shahero:

1. If someone else is reciting the Qur’an out loud, we should listen quietly so we can receive mercy. The same applies when the adhaan is being given. 

“So when the Qur’an is recited, then listen to it and pay attention that you may receive mercy.” Qur’an [7:204]

2. Make ablution/wudu. 

The Prophet Muhammad SAW said, “The key to paradise is prayer, and the key to prayer is cleanliness (ablution).” [Tirmidhi]

3. Begin by seeking refuge in Allah from Shaitan and starting in His name.

Say: “audhu billahi min ash-shaytan ir-rajeem” and “bismillah ir rahman ir raheem.”

4. When talking to someone in the middle of reading Qur’an:

a) Close the Qur’an. When you begin to read again, say “audhubillah” and “bismillah.”

b) If what you have spoken is relevant to what you were reading (ex: someone asks you what Surah you’re reading), then begin reading the Qur’an again by saying “bismillah.”

c) One who is reciting may respond to “salaam” and then begin again by saying “audhubillah” and “bismillah.”

5. If you come across an ayah of reward, ask to be among those people.

If you come across an ayah of punishment or torment from Allah, seek refuge and forgiveness.

6. If we pay attention to the recitation and try to understand the meaning, we can truly benefit.

“Indeed in that is a reminder for whoever has a heart or who listens while he is present [in mind].” Qur’an [50:37]

7. One should show due reverence (honor, respect) to the words of Allah.