Learn how to read the Cyrillic alphabet. The first step to studying the Russian language is learning how to read and understand the alphabet, which is quite different than the Latin alphabet that the English language uses. Check the Resources section to view the Russian letters along with their Latin alphabet equivalents.
Develop a basic vocabulary and grammar base. Use free online websites to build your Russian vocabulary and learn fundamental grammar rules. Other economical resources for improving vocabulary and grammar include used textbooks, vocabulary flashcards, grammar workbooks, bilingual dictionaries and phrasebooks.
Buy a label maker and label items in your home with the corresponding Russian words, so that you can learn new vocabulary more naturally as you go about your normal daily activities.
Increase your exposure to Russian media and literature. Download or purchase CDs containing popular Russian songs. Visit the international section of your local movie rental shop to find films in Russian. Peruse the foreign language section of your library or bookstore to find Russian novels.
Invest in comprehensive CD or DVD-based language learning software such as Rosetta Stone. In addition to books and flashcards, an audio component is crucial to learning how to speak and understand Russian. Choose a program that allows you to listen to dialogue, as well as practice speaking the language yourself.
Make friends with other Russian speakers. You can meet native speakers in online chat rooms or--better yet--in your own community. Several cities have organized Russian language meet-up groups for students of the language to mingle with native speakers in a casual environment. Check out the Resources section to find a group near you.