Cross tricks/algs

[Zarxrax]

I saw badmephisto's video where he shows some neat fingertricks for a few cross cases: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BTydBg21aaw

And then I saw a few more interesting cases at planet-puzzle: http://www.planet-puzzle.com/cross.html

I'm hungry for more! Anyone have any more nice algs for specific cross cases?

 

[Cyrus C.]

I always try to put in/set up 2 cross pieces at a time.

 

[Zarxrax]

I always try to put in/set up 2 cross pieces at a time.

Hmmm... I wonder how difficult it would be to generate a set of every possible combination of 2 cross pieces, and algs for those sets. I think it would probably be a fairly small number of cases, and then you could solve any cross in 2 looks (and obviously it would be pretty trivial to see the 2nd step in your head before you begin)
I'm not necessarily saying it would be worthwhile to learn algs for all of those cases, but they would be interesting to look at, nonetheless.

 

[Cyrus C.]

I always try to put in/set up 2 cross pieces at a time.

Hmmm... I wonder how difficult it would be to generate a set of every possible combination of 2 cross pieces, and algs for those sets. I think it would probably be a fairly small number of cases, and then you could solve any cross in 2 looks (and obviously it would be pretty trivial to see the 2nd step in your head before you begin)
I'm not necessarily saying it would be worthwhile to learn algs for all of those cases, but they would be interesting to look at, nonetheless.

No, algorithms would make cross bad. One thing I think helps me on cross (I tend to have a good cross in my mind,) is that I practice blockbuilding a lot. It helps you look at different ways you can manipulate edges at the same time, sometimes all 4. & since you don't have to worry about corners, it seems kind of easy.

 

[Zarxrax]

No, algorithms would make cross bad.

As I said, I'm not necessarily saying it would be worth learning the algs, but it would be nice to have them just to see some optimal ways of solving each case. It's like F2L algs, you don't need to memorize them, but if you at least browse though them, you can have some of those "aha!" moments.

 

[eastamazonantidote]

I find the cross to be the most inventive and personalized part of the solve. There are no algorithms to use, only your intuition. Especially with X-crossing, you truly prove your worth in solving and conceptualizing 3-D puzzles.

I don't like algs much for crosses, though sometimes I find a use for them. I prefer better technique to algs.

That being said, my technique is something I developed to help me perform my cross blindfolded. I find at least 3 cross pieces for white. If they create a bad case, I plan for yellow instead. If they create a nice case, I plan out my solution for them (usually already found when determining good/bad) and then find the 4th piece and figure out where it'll end up. Sometimes I can insert the 4th piece first or improv it in halfway, but mostly it comes in last. Is it an efficient way to cross? Most certainly not. But it is fast and easy to do effectively. By doing this 3 + 1 technique instead of all 4 at once, I have (1) increased my chances for finding X-crosses mid-solve, (2) been able to X-cross without so much planning, and (3) sped up my cross execution time immensely. I cannot emphasize the last point enough. My cross used to be abysmal, and by turning it into 2 steps, I have been able to find my cross faster, perform it fast, and lead into F2L better, equaling better solves.

 

[TCUBER]

Just always track the pieces around in your mind while the 15 second inspection time that is give.