How to Learn Russian

Congratulations on your decision to learn Russian! It is a truly fascinating language and it will open up so many new opportunities in your life, not least of which is the chance to connect with your Russian friends on a much deeper level.

Learning a new language is an exciting challenge, but it's also a bit daunting. For most people, the common initial thoughts are: Where do I start...? It looks really hard...! Which books do I need...? Isn't there an easier way...!

Well, fear not. Yes, learning Russian is a challenge, but there are a number of things you can do to make your experience easier, faster AND more enjoyable! We have outlined for you here the best way to get started learning Russian, and some key steps to take along the way.

Overview - How to Learn Russian

Step 1 - Learn some basic words

Step 2 - Learn how to read the Cyrillic Alphabet

Step 3 - Boost your vocabulary

Step 4 - Learn the rules of Russian Grammar

Step 5 - Put it into practice

Step 6 - Expand your horizons

Resources to Assist You

Russian Phrase Book for Lovers

Russian Audio Course for MEN

Russian Audio Course for WOMEN

Russian Grammar Guide

Transliteration Guide - how to write Russian using latin characters.

Step 1 - Learn a few Common Russian Words

Ok, before we even think about getting technical, the first thing you should do is learn the basics. Just a few words to get you going. The quickest way to start speaking Russian, is to do just that - speak in Russian! Try these easy tutorials to start...

> List of common Russian words

> How to say Hello in Russian


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Step 2 - The Russian Alphabet

Ok, great. So, you're already speaking in Russian! Well done!

Now, the next step is to learn The Russian Alphabet. Once you're familiar with the cyrillic letters, you will be able to read in Russian - even if you can't understand what it all means yet!

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Step 3 - Learn More Words!

There's a few ways to do this, and you're best to use a combination of them.

Russian/English Dictionary - Definitely pick up a copy of a Russian/English Dictionary. You will refer to it more than anything else!

Russian Language Software - There are some great CD-Rom style courses available, where you will learn a stack of words very quickly. Some use memory tricks to help you learn Russian faster. It's a great way to build your vocabulary.

CD/MP3 - Hearing a native speaker repeat the words is a brilliant way to help you learn Russian. Not only will it help you to remember the words, but it will also help you learn how to say the words correctly. This is a great way to learn for those of us who are very busy. Put the CD on in your car, while you're driving, or listen on your ipod while you're out walking.

** If you're learning Russian specifically for relationships, this is where you'll want to get your hands on our specially designed audio courses for relationships...

Choose your course:

Russian Course for MEN | for WOMEN

Other useful references to help you here include:

> List of everyday Russian Phrases

> List of typical Russian Sayings

> Special guide to Russian phrases for lovers!


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Step 4 - Learn the Rules

Ok, now it's time to put some structure into place. There's no need for any grammar until you get to this stage. So, if you're just starting out, simply follow the 3 steps above. Once you feel like you know a few useful words, and you can comfortably read the Russian letters, then you're ready to dig deeper.

Start with our great guide to Russian Grammar. We walk you through the basics of Russian Grammar which will be all you need for a beginner to intermediate level.

If you're not great at learning on your own, then sign up for a course. Your local university or language college should have a Russian course that you can attend. This is another great way to get started, and has the added benefit that you have other people to speak with.

A tutor is also a great help at this point. Ideally, you want to learn from a native Russian speaker, so you can learn the correct way to pronounce words. It's a good habit to begin at this early stage so you always say the words the right way.

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Step 5 - Put it into Practice

You've probably heard the saying, 'Practice makes perfect!' Well, it certainly applies to learning Russian. The key is to do a small amount as often as possible. Once a week at least! Once a day would be fantastic, but let's be honest... We don't all have the time (or patience!) to study every day. So plan for 2-3 times a week, even if it's only for 30-40 minutes each session. The important thing is to keep practising regularly.

If you're learning Russian to help you with your relationship with a Russian woman (or man), then you've got no excuse for not practising!

Practising talking in Russian with your Russian friends is the most important step in learning Russian! The more you practise, the faster you will pick it up. So, talk with your friends, write letters to them, and try to interpret their letters in Russian as well. Everything will help.

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Step 6 - Expand Your Horizons

The opportunities for building your knowledge of the Russian language are endless. Learn Russian by watching Russian cartoons... Russian movies... Reading Russian books... Or join a local Russian Club...

Best of all... Visit your Russian friends in their own country! This will help enormously. When you hear Russian being spoken all around you, you will be amazed at how quickly you progress.

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