Speedsolving.com Wiki - User contributions [en]

Corners First

2009-06-20T20:12:26Z

Lord Voldemort: /* Beginner CF Methods */

'''Corners First''' methods, abbreviated as '''CF''', are [[speedcubing]] methods that solve all of the corners (relative to each other) before anything else. There are not very many serious CF solvers for [[3x3x3]] these days, because it is very difficult to get under 20 seconds with a pure CF method, but CF methods are relatively easy to invent and were very popular in the [[1980s]]. At least in theory, CF methods exist for all puzzles with corners, although for many puzzles (such as [[big cube]]s) they are impractical for speedsolving. For the [[2x2x2]], on the other hand, there are only corners, so any method is in effect a CF method, and ideas from 2x2 solving can be applied to CF methods on any larger [[cube]] puzzle. The most popular methods for solving the corners are [[Guimond]], [[Ortega]], and [[CLL]]; there are many ways to do the edges, perhaps the most efficient of which is the [[Waterman]] method.

== Beginner CF Methods ==
There are no specifically named methods in this group, but a typical beginner CF method may look like this:

'''Corners:'''
* Solve the corners of the first layer using intuition.
* Orient the [[LL]] corners using R U R' U' R' F R F' or a similar algorithm.
* Permute the [[LL]] corners using a 3 cycle of corners (A Permutation)
'''Centres:'''
* Move centres into position using slice turns (trivial).
'''Edges:'''
* Place the edges of the E layer using moves like ([[AUF]]) + M' R U' M U R'.
* Place the edges of first layer using M' U M or M' U2 M.
* Orient the last layer edges using [[EOLL#EOLL preserving corners|EOLL]].
* Permute the last layer edges with [[EPLL]] (for the most basic methods this can be done with only the [[PLL#U Permutation : a|U-perm]]).

[[Category:3x3x3 methods]]

Talk:FAQ

2009-06-20T19:58:53Z

Lord Voldemort: New page: ... Discussion Page ...

... Discussion Page ...

FAQ

2009-06-19T17:11:49Z

Lord Voldemort: /* What is the best 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 your preferences. Most people choose cubes the DIY types A, C, D, F, Cube4you, or Edison cubes. Storebought cubes are also popular and can be decent after breaking in. Experiment, you'll find a good cube eventually. Many people like to use hybrids as well. 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? ====
Try [http://www.rubikfans.com: Rubikfans], [http://www.9spuzzles.com: 9spuzzles], [http://stores.shop.ebay.com/RubikFans-Shop__W0QQ_armrsZ1: RubikFans], [http://www.puzl.co.uk: puzl.co.uk ], [http://www.cube4you.com: Cube4You], [http://cubefans.com/: Cubefan's], or other places such as ebay. Generally, for American buyers, Cubefans's is more reliable than Cube4You (they are from the same owner). 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." 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

2009-06-19T17:11:25Z

Lord Voldemort: /* What is the best 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 your preferences. Most people choose cubes the DIY types A, C, D, F, Cube4you, or Edison cubes. Storebought cubes are also popular and can be decent after breaking in. Experiment, you'll find a good cube eventually. Many people like to use hybrids as well. 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? ====
Try [http://www.rubikfans.com: Rubikfans], [http://www.9spuzzles.com: 9spuzzles], [http://stores.shop.ebay.com/RubikFans-Shop__W0QQ_armrsZ1: RubikFans], [http://www.puzl.co.uk: puzl.co.uk ], [http://www.cube4you.com: Cube4You], [http://cubefans.com/: Cubefan's], or other places such as ebay. Generally, for American buyers, Cubefans's is more reliable than Cube4You (they are from the same owner). 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." 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

2009-06-19T17:05:00Z

Lord Voldemort: /* Can I download a timer for my computer/phone/psp? */

== 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 preferences. Most people choose cubes the DIY types A, C, D, F, Cube4you, or Edison cubes. Storebought cubes are also popular and can be decent after breaking in. Experiment, you'll find a good cube eventually. Many people like to use hybrids as well. For example, Erik Akkersdijk uses a hybrid with a core from Rubiks.com and type B cubies.

[[Cube Types]] Here we can create a page that lists each type of cube and their relative pros and cons.

