Step 1: Beginner's Method (Layer by Layer)
The Layer by Layer (LBL) method is the most accessible approach for beginners. It solves the cube one layer at a time from bottom to top, requiring fewer algorithms than advanced methods. Most beginners can learn LBL in 1?? hours and achieve sub-2 minute solves with practice.
- White Cross: Solve four white edge pieces adjacent to the white center to form a cross on the bottom face
- White Corners: Insert the four white corner pieces to complete the bottom (first) layer
- Middle Layer Edges: Insert the four middle-layer edge pieces using a left or right insertion algorithm
- Yellow Cross (OLL Part 1): Orient the yellow edges to form a cross on the top face using the F-R-U-R'-U'-F' algorithm
- Complete Top Face (OLL Part 2): Orient the remaining yellow corners using the Sune algorithm
- Top Layer Permutation (PLL): Permute the top layer pieces into their correct positions using 1?? algorithms
Step 2: Advancing to CFOP (Fridrich Method)
Once you achieve sub-1 minute with LBL, it is time to upgrade to CFOP ??the method used by the vast majority of competitive speedcubers. CFOP (Cross, F2L, OLL, PLL) solves the cube in four steps with significantly fewer total moves than LBL.
- Cross: Solve the four bottom cross edges simultaneously in an intuitive, planned sequence. Advanced solvers plan the Cross during 15-second inspection, aiming for sub-1.5 second Cross execution from any angle.
- F2L (First Two Layers): Pair a corner with its corresponding edge and insert both simultaneously into the correct F2L slot. Learning the 41 standard F2L cases allows efficient intuitive solving without algorithm memorization.
- OLL (57 Cases): Orient all 9 last-layer pieces in one look. Two-look OLL (COLL + EOOLL) uses only 9 algorithms and can take your Ao5 from sub-30 to sub-20. Full OLL (57 algorithms) enables one-look execution and is required for sub-15 second solving.
- PLL (21 Cases): Permute the solved top face pieces into their final positions. All 21 PLL cases must be learned for one-look solving. Common milestone: learning all G-perms, A-perms, and E-perm covers the most frequent competition cases.
Step 3: Roux Method ??A Powerful CFOP Alternative
The Roux method is a block-building approach developed by Gilles Roux that uses fewer total moves than CFOP on average and is the second most popular method among top speedcubers. Roux solves the cube in four main steps and is particularly well-suited for low-rotation-count and one-handed solving.
- First Block (FB): Build a 1x2x3 block on the left side of the cube
- Second Block (SB): Build a mirrored 1x2x3 block on the right side without disturbing the First Block
- CMLL (Corners of the Last Layer): Orient and permute all 4 top-layer corners simultaneously using one of 42 CMLL algorithms
- LSE (Last Six Edges): Solve the remaining 6 edges (4 top layer + UF and UB) intuitively using only M and U moves
Step 4: WCA Competition Guide
When competing at an official WCA competition, understanding the regulations is essential. Here are the key rules:
- Inspection (15 seconds): You have 15 seconds to inspect the scrambled cube before starting. +2 seconds penalty if you start between 15??7 seconds; DNF if you start after 17 seconds.
- Starting the Timer: Place both hands flat on the Stackmat timer pads, lift when ready. The solve starts when hands leave the pads.
- Stopping the Timer: Stop the Stackmat by placing both hands flat on the pads. The cube must not be touching your hands when you stop.
- Judge Calls: +2 penalty for incomplete alignment (any face rotated more than 45簞). DNF for unsolved state, additional external assistance, or starting before inspection timer begins.
Using JrTimer for Structured Practice
JrTimer's built-in session statistics ??Ao5, Ao12, Ao50, Ao100 ??are the industry-standard metrics for measuring speedcubing progress. Consistently track your Ao12 rather than your best single time for a more realistic picture of your current level. Use the WCA inspection timer (15-second countdown with 8-second and 12-second voice alerts) to practice competition conditions in every training session.