In preparing for the night of the Seder, it is important for the head of the family to review the haggada and to familiarize himself with its contents, so that he will be able to navigate the Seder in the best possible way. Prior study of the text of the haggada also enables one to see the coherent and logical progression in its various sections, which from a cursory glance might appear like a disorganized collection of verses and descriptions.

Immediately after the evening prayer service, one should hurry to get the Seder started, in order that the participants, especially the children, who are a central focus of the Seder, will remain awake and alert until the end of the evening.