Speed Cubing
Solve the Rubik's Cube as fast as possible. What seems like an impossible puzzle can be solved in under a minute once you learn the beginner's method—and with practice, under 30 seconds!
What You'll Do
What You Need
Required
- ●Speed cube (like MoYu or QiYi)($8-20)
- ●Algorithm cheat sheet(Free printable)
Optional
- ○Timer (app or physical)(Free app)
How To Do It
- 1
Learn cube notation
Understand R, L, U, D, F, B moves and their reverses (R', L', etc.).
- 2
Solve the white cross
Get the white edge pieces aligned correctly on the white center.
- 3
Complete the first layer
Insert the white corner pieces correctly.
- 4
Solve the second layer
Use the edge-insertion to complete the middle layer.
- 5
Solve the last layer
Orient then permute the last layer pieces—this is where s help most.
Tips
- →Common mistake: trying to memorize all s at once. Learn one step completely before moving to the next.
- →Practice s slowly until they become muscle memory
- →Look ahead—while executing one step, plan the next
- → speed up your moves significantly
Communities
Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is speed cubing hard to learn?
Learning to solve the cube takes a few hours with a tutorial. Getting fast takes practice, but sub-1-minute solves are achievable within weeks for most people.
What cube should I buy?
Start with a budget ($5-15) like the QiYi Warrior or MoYu RS3M. Avoid the original Rubik's brand - it's stiff and slow.
Do I need to memorize algorithms?
Yes, but start with just 7-8 for the beginner method. You can solve any scramble with these. Advanced methods use 50+ s but aren't needed to have fun.
Why does my cube lock up or catch?
Budget cubes or the original Rubik's brand are stiff. A modern ($8-15) turns smoothly and corner-cuts, making solving much easier and more enjoyable.