Learn to solve a Rubik's Cube

⏱️ 2-4 hours to first solve, 1-2 weeks to master 📊 Beginner 🧩 Puzzle

About This Idea

Master this iconic puzzle using beginner-friendly algorithms. It's a fun way to improve spatial reasoning and impress your friends. Start with the white cross method and progress layer by layer. With focused practice, you can solve it in under 5 minutes and join a global community of 500,000+ cubers.

#problem-solving#patience#spatial-reasoning#puzzle#speedcubing

📑 Table of Contents

How to Get Started

PHASE 1
UNDERSTANDING (Day 1-2)
  1. Learn cube notation (R, U, F, L, B, D) using cubing.net/notation or watch J Perm's notation tutorial (youtube.com/@JPerm)
  2. Practice with online simulator at cubers.io - no physical cube needed to start
  3. Watch J Perm's beginner method tutorial (most popular, 15M+ views) - start with Part 1: White Cross
PHASE 2
FIRST LAYER (Day 3-5)
  1. Master the white cross - practice until you can do it in under 2 minutes
  2. Learn first layer corners using the R U R' U' algorithm
  3. Complete first layer consistently - aim for under 5 minutes total
PHASE 3
SECOND LAYER (Day 6-8)
  1. Learn edge insertion: U R U' R' U' F' U F (right) and U' L' U L U F U' F' (left)
  2. Practice smooth transitions between first and second layer
  3. Goal: Complete two layers in under 8 minutes
PHASE 4
FINAL LAYER (Day 9-12)
  1. Learn yellow cross algorithm: F R U R' U' F'
  2. Master corner orientation: R U R' U R U2 R'
  3. Learn PLL (Permute Last Layer) - start with T-perm and U-perm
  4. Celebrate your first full solve! Share on r/Cubers (500k+ members)

What You'll Need

Recommended Resources

🛠️ Tools & Apps

  • Online Simulator 🔗
    Practice without a physical cube
  • csTimer 🔗
    Professional speedcubing timer with statistics

📚 Tutorials & Learning

  • J Perm YouTube Channel 🔗
    Best beginner tutorials (15M+ views), clear explanations
  • Cube Notation Guide 🔗
    Learn R, U, F notation system

👥 Communities

  • r/Cubers 🔗
    500,000+ members, daily solve times, tips
  • SpeedSolving Forums 🔗
    Advanced techniques and competitions

Progress Milestones

Track your progress with these key achievements:

1
Day 1
Understand cube notation and can follow algorithms
2
Day 3
Complete white cross consistently
3
Day 5
Solve first layer in under 5 minutes
4
Day 7
Complete two layers
5
Day 12
First full solve! Average time: 10-15 minutes
6
Week 3
Consistent solves under 5 minutes
7
Month 2
Sub-2 minute solves, ready for speedcubing

Common Challenges & Solutions

Every beginner faces obstacles. Here's how to overcome them:

⚠️ Can't remember algorithms
Solution: Practice each algorithm 20 times slowly, then speed up. Use muscle memory - your hands will remember before your brain does.
⚠️ Getting stuck on final layer
Solution: The yellow cross algorithm (F R U R' U' F') works 90% of the time. If it doesn't, your cube might be in an impossible state - check if you accidentally rotated a center piece.
⚠️ Takes too long to solve
Solution: Speed comes with practice. Focus on accuracy first, then speed. Most beginners take 10-15 minutes for first solve - that's normal!

Share Your Progress

Celebrate your achievements and inspire others:

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