The Rebbe's guidance on learning halachah — the practical laws of daily Jewish life:
For everyone, every day. Knowing practical halachah is vital for every Jew's daily life, not only for scholars (IK 3091, 3670, 5878). In our generation it can no longer be taken for granted that halachah is absorbed at home or in shul, so it must be actively taught and learned (IK 5894). Learn the laws that apply to your own situation — for example, the laws of Shabbos for someone who travels (IK 4339), or the laws of tefillin for one who wears them (IK 8516, 10827). Living each day according to the Shulchan Aruch draws down blessing (IK 10828).
Practical first. Master the laws needed for daily living before delving into their sources (IK 3199), and start with the laws that come up most often (IK 3106). Use accessible, abridged works so that everyone can apply what they learn (IK 2546).
In every class and school. Every public Torah class should include practical halachah (IK 2458, 2546); a shul should have a regular halachah class using the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch (IK 4296), and teach weekday laws such as berachos and tefillin, not only the laws of Shabbos (IK 4364). Every educational institution should teach practical halachah (IK 3083, 3231), yeshivos should study it daily (IK 3778), and graduates should be sure to know it (IK 6143). Teach students the laws of the coming holidays (IK 3120), and use tests and prizes to make sure the laws are mastered (IK 3158). Teaching practical halachah publicly draws extra blessing (IK 2031, 4233).
A balanced schedule combines in-depth learning, review, practical halachah and daily Chassidus (IK 5001, 5648).
Actual rulings. Learning halachah is not the same as ruling on a real case (IK 6144). Practical halachic questions should be brought to a qualified local Rav (IK 8939, 9193, 10710).
See also: Torah study – Fixed times and the daily shiurim; Torah study – Women's Torah study.