Where and how to learn the Cyrillic Alphabet

If you are staring to learn Russian on your own or want to prepare yourself before taking the 1st lesson, it is important to start with the Alphabet. Don't forget about the cursive alphabet too.

WHY START WITH LETTERS?

Most of the books, websites and programs for learning Russian start to use Russian letters right away without transcriptions assuming that you are already acquainted with the letters.

Here you can find some sources for practicing on your own. If you are patient enough, in a week you could surprise your friends with your ability to read in Russian and write some simple words.

STEP 1: GET AQUATINTED 

The Alphabet with pictures and recorded sound of the letter and the word that starts with this letter.
http://learnrussian.rt.com/alphabet/

STEP 2: PRACTICE EVERY DAY

Install an Memrise App to your smartphone or iPad and practice every time you have 5-10 min of free time. You can also use the website on your computer. There are various courses with letters to choose from and it is completely free of charge.
http://www.memrise.com

STEP 3: PRACTICE WRITING IN CURSIVE

This website has the letters that you know already and the cursive. In addition you can find examples of various words written in cursive so that you could see the connections between letters.

http://www.russianforeveryone.com/RufeA/Lessons/Introduction/Alphabet/Alphabet.htm

STEP 4: ONCE COMFORTABLE, GET INTO THE DETAILS

If you would like to have more detailed explanation, have a look at WikiHow article http://www.wikihow.com/Read-Russian

STEP 5: BE PATIENT AND ASK FOR HELP

In order to master the pronunciation and speak like a native you may need a little assistance from a language partner or a tutor. A classic course about letters, sounds and pronunciation usually takes about 10 lessons. It may take less if you have practiced on your own before that. This is an unavoidable step if your aim to speak with a minimal accent possible or without it.