How to Solve a Rubik’s Cube

Step-by-Step Beginner’s Method

This method, often called the “layer-by-layer” method, breaks down the solution into manageable steps.

1. Solve the White Cross
   • Hold the cube with the white center on the top (U) face.
   • Find the white/red, white/blue, white/orange, and white/green edge pieces.
   • Position them around the white center to form a cross, making sure the side colors match their respective centers.
2. Solve the White Corners
   • Locate the white corner pieces (e.g., white/red/blue).
   • Position them in the bottom layer below their intended spot and use the algorithm: R’ D’ R D (repeat as needed) to insert them into the top layer correctly.
3. Solve the Middle Layer
   • Hold the white face on the bottom now.
   • Find an edge piece in the top layer that doesn’t have yellow on it.
   • Align it with its center color and use one of two algorithms to insert it into the middle layer:
     – To move it left: U’ L’ U L U F U’ F’
     – To move it right: U R U’ R’ U’ F’ U F
4. Solve the Yellow Cross
   • On the top (yellow) face, you will see a dot, an L-shape, or a line.
   • Perform the algorithm: F R U R’ U’ F’ until a yellow cross is formed on top. You may need to do this 1-3 times depending on the starting pattern.
5. Orient the Yellow Corners
   • The goal is to get all yellow stickers on the top face, but the corners don’t need to be in the right place yet.
   • Hold a yellow corner that is NOT on the top face in the front-right-top position.
   • Perform the algorithm: R U R’ U R U2 R’ until that corner has yellow on top. Rotate the top layer to position another unsolved corner and repeat. This step may take a few cycles.
6. Position the Yellow Corners
   • Find a corner that is in the correct position (the colors match the centers below it, even if it’s twisted).
   • Hold this corner on the front-right.
   • Perform the algorithm: U R U’ L’ U R’ U’ L to cycle the other three corners. You may need to do this 1-3 times.
7. Position the Yellow Edges
   • If one edge is already correct, hold it on the back face.
   • Perform the algorithm: F2 U L R’ F2 L’ R U F2 to cycle the remaining three edges clockwise. If no edge is correct, do the algorithm once from any orientation to get one correct edge, then repeat.

Tips for Success

• Practice the Algorithms: Muscle memory is key. Repeat each algorithm until you can do it without looking.
• Learn Notation: Understand what F (Front), R (Right), U (Up), etc., mean, along with an apostrophe (‘) for counter-clockwise turns.
• Be Patient: Your first solve will take time. Don’t get discouraged.
• Use a Good Cube: A smooth-turning cube makes learning much easier.