Speedsolving.com Wiki - User contributions [en]

FAQ

2009-06-20T00:27:16Z

Ec1ipse: /* Where can I buy cubes? */

== Frequently Asked Questions ==
Feel free to fill in the answers. Link to posts or sites you feel are relevant or provide your own original content.

Do *not* copy other people's content from their sites and simply paste it in here. That's called plagiarism and it's stealing.
=== Cubes ===
==== What is the best cube? ====
It really depends on your personal preference. For DIYs, types A, C, D, F and Cube4you or Edison cubes are often used. Storebought cubes are also rather popular and can be decent after breaking in. Experiment, and you'll find a good cube eventually. Many people like to use hybrids as well, which are made from cubes of different types. For example, Erik Akkersdijk uses a hybrid with a core from Rubiks.com and type B cubies.

For more information, see the [[types of cubes and other puzzles]] page.

==== Where can I buy cubes? ====
You can try [http://www.rubikfans.com: Rubikfans], [http://www.rubiks.com: Rubik's official Store], [http://www.9spuzzles.com: 9spuzzles], [http://www.puzl.co.uk: puzl.co.uk ], [http://www.cube4you.com: Cube4You], [http://cubefans.com/: Cubefan's], or other places such as ebay. Cubefans and Cube4You are the same store, it's just that Cube4You works best on Internet Explorer. For specialty products, try [http://www.mefferts.com/: Meffert's] and the [https://v-cubes.com/ecom/home.php?cat=248: V Cube shop]. Also, it's a good idea to check some garage sales or flea markets, as puzzles have been found for much cheaper than actual value.

==== How do I lubricate my cube? ====
You can either take a piece or two out and spray the lubricant in directly, or disassemble and fully spray the lubricant on every piece with sweeps. There are many tutorials in youtube if you need help. Also, check youtube for techniques to lubricate big cubes.

The best lubricants tend to be silicone based. Products like Jig-a-Loo and CRC Heavy Duty Silicone spray are very popular among cubers. There is a lubricant made specially for cubing which can be bought at [http://stores.shop.ebay.com/PuzzleProz: Puzzleproz]. You should never use WD-40 lube on your cube as it contains petroleum distillates which can damage the plastic. Some people do use petroleum jelly to break in really stiff cubes such as storeboughts, but it should never be used as lube.

=== Timers ===
==== Where can I buy a timer like they use in competition? ====
[http://www.speedstacks.com: Speedstacks] and [http://www.ebay.com: Ebay] are the best places to buy. Speedstacks is probably the most reliable source for timers, but sometimes you can find a cheap deal on ebay. It's also possible to make your own timer [http://grrroux.free.fr/workshop/workshop.html].

==== Are there timers on the Internet? ====
Yes.

Try Cubetimer [http://www.cubetimer.com], Rubetimer [http://www.rubetimer.com], or look for other timers. Google for a while and you will find numerous timers on the net. Also, Cubemania [http://www.cubemania.com] is a site that times and keeps track of all the solves you submit.

==== Can I download a timer for my computer/phone/psp? ====
You can download CCT [http://cube.garron.us/cct/] for your computer. This is the timer that is very popular with many features like being able to connect a speedstacks timer with a data port to the computer and use it with CCT. Another great timer is [http://www.strangepuzzle.com/jnetcube.html: JNet Cube].

For your phone, if it has a built in timer, then use that. If you don't then you probably won't be able to time yourself. However, if you have an iPhone or iPod Touch, then you're in luck. There is an app that times your solves called "iCube Timer".

Note that for solves that take more than 15 seconds, a simple analog clock will work just fine if you don't need precise timing.

==== Where can I find a scramble generator? ====
Most timers (customized for cubing) come preset with scrambles.
If your timer does not have scrambles, you can use [http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/regulations/#scrambling: this page] to find a scramble generator for your puzzle.

==== Where are the rules for WCA competitions? ====
On the [http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/regulations/: WCA site] of course!

=== Methods ===
==== What is the fastest method? ====
There is no "ultimate method." Again, it's personal preference. The most popular speedcubing methods are Fridrich and Petrus, although other methods such as Roux and ZZ are gaining popularity as well. Most of the top speedcubers use the Fridrich method, but still, that doesn't mean it's the best.

==== What is the easiest method? ====
The easiest method to learn is probably the beginner's layer-by-layer method in which you solve the first, second, and the finally the last layer one by one. It's pretty basic, therefore easy to learn.

However, this method however is relatively slow and inefficient. It is quite hard to speedcube and achieve fast times with.

==== What is the method that uses the fewest moves? ====
The most popular method for Fewest Moves solving is the Petrus method. Although it is designed for speed, it tends to have a very good move efficiency compared to other methods. The Heise method is another method that was designed specifically for move efficiency rather than speed. It is highly intuitive and very difficult to master. Other methods can be still be made efficient if you plan your moves carefully.

