Niat before Fasting
Prophet Muhammad s.a.w said: "There is no fast for the person who did not intend to fast from the night before." (Abu Daud). It is imperative to determine the intention every night prior to the day of fast. The intention may even be made just a moment before Fajr. Below is a quick recap of the recitation of the niat; in two forms, complete or short. Remember this intention is "in your heart", NOT verbalize.
Optimal complete intention (Niat)
Na-wai-tu saw-ma gha-din an-ada-i far-dhi ra-ma-dhana ha-dzi-his sa-na-ti lil-lahi-ta-a'la
I, therefore, intend to observe fast tomorrow to fulfill the obligatory Ramadhan fast this year in obedience to Allah swt.
Short daily Niyat before Fasting
وَبِصَوْمِ غَدٍ نَّوَيْتَ مِنْ شَهْرِ رَمَضَانَ
Wa bisawmi ghadinn nawaitu min shahri ramadan
I, therefore, intend to observe fast during the month of Ramadhan
