing of a demand is optional. International examination will usually be complete within 28 months of the filing of the initial application in the home country.

The sixth step in the PCT patent prosecution process is the filing in each individual home country or regional patent office. Most countries or regional patent offices require an applicant to file within 30 months of the filing of the initial application in the home country. Some countries have earlier deadlines, which may be as early as 20 months from the filing of the initial application in the home country.