To solve a Rubik's Cube using the beginner's method, you typically follow a layer-by-layer approach with these main steps:
Step 1: Solve the White Cross
- Start by solving the white edges to form a cross on the white face.
- Align the white edge pieces with their corresponding center colors on adjacent sides.
- This step is intuitive but may require practice to avoid disturbing already placed pieces
Step 2: Solve the White Corners
- Position the white corner pieces between the matching center pieces on the first layer.
- Use the algorithm R U R' U' repeatedly to insert each white corner correctly without disrupting the white cross
Step 3: Solve the Second Layer Edges
- Focus on placing the four edge pieces in the middle layer that do not have yellow.
- Use specific algorithms to move edges from the top layer to the correct position in the middle layer:
- For edges going to the right: U R U' R' U' F' U F
- For edges going to the left: U' L' U L U F U' F'
Step 4: Create the Yellow Cross on the Top Layer
- Orient the yellow edges to form a cross on the yellow face using the algorithm F U R U' R' F'.
- Depending on the pattern (dot, L shape, or line), repeat the algorithm until the yellow cross appears
Step 5: Position the Yellow Edges Correctly
- Align the yellow cross edges with the center pieces on the sides.
- Use algorithms to swap edges until all are correctly positioned
Step 6: Position and Orient the Yellow Corners
- Position the yellow corners in their correct spots using an algorithm like L' U R U' L U R'.
- Then orient the yellow corners correctly using the algorithm R U R' U R U2 R' until the yellow face is complete
Step 7: Final Adjustments
- Perform any final moves to complete the cube without disturbing the solved parts.
This method breaks the solution into manageable steps and uses a small set of algorithms to move pieces without disrupting what is already solved. Video tutorials and animations can be very helpful to visualize these moves and practice the sequences
. In summary, the beginner's method involves:
- Solving the white cross and corners (first layer)
- Solving the middle layer edges
- Creating and solving the yellow cross and corners (top layer)
- Final positioning and orientation of pieces
With practice, you can solve the Rubik's Cube consistently in about 10 minutes or less