==== Should I learn algorithms for F2L or learn it intuitively? ====
That is entirely your choice. Learning the algs isn't entirely hard since most cases can be seen and understood by practicing the algorithms. Intuitively, it will take practice to be able to do with speed and efficiency.

Most people choose to learn intuitively and with some practice, it can be just as fast. Intuitive F2L is may take more time to master but it is generally preferred because it allows for the use of advanced speed-reducing techniques such as multislotting and the use of empty slots.

==== How can I get faster? ====
Practise, practise, practise. That is the key way to get speed. Normally, with some work, your times will gradually drop without you doing anything.

If you haven't, try learning an advanced method. That should help you lower your times considerably.

Work on lowering your move count, look ahead and experiment with tricks.

Learn new algorithms.

Unglue your eyes from your computer screen, pick up your puzzle, and try to get faster. :p

Fridrich Method

2009-06-19T04:22:28Z

Ec1ipse:

The '''Fridrich Method''', also '''CFOP'''; ''Cross, F2L, OLL and PLL'', , was popularized by [[Jessica Fridrich]]. It is similar to the [[Layer-By-Layer]] (LBL) [[method]], because some of the steps are the same. However, the full Fridrich method uses many more algorithms than the layer by layer method, and combines some steps from the LBL method into one step. A very large number of people use this method, so there's a huge support network, and almost everyone will be able to help with learning it. The vast majority of the fastest cubers use this method (although that does not mean this is the only fast method).
The fact that the name Fridrich method is used for this method can be discussed. Fridrich was the first to publish and popularize the method although several other people also invented this method at the same time. A 'better' but less used name for this method would simply be the CFOP method.

==The Steps==

1. '''[[Cross]]'''

First, make a cross on any side of the cube. This entails solving all of the edges with a given color to their proper positions.

2. '''[[F2L]] (First Two Layers)'''

In this step you fill in the slots where the corners of the cross are missing. For each insertion, a corner and an edge are placed simultaneously. There are 41 basic cases for this step, but it can be learned intuitively.

3. '''[[OLL]] (Orient the Last Layer)'''

Next, you make the entire top side of the cube a solid color. This requires 57 algorithms, but can be broken down into two steps (2 Look OLL), which only requires 9 algorithms.

4. '''[[PLL]] (Permute the Last Layer)'''

Finally, you finish the cube by permuting the top layer of the cube. There are 21 algorithms to learn, but this step can be done into two steps, (2 Look PLL), which includes just 6 algorithms.

==Pros==

This method is relatively easy to understand when compared to other methods. Therefore, it is the most tested and most popular method used. It has a reasonable number of algorithms to learn, and sub 15 second averages are definitely possible. World records for this method has been set many times. It takes less thinking than block-building methods because it's more algorithm based.

==Cons==

Learning all of the algorithms takes some time, and it requires a lot of practice to solve the F2L consistently in 10 seconds or less. Also, it has a slightly higher move count when compared to block building methods.

==Where to learn the Fridrich (CFOP) method==

* [http://www.solvethecube.co.uk/ Joël van Noort's tutorial]
* [http://erikku.er.funpic.org/rubik/ Erik Akkersdijk's tutorial]
* [http://www.cubefreak.net/speedcubing.html Shotaro Makisumi's tutorial]

Note: Written by the members of the speedsolving forum in this thread: http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=3688 - Posted by [[User:Rubik's Cube Fan|Rubik's Cube Fan]]

[[Category:3x3x3 methods]]

Layer

2009-06-19T04:19:42Z

Ec1ipse:

Layer refers to, well, the layers on a cube. Saying the first layer usually refers to the slice on the very bottom of the cube (D turns).
{{stub}}

[[Category:Cubing terminology]]

Layer

2009-06-19T04:19:23Z

Ec1ipse:

{{stub}}
Layer refers to, well, the layers on a cube. Saying the first layer usually refers to the slice on the very bottom of the cube (D turns).
[[Category:Cubing terminology]]

Layer by layer

2009-06-19T04:17:09Z

Ec1ipse:

'''Layer-By-Layer''', or normally only '''LBL''' is a group of [[method]]s that solves the [[cube]] in layers. In the basic, beginner LBL method, the solver finishes the layers one at a time: the first layer edges, then corners; then the second layer's edges; and finally the [[last layer]]. This is the most common method for new cubers to discover on their own. More advanced LBL methods solve layers more efficiently or solve two layers at once: for example, the [[Fridrich method]] solves the [[first two layers]] simultaneously, by forming a [[cross]] of the first layer's [[edge]]s and then filling in four [[pair]]s of a [[corner]] and an [[edge]] into the so-called [[slot]]s.

