How How To Solve a Rubik’s Cube

The Rubik’s Cube is a 3D combination puzzle that was invented by Hungarian sculptor and professor of architecture, Erno Rubik, in 1974. Since then, it has become one of the most popular and challenging puzzles of all time. While it may seem impossible to solve at first, with the right techniques and practice, anyone can learn how to solve a Rubik’s Cube. In this step-by-step guide, we will take you through the process of solving a Rubik’s Cube and provide you with all the information you need to become a master solver.

Step 1: Understand the Basics

Before we dive into solving the Rubik’s Cube, it’s important to understand the basics. The Rubik’s Cube consists of six faces, each with a different color (red, blue, green, yellow, orange, and white). Each face has nine small squares, called “cubies”, for a total of 54 cubies on the entire cube. The cube has three layers, and each layer can be turned independently of the others.

Step 2: Know the Notation

In order to solve the Rubik’s Cube, you need to understand the notation. The notation is a set of symbols that represent the different moves you can make on the cube. Here are the most common notations you will need to know:

• U – Turn the Upper layer clockwise
• U’ – Turn the Upper layer counterclockwise
• D – Turn the Down layer clockwise
• D’ – Turn the Down layer counterclockwise
• R – Turn the Right layer clockwise
• R’ – Turn the Right layer counterclockwise
• L – Turn the Left layer clockwise
• L’ – Turn the Left layer counterclockwise
• F – Turn the Front layer clockwise
• F’ – Turn the Front layer counterclockwise
• B – Turn the Back layer clockwise
• B’ – Turn the Back layer counterclockwise

Step 3: Solve the First Layer

The first step to solving the Rubik’s Cube is to solve the first layer. Start by choosing a color, and then find all the cubies with that color on one side of the cube. Then, arrange those cubies so that they form a solid square on that side of the cube. This is called creating a “cross”.

Next, you need to solve the corners of the first layer. Look for a corner cubie that has the same color as the center cubie on the side of the cube you just solved. Rotate the cube until the corner cubie is in the bottom layer, directly under where it needs to go. Then, use the following algorithm:

• R’ D’ R D

Repeat this algorithm until the corner cubie is in the correct position. Then, use the same algorithm to orient the corner cubie so that the colors match up.

Repeat this process for the remaining corners of the first layer until the entire layer is solved.

Step 4: Solve the Second Layer

Once the first layer is solved, you can move on to the second layer. Look for a corner cubie on the top layer that has a different color on each side. Rotate the cube so that the corner cubie is directly above where it needs to go in the second layer. Then, use the following algorithm:

• U R U’ R’ U’ F’ U F

Repeat this algorithm until the corner cubie is in the correct position.

Next, you need to solve the edge cubies of the second layer. Look for an edge cubie on the top layer that has a different color on each side. Rotate the cube so that the edge cubie is directly above where it needs to go in the second layer. Then, use the following algorithm:

• U R U’ R’ U’ F’ U F

Repeat this algorithm until the edge cubie is in the correct position.

Repeat these steps for the remaining corner and edge cubies in the second layer until the entire layer is solved.

Step 5: Solve the Final Layer

The final layer of the Rubik’s Cube can be the most challenging, but with the right algorithms, it can be solved with ease. There are two main methods for solving the final layer: the Fridrich method and the beginner’s method. We will focus on the beginner’s method in this guide.

First, you need to orient the edges of the final layer. Look for an edge cubie on the top layer that has the same color as the center cubie on the same side of the cube. Rotate the cube so that the edge cubie is in the back of the top layer, and use the following algorithm:

• F U R U’ R’ F’

Repeat this algorithm until the edge cubie is oriented correctly. If there are no edge cubies on the top layer that match the center cubie, use the following algorithm to bring one up:

• F R U R’ U’ F’

Next, you need to permute the edges of the final layer. Look for two edge cubies on the top layer that need to be swapped. Rotate the cube so that the two edge cubies are on the back and right sides of the top layer, and use the following algorithm:

• R U R’ U’ R’ F R2 U’ R’ U’ R U R’ F’

Repeat this algorithm until all the edges are in the correct position.

Finally, you need to orient the corners of the final layer. Look for a corner cubie on the top layer that is not oriented correctly. Rotate the cube so that the corner cubie is in the top right corner of the front face, and use the following algorithm:

• R’ D’ R D

Repeat this algorithm until all the corner cubies are oriented correctly.

Step 6: Finishing Up

Congratulations! You have now solved the Rubik’s Cube. But before you put it down, there are a few things you can do to improve your solving skills:

• Practice, practice, practice! The more you practice, the faster and more efficient you will become.
• Learn new algorithms. There are many different algorithms that can be used to solve the Rubik’s Cube, and learning new ones can help you solve the cube faster and more efficiently.
• Join a community. There are many online communities dedicated to solving the Rubik’s Cube, and joining one can help you learn new techniques and connect with other cubers.

FAQs:

How long does it take to solve a Rubik’s Cube?

The time it takes to solve a Rubik’s Cube can vary greatly depending on the person’s skill level. A beginner may take several minutes or even hours to solve the cube, while an advanced solver can solve it in under 10 seconds.

Is it possible to solve a Rubik’s Cube without algorithms?

While it may be possible to solve a Rubik’s Cube without using algorithms, it would be very difficult and time-consuming. Algorithms are essential for solving the cube efficiently.

How many algorithms do I need to know to solve a Rubik’s Cube?

To solve the Rubik’s Cube using the beginner’s method, you need to know around 7-8 algorithms. The Fridrich method, which is more advanced, requires knowledge of over 50 algorithms.

What is the fastest time for solving a Rubik’s Cube?

The current world record for solving a Rubik’s Cube is 3.47 seconds, set by Yusheng Du of China in November 2018.

Can I solve a Rubik’s Cube using only one hand?

Yes, it is possible to solve a Rubik’s Cube using only one hand. There are even competitions for one-handed solving, and the world record for one-handed solving is currently 6.82 seconds, set by Max Park of the United States in November 2021.

What is the easiest method for solving a Rubik’s Cube?

The beginner’s method is considered to be the easiest method for solving a Rubik’s Cube. It uses simple algorithms and can be learned quickly by beginners.

Can I solve a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded?

Yes, it is possible to solve a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded. This is known as blindfolded solving and requires a lot of practice and memorization of algorithms.

Are all Rubik’s Cubes the same?

No, there are many different types of Rubik’s Cubes, including different sizes, shapes, and even different numbers of layers. Some Rubik’s Cubes also have different mechanisms or features that can make them easier or more difficult to solve.

Can I solve a Rubik’s Cube using a smartphone app?

Yes, there are many smartphone apps available that can help you solve a Rubik’s Cube. These apps use algorithms and step-by-step instructions to guide you through the solving process.

Is it possible to solve a Rubik’s Cube using a computer program?

Yes, there are computer programs that can solve a Rubik’s Cube. These programs use complex algorithms and techniques to find the optimal solution for the cube, and can solve the cube in a matter of seconds.