How to do a good confession?

1. When the priest pulls the slide, make the Sign of Cross and say, "Bless me Father, for I have sinned".
2. Tell how long it is since your last confession, without waiting to be asked.
3. Tell your sins, and the number of times that you committed them, and do this without pausing or delay.
4. When you have told the last sin, say immediately, "For all these and the sins of my past life, especially those I cannot now remember, I humbly ask pardon of God and Penance and absolution of you, Father".
5. Then, listen attentively and humbly to the confessor and note the penance he imposes. Whilst he gives you absolution, say an Act of Contrition.

Act of Contrition:

O my God,
I am so sorry for having offended you,
and I detest all my sins because they offend You,
my God, who are all good and deserving of all my love; I firmly resolve, with the help of Your grace,
to sin mo more and to avoid the near occasions of sin.
Amen.