What is the correct method for placing the hands or the knees when prostrating, given the difference of opinion and what is stated in the book "The Prophet's Prayer Described"?

Scholars have differed on the manner of descending for prostration (sujud): whether it is on the hands or on the knees.

Abu Hanifa, Al-Shafi'i, and Ahmad—in one of two narrations from him—are of the opinion that the knees should precede the hands. They based their view on the hadith of Wa'il ibn Hujr, which some scholars deemed weak while others authenticated it. Among those who chose this opinion are Ibn Taymiyyah, Ibn al-Qayyim, Ibn Baz, and Al-Uthaymeen.

Malik, Al-Awza'i, and the Hadith scholars are of the opinion that the hands should precede the knees. They based their view on the hadith of Abu Hurayrah: "When one of you prostrates, he should not kneel down like a camel, but should place his hands before his knees." This hadith was authenticated by Sheikh Al-Albani and others.

According to Sheikh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, prayer is valid with both methods by scholarly consensus, and the disagreement is regarding which is more preferable. A student of knowledge should act upon what he finds preponderant, and a common person should follow whoever he trusts in their knowledge.