hey, I'm really really really new...

[julesv]

Hi, I tried and solve the cube with the conventional beginner methods. I understand the logic in the algorithms to make the first layers so i have no problems with that, but then I am just stuck. i find it really hard to learn the algorithms, although I know I have to learn them. I find it easy when I finally get how they work. If anybody could suggest a good method for me to learn these algorithms. Also, if anyone knows a method which is easier? I'm aiming to get (after I practise a substantial amount get under 2 minutes). Thanks for the help in advance.

 

[Pr3miuM]

Try splitting those algorithms up in different parts and remember them little by little. Practise small parts that you remember with eyes closed, that way I got them in my muscle memory relatively fast. The more algorithms you learn the easier it becomes to learn new ones I'd say.

I'm also quite new here, been cubing for a while though. Keep up the practise and you'll be under 2 minutes in no time.

 

[Waynilein]

If you like understanding the logic and not just blindly applying algorithms, you might want to try a method such as Petrus or Heise. Heise especially uses only logic and intuition without a single algorithm.

 

[Kieran]

Another good way to learn how the algorithms work is to start with the solved cube, and do the algorithm a bunch of times (50 maybe?) as the cube will always return to the completed form if you do the same algorithm x amount of times. Then when you have done that, try doing the inverse of the algorithm and then finish the cube using the algorithm you already know. To do this, you'll have to start with the cube completed and apply the algorithm in reverse and inverse so.
R U Ri Ui goes to U R Ui Ri.

If you are learning the layer by layer method, I have a few tips.

The first layer wtih the cross and corners isn't too hard, but if you have a problem understanding that, you may need to spend more time thinking about the cube

2nd layer:From memory, you insert the 4 edge pieces. I always understood this step really easily. Match the edge up with the right colour, turn it the opposite way than you want it too, pull the front up, turn the top around, and then it should all make sense from there. (Bad explanation but I can't remember it all.)
For the last layer, just learn the finger trick for alligning all the cross. (R U Ri) and that algorithm will make sense. And the final algorithm turn the colour away, turn it back? It's how I'd remember it.

Good luck cubing. If you stick with it, you should be getting 2min averages in no time.

 

[MyklSkeleton]

I made this video quite awhile back but it might help you out. I just noticed I incorrectly state the algorithm for moving the corner piece to the FL position even though I execute it correctly. That alg should be: (U' L' U L)(F' L F L')

Hope that helps.

 

[manstrong]

I found it easiest to just solve it over and over using the sheet. Then, just did the first layer without it, then the second, and finally the edges/corners of the top. Just take it slow. I've had mine for.....5...months and am sub 1:00. I also found a sequence that I can memorize and do that over and over again blindfolded to practice the algorithms.

 

[julesv]

Thank you for all these replies. All of this seems a bit daunting, but I guess I have to set to it! I'll invent some sort of rhyme to help me remember it for the beggining at least... This is a really supportive community, unlike some other forums I've visited *cough*...

 

[DcF1337]

I just carry a list of algorithms with me wherever I go, along with a cube. I refer to the algorithms as I solve the cube. After some time, you'll automatically remember all the algorithms. I took about a week to memorize all of the algorithms used in the Beginner's method. So be patient if my method doesn't work at first.

 

[rubikscubiks]

just write them on paper and keep using that paper until u know them by heart thats wat i did and my fastest time is 2min 40secs and i started 4 weeks ago
gd luck..xx

 

[julesv]

Thank you. I managed to memorise both the middle layer algorithms in like 2 hours or so, much shorter (and easier) than I expected.

 

[MTGjumper]

2 hours to memorise algorithms that most Fridrich users would consider intuitive? Ouch. I'm supposing there's no muscle memory involved, and you're still getting used to how the cube "works".

 

[julesv]

"Ouch" as in? And yes, I am still understanding how all of these algorithms work. Why would fridrich users consider those intuitive. I've been reading about fridrich and how fast it is. Is it really hard? I was also wondering what were 'finger tricks'? I heard they greatly improved your speed. Could anybody post a link or something?

 

[kickinwing2112]

Just do them over and over until its automatic. I can't tell you one oll or pll alg but I can do them from muscle memory.

 

[teller]

"Ouch" as in? And yes, I am still understanding how all of these algorithms work. Why would fridrich users consider those intuitive. I've been reading about fridrich and how fast it is. Is it really hard? I was also wondering what were 'finger tricks'? I heard they greatly improved your speed. Could anybody post a link or something?

There is no ouch...some folks are so advanced around here that they have forgotten what it was like to be approaching this material for the first time. Congrats on breaking through and memorizing. Interestingly, the more of them you learn, the easier it is to memorize new ones.

I'm going to save you a lot of trouble by linking you to badmephisto's YouTube page. He has the best teaching material around:

http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=badmephisto&view=videos

Enjoy!

 

[MTGjumper]

I remember when I first approached Rubik's cubing and I didn't know what I was doing, but was just doing it because it worked. However, two hours seems excessive for a 7 move "algorithm" when it is composed of the same move twice (just mirrored) with a U or U' between.

 

[Waynilein]

Just do them over and over until its automatic. I can't tell you one oll or pll alg but I can do them from muscle memory.

Have you ever done one-handed solving? If not, have fun relearning ALL the algorithms again.

 

[julesv]

Thanks. I've heard about badmephisto quite alot around various forums.

 

[IamWEB]

What algorithms are you using for the first layer? There shouldn't be any at all, it's an intuitive thing when you look at how it works; luckily, you're trying to understand how an algorithm works.

 

[badmephisto]

Thanks. I've heard about badmephisto quite alot around various forums.

oh my god have you? Well I certainly hope the vids live up to the hype
many of my videos are advanced in nature, so don't get ahead of yourself and don't feel bad if you don't really get something. Ask here, or send me msg, and most importantly sleep on all the knowledge you've gained. thats always helps
cheers