Learn to solve a Rubik's Cube
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.
On this page
How to get started
PHASE 1
UNDERSTANDING (Day 1-2)
- Learn cube notation (R, U, F, L, B, D) using cubing.net/notation or watch J Perm's notation tutorial (youtube.com/@JPerm)
- Practice with online simulator at cubers.io - no physical cube needed to start
- Watch J Perm's beginner method tutorial (most popular, 15M+ views) - start with Part 1: White Cross
PHASE 2
first layer (Day 3-5)
- Master the white cross - practice until you can do it in under 2 minutes
- Learn first layer corners using the R U R' U' algorithm
- Complete first layer consistently - aim for under 5 minutes total
PHASE 3
second layer (Day 6-8)
- Learn edge insertion: U R U' R' U' F' U F (right) and U' L' U L U F U' F' (left)
- Practice smooth transitions between first and second layer
- Goal: Complete two layers in under 8 minutes
PHASE 4
final layer (Day 9-12)
- Learn yellow cross algorithm: F R U R' U' F'
- Master corner orientation: R U R' U R U2 R'
- Learn PLL (Permute Last Layer) - start with T-perm and U-perm
- Celebrate your first full solve! Share on r/Cubers (500k+ members)
What you’ll need
- rubiks cube ($5-15)
- internet access
Recommended resources
Tools & Apps
Tutorials & Learning
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
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:
- • Post your first solve time on r/Cubers with #FirstSolve
- • Share a video of your solve on TikTok/Instagram with #CubingProgress
- • Challenge friends to learn together and compare times
- • Join local speedcubing competitions (find on speedsolving.com)