10 Rubik’s Cube Tricks Every Solver Should Know

The Rubik’s Cube, since its invention by Ernő Rubik in 1974, has captivated minds with its intricate challenge and colorful allure. While the puzzle may initially seem daunting, there are several strategies and tricks that can significantly simplify the solving process. In this article, we’ll delve into 10 essential Rubik’s Cube tricks that can transform any novice into a proficient solver. These tricks, ranging from basic principles to more advanced tactics, cater to all levels of expertise and are designed to enhance your solving efficiency and speed.

1. Understanding the Cube’s Mechanics

Before diving into complex strategies, it’s crucial to grasp the basic mechanics of the Rubik’s Cube. Each of the six faces can rotate independently, allowing the 26 smaller cubes, or cubies, to rearrange. Recognizing that the center pieces are fixed and only the edges and corners can move is key to solving the puzzle.

2. The White Cross Trick

Starting with the white face is a common approach for beginners. The goal here is to form a white cross on the white face while ensuring that the side colors of the edge pieces match the center pieces of adjacent sides. This foundational trick sets up the rest of the puzzle for an easier solve.

3. The Daisy Flower Method

An alternative to the white cross is the “daisy flower” method, where you form a yellow cross on the top of the cube first, which looks like a daisy. Each petal (edge piece) will have a white center. From this formation, you can easily manipulate the white edges to their correct positions, streamlining the process of completing the first layer.

4. Finger Tricks for Faster Turns

Speedcubing is not just about knowing the algorithms but also about executing them quickly. Learning finger tricks, such as using the index or ring fingers to make quick flicks, can help you rotate the cube faster. This minimizes the time spent on each move, crucial for improving your solving speed.

5. The Righty and Lefty Algorithms

Understanding and mastering “righty” (R U Ri Ui) and “lefty” (Li Ui L U) algorithms can significantly aid in solving the cube. These are simple sequences used to reposition cubies without disrupting segments of the cube that are already solved. Memorizing these sequences can provide a straightforward approach to solving more complex scenarios.

6. Corner Twisting Technique

Once the first two layers are complete, you’ll often find that the corners of the last layer need to be twisted without changing their position. Using a specific algorithm (Ri Di R D) repeatedly can help rotate these corners without affecting the overall progress you’ve made.

7. The X-Cross

The X-cross is an advanced trick where you not only complete the bottom face and the first layer but also one edge of the second layer simultaneously. This sets up the rest of the cube for a quicker solve, as it reduces the number of moves required to finish the second layer.

8. Look Ahead Strategy

The look-ahead strategy involves planning your next moves while you are performing current ones. This requires practice but leads to a smoother and quicker solve as it minimizes pauses. By keeping an eye on the unsolved elements while executing algorithms, you can continuously solve without stopping.

9. The Two-Look OLL/PLL

OLL (Orientation of the Last Layer) and PLL (Permutation of the Last Layer) are two stages used to finish the cube. The two-look versions of these methods simplify the process by breaking it down into two steps each, reducing the number of algorithms needed to learn and increasing solve speed.

10. Practice, Practice, Practice

Like any skill, proficiency in solving the Rubik’s Cube comes with practice. Regularly challenging yourself with different scrambles and timing your solves can help improve both your dexterity and your algorithm recall. Online simulators and Rubik’s Cube apps can also provide additional practice and feedback.

Conclusion

Mastering these 10 Rubik’s Cube tricks will equip any solver with the tools needed to tackle this challenging puzzle more effectively and enjoyably. Whether you’re a beginner looking to solve the cube for the first time or an experienced cuber aiming to improve your speed, these strategies are essential. Remember, every cube solver starts somewhere, and with these tricks up your sleeve, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a Rubik’s Cube aficionado.