{{Stub}}

FAQ

2009-06-19T04:08:34Z

Ec1ipse: /* Where can I buy cubes? */

== Frequently Asked Questions ==
Feel free to fill in the answers. Link to posts or sites you feel are relevant or provide your own original content.

Do *not* copy other people's content from their sites and simply paste it in here. That's called plagiarism and it's stealing.
=== Cubes ===
==== What is the best cube? ====
It really depends on what you like. Many people tend to choose cubes like the diy type a, c, d, f, Cube4you, or Edison cubes. Look out for those because those tend to be the favorites of people. Experiment, you'll find a good cube eventually. Many people like to use hybrids as well. Erik Akkersdijk uses a hybrid with a core from Rubiks.com and type B cubies.

==== Where can I buy cubes? ====
Try rubikfans [http://www.rubikfans.com], cube4you [http://www.cube4you.com], 9spuzzles [http://www.9spuzzles.com], [http://www.rubikefans.com], puzl.co.uk [http://www.puzl.co.uk], or other places such as ebay.

==== How do I lubricate my cube? ====
You can:
1. Take a piece or two out and spray the lubricant in directly.
2. Disassemble and fully spray the lubricant on every piece with sweeps.

The best lube tends to be silicone based. Products like Jig-a-Loo and CRC Heavy Duty Silicone spray are very popular among cubers. There is also lubricant made specially for cubing which can be bought at Puzzleproz [http://stores.shop.ebay.com/PuzzleProz]. You should never use WD-40 lube on your cube as it contains petroleum distillates which can damage the plastic. Some people do use petroleum jelly to break in really stiff cubes such as the ones bought at stores, but it should never be used as lube.

=== Timers ===
==== Where can I buy a timer like they use in competition? ====
Speedstacks [http://www.speedstacks.com] and Ebay [http://www.ebay.com] are the best places to buy. Speedstacks is probably thee most reliable source for timers, but sometimes you can find a cheap deal on ebay.

==== Are there timers on the Internet? ====
Yes.

Try Cubetimer [http://www.cubetimer.com], Rubetimer [http://www.rubetimer.com], or look for other timers. Google for a while and you will find numerous timers on the net. Also, Cubemania [http://www.cubemania.com] is a site that times and keeps track of all the solves you submit.

==== Can I download a timer for my computer/phone/psp? ====
You can download CCT [http://cube.garron.us/cct/] for your computer. This is the timer that is very popular with many features like being able to connect a speedstacks timer with a data port to the computer and use it with CCT.

For your phone, if it has a built in timer, then use that. If you don't then you probably won't be able to time yourself.

However, if you have an iPhone or iPod Touch, then you're in luck. There is an app that times your solves called "iCube Timer".

==== Where can I find a scramble generator? ====
Most timers (customized for cubing) come preset with scrambles.
If your timer does not have scrambles, you can use [http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/regulations/#scrambling: this page] to find a scramble generator for your puzzle.

==== Where are the rules for WCA competitions? ====
On the [http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/regulations/: WCA site] of course!

=== Methods ===
==== What is the fastest method? ====
There is no "ultimate method." The most popular speedcubing methods are Fridrich and Petrus, although other methods such as Roux and ZZ are gaining popularity as well. Most of the top speedcubers use the Fridrich method, but that doesn't mean it's the best.

==== What is the easiest method? ====
The easiest method to learn is most likely going to be the beginner's layer-by-layer method in which you solve the first, second, and the finally the last layer one by one.

This method however is generally very slow for most and is quite hard to speedcube and achieve fast times with.

==== What is the method that uses the fewest moves? ====
The most popular method for Fewest Moves solving is the Petrus method. Although it is designed for speed, it tends to have a very good move efficiency compared to other methods. The Heise method is another method that was designed specifically for move efficiency rather than speed. It is highly intuitive and very difficult to master. Other methods can be still be made efficient if you plan your moves carefully.

==== Should I learn algorithms for F2L or learn it intuitively? ====
That is entirely your choice. Learning the algs isn't entirely hard since most cases can be seen and understood by practicing the algorithms. Intuitively, it will take practice to be able to do with speed and efficiency.

Most people choose to learn intuitively and with some practice, it can be just as fast. Intuitive F2L is may take more time to master but it is generally preferred because it allows for the use of advanced speed-reducing techniques such as multislotting and the use of empty slots.

==== How can I get faster? ====
Practise, practise, practise. That is the key way to get speed. Normally, with some work, your times will gradually drop without you doing anything.

If you haven't, try learning an advanced method. That should help you lower your times considerably.

Work on lowering your move count, look ahead and experiment with tricks.

Learn new algorithms.

