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1. Intention should be in the heart. That is the real place of intention. Intend that you are praying to Allah Almighty and only for His sake. Focus on the nature of the prayer you are making. Is it an obligatory prayer or a supererogatory one? Are you praying Fajr, Zuhr, `Asr, Maghrib or `Isha? and any other prayer? How many prayer units or rak`hs you intend to pray and whether you are praying alone or with the congregation? The clearer you are in your intention, the better will be your attention and concentration.

2. Perform your prayers on their appointed times without delay.

3. Perform your prayer according to the sunnah of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him).

4. Stand upright. Keep your eyes open and look at the place of your prostration or sujud while your are standing. In bowing or ruku` look at your feet, in sujud towards the floor and in the sitting position at your lap or your hands.

5. Do not play with your hands and do not rub your face, body or clothes. Be as quiet and still as possible.

6. Think yourself in the Presence of Allah and Allah is facing you.

7. Do not rush your prayers (i.e., to perform your prayers in haste). Rather, you ought to perform every part of your prayer with care and in a relaxed manner.

8. Recite the words carefully. Pay attention to what you are saying. You should learn the meaning of various supplications or du`a?s in prayer.

9. Implore Allah earnestly to help you in your prayers and to accept your prayers. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) used to say, "Allahumma a`inni `ala dhikrika wa shukrika wa husn `ibadatika (O Allah help me in remembering You, in thanking You and in worshipping You in the best way).?

10. Finally, remember that haram food, haram income and sins take away the joy and concentration in prayer. Keep yourself pure and clean as much as you can.?

May Allah guide you to the Straight Path, and direct you to that which pleases Him, Amen.

Allah Almighty knows best.