How do I reconcile what I incline towards after seeking guidance (Istikharah) with what my family deems better for me, especially given the unclear outcome of the Istikharah? And do sins have a bearing on the lack of clarity in Istikharah? What is the specific supplication for the Istikharah prayer when choosing between science and mathematics specializations? When should I pray it, what should I do afterwards, and how do I know its result, especially since the essence of Istikharah prayer is striving, not inclinations or dreams?

Sins are considered impediments to the acceptance of Du'a (supplication), and Istikhara is a form of Du'a. Ibn al-Qayyim mentioned that the effect of Du'a might be withheld due to its weakness, the weakness of the supplicant's heart, or the presence of impediments such as consuming unlawful earnings or the rust of sins. Allah does not accept the Du'a from a heedless, inattentive heart, and He only accepts what is pure.

Regarding the Istikhara prayer for choosing a specialization between science (general) and mathematics (science), one can perform Istikhara for each specialization separately, or combine them in a single Du'a, saying: "O Allah, if the science specialization or the mathematics specialization is good for me, then make it easy for me."

The Istikhara prayer is recommended at any time, except during the prohibited times for prayer. After the prayer, one proceeds with the matter, and whatever becomes easy, whether it is this or something else, that is the good, and the matter does not depend on a dream or a feeling of contentment.