==== Where can I buy cubes? ====
Try [http://www.rubikfans.com: Rubikfans], [http://www.9spuzzles.com: 9spuzzles], [http://stores.shop.ebay.com/RubikFans-Shop__W0QQ_armrsZ1: RubikFans], [http://www.puzl.co.uk: puzl.co.uk ], [http://www.cube4you.com: Cube4You], [http://cubefans.com/: Cubefan's], or other places such as ebay. Generally, for American buyers, Cubefans's is more reliable than Cube4You (they are from the same owner). 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." 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

2009-06-19T17:03:18Z

Lord Voldemort: /* Where can I buy a timer like they use in competition? */

== 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 preferences. Most people choose cubes the DIY types A, C, D, F, Cube4you, or Edison cubes. Storebought cubes are also popular and can be decent after breaking in. Experiment, you'll find a good cube eventually. Many people like to use hybrids as well. For example, Erik Akkersdijk uses a hybrid with a core from Rubiks.com and type B cubies.

[[Cube Types]] Here we can create a page that lists each type of cube and their relative pros and cons.

==== Where can I buy cubes? ====
Try [http://www.rubikfans.com: Rubikfans], [http://www.9spuzzles.com: 9spuzzles], [http://stores.shop.ebay.com/RubikFans-Shop__W0QQ_armrsZ1: RubikFans], [http://www.puzl.co.uk: puzl.co.uk ], [http://www.cube4you.com: Cube4You], [http://cubefans.com/: Cubefan's], or other places such as ebay. Generally, for American buyers, Cubefans's is more reliable than Cube4You (they are from the same owner). 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.

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." 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

2009-06-19T15:47:57Z

Lord Voldemort: /* Can I download a timer for my computer/phone/psp? */

== 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 preferences. Most people choose cubes the DIY types A, C, D, F, Cube4you, or Edison cubes. Storebought cubes are also popular and can be decent after breaking in. Experiment, you'll find a good cube eventually. Many people like to use hybrids as well. For example, Erik Akkersdijk uses a hybrid with a core from Rubiks.com and type B cubies.

==== Where can I buy cubes? ====
Try [http://www.rubikfans.com: Rubikfans], [http://www.9spuzzles.com: 9spuzzles], [http://stores.shop.ebay.com/RubikFans-Shop__W0QQ_armrsZ1: RubikFans], [http://www.puzl.co.uk: puzl.co.uk ], [http://www.cube4you.com: Cube4You], [http://cubefans.com/: Cubefan's], or other places such as ebay. Generally, for American buyers, Cubefans's is more reliable than Cube4You (they are from the same owner). 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? ====
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".

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." 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

2009-06-19T15:45:34Z

Lord Voldemort: /* What is the best 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 your preferences. Most people choose cubes the DIY types A, C, D, F, Cube4you, or Edison cubes. Storebought cubes are also popular and can be decent after breaking in. Experiment, you'll find a good cube eventually. Many people like to use hybrids as well. For example, Erik Akkersdijk uses a hybrid with a core from Rubiks.com and type B cubies.

==== Where can I buy cubes? ====
Try [http://www.rubikfans.com: Rubikfans], [http://www.9spuzzles.com: 9spuzzles], [http://stores.shop.ebay.com/RubikFans-Shop__W0QQ_armrsZ1: RubikFans], [http://www.puzl.co.uk: puzl.co.uk ], [http://www.cube4you.com: Cube4You], [http://cubefans.com/: Cubefan's], or other places such as ebay. Generally, for American buyers, Cubefans's is more reliable than Cube4You (they are from the same owner). 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? ====
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

2009-06-19T15:45:10Z

Lord Voldemort: /* What is the best 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 your preferences. Most people choose cubes the DIY types A, C, D, F, Cube4you, or Edison cubes. Storebought cubes are also popular and can be decent after breaking in. 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. For example, Erik Akkersdijk uses a hybrid with a core from Rubiks.com and type B cubies.

==== Where can I buy cubes? ====
Try [http://www.rubikfans.com: Rubikfans], [http://www.9spuzzles.com: 9spuzzles], [http://stores.shop.ebay.com/RubikFans-Shop__W0QQ_armrsZ1: RubikFans], [http://www.puzl.co.uk: puzl.co.uk ], [http://www.cube4you.com: Cube4You], [http://cubefans.com/: Cubefan's], or other places such as ebay. Generally, for American buyers, Cubefans's is more reliable than Cube4You (they are from the same owner). 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? ====
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

2009-06-19T15:44:29Z

Lord Voldemort: /* 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 your preferences. Most people choose cubes the DIY types 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. For example, Erik Akkersdijk uses a hybrid with a core from Rubiks.com and type B cubies.

