I keep using por because it is closer to "for" in English, but most of the time the correct word is actually "para". Can anyone explain if there is a rule about this, when should we use "por" and "para"?

Great question Mega! The distinction between "por" and "para" can be challenging, because both can translate to "for" in English.

Here are the most common uses of "POR":

Cause: When explaining the reason behind an action. Example: "Lo hice por vos" (I did it for you.)

Exchange : In the context of trading or replacing one thing for another. Example: "Te doy diez dólares por el libro" (I'll give you ten dollars for the book)

Duration: To indicate the duration of an action. Example: "Estudié por tres horas" (I studied for three hours.)

Through or By a Place: Indicating movement through or by a place. Example: "Caminamos por el parque." (We walked through the park)

Manner: Referring to the manner or means by which something is done. Example: "Hablamos por teléfono." (We spoke on the phone.)

Here are the most common uses of "PARA":

Goal: Indicating the intended purpose of an action or object. For example: "Estudio para ser abogado" (I study to become a lawyer)

Recipient: Indicating the recipient of an action or object. Ex: "Este regalo es para ti" (This gift is for you)

Destination: Referring to the destination of a movement. Ex: "Salimos para Madrid mañana." (We leave for Madrid tomorrow) Note: you can also say "a" instead of "para".

Specific Time: Indicating a deadline or specific time in the future. Example: "Necesito terminar esto para el domingo" (I need to finish this by Sunday)

Now, here you have a tip for you to easily remember the difference:

Think of "por" as the motive and "para" as an objective: "Por" often explains why something is done, and "para" is used to indicate the intended outcome.

And that´s about it! As we talked before, the difference is very small, but it is a very important thing when speaking spanish. So, practice makes perfect! Good luck!

If you have any questions or something wasn't very clear, don't hesitate to ask 😃