Unglue your eyes from your computer screen, pick up your puzzle, and try to get faster. :p

FAQ

2009-06-19T04:06:31Z

Ec1ipse: /* How do I lubricate my cube? */

== Frequently Asked Questions ==
Feel free to fill in the answers. Link to posts or sites you feel are relevant or provide your own original content.

Do *not* copy other people's content from their sites and simply paste it in here. That's called plagiarism and it's stealing.
=== Cubes ===
==== What is the best cube? ====
It really depends on what you like. Many people tend to choose cubes like the diy type a, c, d, f, Cube4you, or Edison cubes. Look out for those because those tend to be the favorites of people. Experiment, you'll find a good cube eventually. Many people like to use hybrids as well. Erik Akkersdijk uses a hybrid with a core from Rubiks.com and type B cubies.

==== Where can I buy cubes? ====
try rubikfans [http://www.rubikfans.com], cube4you [http://www.cube4you.com], 9spuzzles [http://www.9spuzzles.com], [http://www.rubikefans.com], puzl.co.uk [http://www.puzl.co.uk], or other places such as around ebay.

==== How do I lubricate my cube? ====
You can:
1. Take a piece or two out and spray the lubricant in directly.
2. Disassemble and fully spray the lubricant on every piece with sweeps.

The best lube tends to be silicone based. Products like Jig-a-Loo and CRC Heavy Duty Silicone spray are very popular among cubers. There is also lubricant made specially for cubing which can be bought at Puzzleproz [http://stores.shop.ebay.com/PuzzleProz]. You should never use WD-40 lube on your cube as it contains petroleum distillates which can damage the plastic. Some people do use petroleum jelly to break in really stiff cubes such as the ones bought at stores, but it should never be used as lube.

=== Timers ===
==== Where can I buy a timer like they use in competition? ====
Speedstacks [http://www.speedstacks.com] and Ebay [http://www.ebay.com] are the best places to buy. Speedstacks is probably thee most reliable source for timers, but sometimes you can find a cheap deal on ebay.

==== Are there timers on the Internet? ====
Yes.

Try Cubetimer [http://www.cubetimer.com], Rubetimer [http://www.rubetimer.com], or look for other timers. Google for a while and you will find numerous timers on the net. Also, Cubemania [http://www.cubemania.com] is a site that times and keeps track of all the solves you submit.

==== Can I download a timer for my computer/phone/psp? ====
You can download CCT [http://cube.garron.us/cct/] for your computer. This is the timer that is very popular with many features like being able to connect a speedstacks timer with a data port to the computer and use it with CCT.

For your phone, if it has a built in timer, then use that. If you don't then you probably won't be able to time yourself.

However, if you have an iPhone or iPod Touch, then you're in luck. There is an app that times your solves called "iCube Timer".

==== Where can I find a scramble generator? ====
Most timers (customized for cubing) come preset with scrambles.
If your timer does not have scrambles, you can use [http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/regulations/#scrambling: this page] to find a scramble generator for your puzzle.

==== Where are the rules for WCA competitions? ====
On the [http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/regulations/: WCA site] of course!

=== Methods ===
==== What is the fastest method? ====
There is no "ultimate method." The most popular speedcubing methods are Fridrich and Petrus, although other methods such as Roux and ZZ are gaining popularity as well. Most of the top speedcubers use the Fridrich method, but that doesn't mean it's the best.

==== What is the easiest method? ====
The easiest method to learn is most likely going to be the beginner's layer-by-layer method in which you solve the first, second, and the finally the last layer one by one.

This method however is generally very slow for most and is quite hard to speedcube and achieve fast times with.

==== What is the method that uses the fewest moves? ====
The most popular method for Fewest Moves solving is the Petrus method. Although it is designed for speed, it tends to have a very good move efficiency compared to other methods. The Heise method is another method that was designed specifically for move efficiency rather than speed. It is highly intuitive and very difficult to master. Other methods can be still be made efficient if you plan your moves carefully.

==== Should I learn algorithms for F2L or learn it intuitively? ====
That is entirely your choice. Learning the algs isn't entirely hard since most cases can be seen and understood by practicing the algorithms. Intuitively, it will take practice to be able to do with speed and efficiency.

Most people choose to learn intuitively and with some practice, it can be just as fast. Intuitive F2L is may take more time to master but it is generally preferred because it allows for the use of advanced speed-reducing techniques such as multislotting and the use of empty slots.

==== How can I get faster? ====
Practise, practise, practise. That is the key way to get speed. Normally, with some work, your times will gradually drop without you doing anything.

If you haven't, try learning an advanced method. That should help you lower your times considerably.

Work on lowering your move count, look ahead and experiment with tricks.

Learn new algorithms.

Unglue your eyes from your computer screen, pick up your puzzle, and try to get faster. :p