==== Where can I buy cubes? ====
Try [http://www.rubikfans.com: Rubikfans], [http://www.9spuzzles.com: 9spuzzles], [http://stores.shop.ebay.com/RubikFans-Shop__W0QQ_armrsZ1: RubikFans], [http://www.puzl.co.uk: puzl.co.uk ], [http://www.cube4you.com: Cube4You], [http://cubefans.com/: Cubefan's], or other places such as ebay. Generally, for American buyers, Cubefans's is more reliable than Cube4You (they are from the same owner). 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? ====
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

2009-06-19T15:43:51Z

Lord Voldemort: /* 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 your preferences. Most people choose cubes the DIY types 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. For example, Erik Akkersdijk uses a hybrid with a core from Rubiks.com and type B cubies.

==== Where can I buy cubes? ====
Try [http://www.rubikfans.com: Rubikfans], [http://www.9spuzzles.com: 9spuzzles], [http://stores.shop.ebay.com/RubikFans-Shop__W0QQ_armrsZ1: RubikFans], [http://www.puzl.co.uk: puzl.co.uk ], [http://www.cube4you.com: Cube4You], [http://cubefans.com/: Cubefan's], or other places such as ebay. Generally, for American buyers, Cubefans's is more reliable than Cube4You (they are from the same owner). 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 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

2009-06-19T15:43:09Z

Lord Voldemort: /* 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 your preferences. Most people choose cubes the DIY types 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. For example, Erik Akkersdijk uses a hybrid with a core from Rubiks.com and type B cubies.

==== Where can I buy cubes? ====
Try [http://www.rubikfans.com: Rubikfans], [http://www.9spuzzles.com: 9spuzzles], [http://stores.shop.ebay.com/RubikFans-Shop__W0QQ_armrsZ1: RubikFans], [http://www.puzl.co.uk: puzl.co.uk ], [http://www.cube4you.com: Cube4You], [http://cubefans.com/: Cubefan's], or other places such as ebay. Generally, for American buyers, Cubefans's is more reliable than Cube4You (they are from the same owner). 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 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

2009-06-19T15:40:14Z

Lord Voldemort: /* 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 preferences. Most people choose cubes the DIY types 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. For example, Erik Akkersdijk uses a hybrid with a core from Rubiks.com and type B cubies.

==== Where can I buy cubes? ====
Try [http://www.rubikfans.com: Rubikfans], [http://www.9spuzzles.com: 9spuzzles], [http://stores.shop.ebay.com/RubikFans-Shop__W0QQ_armrsZ1: RubikFans], [http://www.puzl.co.uk: puzl.co.uk ], [http://www.cube4you.com: Cube4You], [http://cubefans.com/: Cubefan's], or other places such as ebay. Generally, for American buyers, Cubefans's is more reliable than Cube4You (they are from the same owner). 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:
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

2009-06-19T15:38:40Z

Lord Voldemort: /* 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 preferences. Most people choose cubes the DIY types 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. For example, Erik Akkersdijk uses a hybrid with a core from Rubiks.com and type B cubies.

==== Where can I buy cubes? ====
Try [http://www.rubikfans.com: Rubikfans], [http://www.9spuzzles.com: 9spuzzles], [http://www.rubikefans.com], [http://www.puzl.co.uk: puzl.co.uk ], [http://www.cube4you.com: Cube4You], [http://cubefans.com/: Cubefan's], or other places such as ebay. Generally, for American buyers, Cubefans's is more reliable than Cube4You (they are from the same owner). 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:
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

2009-06-19T15:27:49Z

Lord Voldemort: /* What is the best 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 your preferences. Most people choose cubes the DIY types 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. For example, 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

2009-06-19T01:08:31Z

Lord Voldemort: /* Where can I find a scramble generator? */

== 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, e, f or the cube4you cube. Look out for those because those tend to be the favorites of people. Experiment, you'll find a good cube eventually.

==== 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.

=== Timers ===
==== Where can I buy a timer like they use in competition? ====
Speedstacks [http://www.speedstacks.com] or Ebay [http://www.ebay.com] are the best places to buy. Speedstacks is probably ht e 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.

==== 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 WCA site of course.
http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/regulations/

=== Methods ===
==== What is the fastest method? ====
There is no "ultimate method." However, many people like to use methods like the Fridrich, Roux, or Petrus. The most popular of them all is Fridrich and the world record holder uses Fridrich himself, though that is not saying Fridrich is the fastest.

==== What is the easiest method? ====
The easiest method to learn is most likely going to be the beginners 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? ====
Blockbuilding methods like the Petrus method or the Roux method tend to be the most efficient ones with moves.

However, it's not impossible to be able to be move efficient with Fridrich if you plan it out well, though that defeats the idea of Fridrich since it is meant for speed, not complete move efficiency.

