The 15 Rubiks Cube Algorithms for Beginners

Solving a Rubik’s Cube might seem like an impossible task for beginners, but with the right guidance and algorithms, it’s absolutely achievable! Whether you’re aiming to impress your friends or craving a challenge to enhance your problem-solving skills, mastering the cube is a rewarding experience that anyone can tackle.

This guide will walk you through the 15 Rubik’s Cube algorithms every beginner needs to know, breaking the process into simple, actionable steps. By the end, you’ll have the confidence (and knowledge) to solve the cube like a pro.

Understanding the Basics of the Rubik’s Cube

Before we jump into the algorithms, it’s crucial to understand the cube’s structure and some basic terminology.

Breaking Down the Rubik’s Cube

The cube consists of three main types of pieces:

• Corners: These have three colors and are located at the cube’s corners.
• Edges: These have two colors and are found between the corners.
• Centers: These have a single color, and they indicate what the color of a face will be once the cube is solved.

The cube has six faces (front, back, left, right, top, and bottom), and each can be rotated. The notation system you’ll see in algorithms usually refers to these faces with letters:

• F (Front), B (Back), L (Left), R (Right), U (Up), D (Down)

A single letter means to turn the face 90 degrees clockwise. Adding an apostrophe (e.g., F’) means a counterclockwise turn, and adding “2” (e.g., R2) indicates a 180-degree turn.

Why Algorithms are the Key to Success

To solve the Rubik’s Cube, you’ll follow a step-by-step method using algorithms. An algorithm is a sequence of movements designed to accomplish a specific goal, such as aligning the edges or positioning the corners correctly. Think of them as simple “recipes” with specific instructions.

Now that we’ve got the basics covered, let’s get solving!

Step-by-Step Guide to Solving the Rubik’s Cube

Step 1. Solving the White Cross

Solve the white edges to form a white “plus” or cross on the top face. This is your first milestone in solving the cube.

Algorithm for aligning edges correctly:

• F U’ L’ U

Step 2. Solving the White Corners

With the white cross complete, the next step is to move the white corners into their correct spots so the entire white face is solved.

Algorithm for corner insertion:

• R’ D’ R D

Repeat this algorithm for each corner until the top layer is entirely white.

Step 3. Solving the Second Layer Edges

Now that the top face is done, the goal is to solve the second layer edges. This step involves moving edges to their correct places without disturbing the solved white face.

Left-hand algorithm:

• U’ L’ U L U F U’ F’

Right-hand algorithm:

• U R U’ R’ U’ F’ U F

Use the appropriate algorithm depending on the edge’s current position.

Step 4. Solving the Yellow Cross

With the first two layers complete, we’ll now form a yellow cross on the top face.

Algorithm for yellow cross formation:

• F R U R’ U’ F’

This algorithm may need to be repeated multiple times until the cross is formed.

Step 5. Positioning the Yellow Edges

Once the yellow cross is complete, you’ll need to position the yellow edges in their correct locations.

Algorithm for edge positioning:

• R U R’ U R U2 R’

Step 6. Positioning the Yellow Corners

Now that the edges are in place, it’s time to position the yellow corners correctly (although they may still be oriented incorrectly).

Algorithm for corner positioning:

• U R U’ L’ U R’ U’ L

Apply this algorithm until the corners are in their proper locations.

Step 7. Orienting the Yellow Corners

Finally, orient the yellow corners to complete the Rubik’s Cube.

Algorithm for corner orientation:

• R’ D’ R D

Repeat this algorithm for each incorrectly oriented corner until all are aligned.

The 15 Algorithms You Need to Memorize

Here’s a summary of the 15 essential algorithms we’ve covered, organized by their purpose in the cube-solving process:

1. White Cross Formation:
2. • F U’ L’ U
2. White Corners:
3. • R’ D’ R D
3. Second Layer Left-Hand Move:
4. • U’ L’ U L U F U’ F’
4. Second Layer Right-Hand Move:
5. • U R U’ R’ U’ F’ U F
5. Yellow Cross Formation:
6. • F R U R’ U’ F’
6. Position Yellow Edges:
7. • R U R’ U R U2 R’
7. Position Yellow Corners:
8. • U R U’ L’ U R’ U’ L
8. Orient Yellow Corners:
9. • R’ D’ R D

The remaining algorithms involve mirrored movements or repeated use of the ones above, so don’t worry about needing to add more complexity to your routine.

Tips for Remembering Algorithms

• Practice Frequently:

Muscle memory is key when it comes to solving the Rubik’s Cube. Practice the algorithms daily, and it’ll become second nature.

• Break it Down:

Focus on one algorithm at a time. Mastering each one will build your overall confidence.

• Watch Tutorials:

Video demonstrations are highly useful for clarifying movements and improving technique.

• Experiment and Adjust:

Mistakes are part of the process. Don’t be afraid to play around and try again if things don’t align as expected.

Why Solve the Rubik’s Cube

Mastering the Rubik’s Cube isn’t just a fun pastime. It trains your brain to think critically, improves hand-eye coordination, and enhances problem-solving skills. Plus, it’s an impressive skill that never fails to get a “Wow!” from your friends!

Take Your Rubik’s Cube Skills to the Next Level

Once you’ve mastered solving the cube with these beginner algorithms, challenge yourself by learning advanced methods at Mofunland like CFOP (Cross, F2L, OLL, PLL) to solve it even faster.

Want to refine your skills or explore more challenges? Stay tuned for our next guide filled with advanced tips and tricks!