How do I perform the night vigil (Qiyam al-Layl) in a way that pleases Allah and brings me closer to Him, and what did the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, do during his night so that I may act similarly?

A servant's success in realizing their shortcomings should be a motivation to make up for what has passed. The most virtuous worship is that which is continuous, even if small in quantity, as was the guidance of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him.

The night prayer (Salat al-Layl) is performed in units of two rak'ahs, concluded with a single rak'ah of Witr. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, used to pray eleven rak'ahs. The best time for it is the last part of the night, and one can increase or decrease the number according to their capacity.

Whoever fears that they will not be able to wake up in the last part of the night should pray Witr at the beginning of the night. Whoever hopes to wake up in the last part of the night should pray Witr at its end, because prayer in the last part of the night is witnessed (by angels) and is superior.

The most beloved prayer to Allah is the prayer of David, peace be upon him: he would sleep for half the night, pray for one-third of it, and sleep for one-sixth of it.