What pitfalls must we avoid whilst praying?

Really speaking,what can be simpler than prayer? Its spontaneity is, however, taken away at times by the use of excessively complicated methods, which draw too much attention to themselves and not enough to God, whom the soul should seek. Jesus said, "When you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites who love to pray standing in the synagogues and at the street corners in order that they be seen by men. Amen I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you pray, go to your room, and closing your door,pray to your Father in secret; and your Father, who sees in secret, will reward you..." "But in praying, do not multiply words as the gentiles do; for they think that by saying a great deal, they will be heard. So do not be like them; for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. In this manner therefore shall you pray: "Our Father...." (Mt.6:5-13)