How do I learn when to use each case and not confuse them in speech or writing?

The case system in Russian can be quite daunting, especially because it is a very different structure to what we use in English. Memorizing each individual ending can take a long time and a lot of practice, and doesn't necessarily result in a good understanding of when different cases should be used. Instead, try thinking of some example phrases for the use of each case. Learn the English equivalent of what each case usually expresses, and then learn the examples.

For example, the prepositional case generally expresses 'in' or 'about': Example phrase: I live in the city / я живу в городе (ya jivu v gorodye) This phrase provides an example for both the endings that may be used, and a context it may be used in. Example phrase: I think about the difficult questions / Я думаю о трудных вопросах (ya dumayu o trudnikh voprosakh) In these examples, we are shown situations in which the cases may be used, and a few example endings, so we can see when each might be used and how they are different.

The next step is to learn the prepositions and endings for each case. Although practice is needed to learn the endings, through having already learned some example sentences, you will begin with a better understanding of the differences of each case, you will already know a few example endings, and will be provided with a pattern to follow during speaking or writing to help you decline each word without having to guess. Also, through having learnt the examples, it becomes easier to associate the different endings with their actual meaning and therefore not confuse them.