Preparing for Ramadan: a practical checklist
Preparing well for Ramadan doesn't have to be complicated. A few achievable choices before the month begins can help you keep more calm and attention for worship, the Quran and your family during Ramadan.
Use this checklist as a starting point and adapt it to your own situation.
1. Choose a few realistic goals
Don't make a list of twenty habits that you want to carry out perfectly from day one. Instead, choose two or three concrete goals, such as reading the Quran every day, learning a particular dua or making time more deliberately for sadaqah.
A small goal that you keep up is more useful than an ambitious schedule that falls away after a few days.
2. Make an achievable Quran plan
Decide in advance when it is easiest for you to read: after Fajr, during a break or in the evening. Choose an amount that fits your work, family and reading level.
Still need a suitable edition? Browse our Quran collection, including English editions such as The Clear Quran with Arabic Text.
3. Check prayer and fasting times
Before the month starts, choose one reliable local calendar, mosque or app. That way you avoid comparing different times every day.
4. Think practically about food
Ramadan is not about food, but meals do require preparation. Make a simple weekly plan, keep a few basic products in stock and prevent every iftar from becoming a big project.
Calm preparation makes it easier to give attention to your other goals.
5. Prepare the family
Talk with children about what changes in the daily rhythm. Give them their own achievable goal, such as a good deed, reading a short story or helping with iftar.
A Ramadan activity book can help give activities and reflection a regular place.
6. Plan good deeds
Good deeds don't have to arise only spontaneously. Think in advance about who you want to help, what sadaqah you want to give and which small deeds you want to do more often.
Short, daily supplications can also become part of your routine; Fortress of the Muslim collects duas from the Quran and Sunnah for everyday situations.
7. Make room in your schedule
See which appointments or obligations you can already complete before Ramadan. Less unnecessary pressure in your diary leaves more room for rest, family and worship.
8. Don't expect a perfect month
Energy and circumstances differ from day to day. A missed plan does not mean the rest of the month has failed. Simply pick up your routine again at the next opportunity.
Preparing further
Have a look at our Ramadan books, activity books and calendars or the full range of Ramadan products.
Above all, start in good time and keep it simple. That way, preparation becomes a support for the month rather than an extra task in itself.
Further reading: looking for deeper study? See our guide to Ramadan books. To check times in practice, also read how to choose a reliable source for prayer times.