I see there are two words for "try" (versuchen or probieren). Is there a rule as to when each is used or can I use either in any given situation? For example, "Soll ich versuchen" can this also be "Soll ich probieren"?

Hi there, there is a slight difference in meaning. There will be many situations where you could use both without changing the meaning of the sentence, but there are a few situations where one is more suitable than the other. Möchtest du ein Stückchen von dem Käse probieren? - Woudl you like to try a little piece of this cheese? Ich versuche meine Freunde mindestens einmal in der Woche zu sehen - I try to see my friends at least once a week. You will find that with time it comes naturally to you which one to use and trust me no one will be offended if you don't get it right. All the best Paul