==== 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. However, alg f2l tends to have a smaller move count unless you multislot/make use of empty slots while using intuitive f2l.

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

If you haven't, try learning an advance method, since that should help you lower your times considerably.

Work on lowering your move count and experiment with tricks.

Learn algs.

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

FAQ

2009-06-19T01:06:45Z

Lord Voldemort: /* Where can I find a scramble generator? */

== 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, e, f or the cube4you cube. Look out for those because those tend to be the favorites of people. Experiment, you'll find a good cube eventually.

==== 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.

=== Timers ===
==== Where can I buy a timer like they use in competition? ====
Speedstacks [http://www.speedstacks.com] or Ebay [http://www.ebay.com] are the best places to buy. Speedstacks is probably ht e 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.

==== 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 this page [http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/regulations/#scrambling] to find a scramble generator for your puzzle.

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

=== Methods ===
==== What is the fastest method? ====
There is no "ultimate method." However, many people like to use methods like the Fridrich, Roux, or Petrus. The most popular of them all is Fridrich and the world record holder uses Fridrich himself, though that is not saying Fridrich is the fastest.

==== What is the easiest method? ====
The easiest method to learn is most likely going to be the beginners 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? ====
Blockbuilding methods like the Petrus method or the Roux method tend to be the most efficient ones with moves.

However, it's not impossible to be able to be move efficient with Fridrich if you plan it out well, though that defeats the idea of Fridrich since it is meant for speed, not complete move efficiency.

==== 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. However, alg f2l tends to have a smaller move count unless you multislot/make use of empty slots while using intuitive f2l.

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

If you haven't, try learning an advance method, since that should help you lower your times considerably.

Work on lowering your move count and experiment with tricks.

Learn algs.

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

FAQ

2009-06-19T01:06:05Z

Lord Voldemort: /* Where can I find a scramble generator? */

== 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, e, f or the cube4you cube. Look out for those because those tend to be the favorites of people. Experiment, you'll find a good cube eventually.

==== 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.

=== Timers ===
==== Where can I buy a timer like they use in competition? ====
Speedstacks [http://www.speedstacks.com] or Ebay [http://www.ebay.com] are the best places to buy. Speedstacks is probably ht e 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.

==== 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 this page [http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/regulations/#scrambling] to find a scrambles for your puzzle

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

=== Methods ===
==== What is the fastest method? ====
There is no "ultimate method." However, many people like to use methods like the Fridrich, Roux, or Petrus. The most popular of them all is Fridrich and the world record holder uses Fridrich himself, though that is not saying Fridrich is the fastest.

==== What is the easiest method? ====
The easiest method to learn is most likely going to be the beginners 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? ====
Blockbuilding methods like the Petrus method or the Roux method tend to be the most efficient ones with moves.

However, it's not impossible to be able to be move efficient with Fridrich if you plan it out well, though that defeats the idea of Fridrich since it is meant for speed, not complete move efficiency.

==== 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. However, alg f2l tends to have a smaller move count unless you multislot/make use of empty slots while using intuitive f2l.

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

If you haven't, try learning an advance method, since that should help you lower your times considerably.

Work on lowering your move count and experiment with tricks.

Learn algs.

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

FAQ

2009-06-19T01:05:47Z

Lord Voldemort: /* Where can I find a scramble generator? */

== 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, e, f or the cube4you cube. Look out for those because those tend to be the favorites of people. Experiment, you'll find a good cube eventually.

==== 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.

=== Timers ===
==== Where can I buy a timer like they use in competition? ====
Speedstacks [http://www.speedstacks.com] or Ebay [http://www.ebay.com] are the best places to buy. Speedstacks is probably ht e 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.

==== 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 this page [http://www.worldcubeassociation.org]/regulations/#scrambling to find a scrambles for your puzzle

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

=== Methods ===
==== What is the fastest method? ====
There is no "ultimate method." However, many people like to use methods like the Fridrich, Roux, or Petrus. The most popular of them all is Fridrich and the world record holder uses Fridrich himself, though that is not saying Fridrich is the fastest.

==== What is the easiest method? ====
The easiest method to learn is most likely going to be the beginners 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? ====
Blockbuilding methods like the Petrus method or the Roux method tend to be the most efficient ones with moves.

However, it's not impossible to be able to be move efficient with Fridrich if you plan it out well, though that defeats the idea of Fridrich since it is meant for speed, not complete move efficiency.

==== 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. However, alg f2l tends to have a smaller move count unless you multislot/make use of empty slots while using intuitive f2l.

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

If you haven't, try learning an advance method, since that should help you lower your times considerably.

Work on lowering your move count and experiment with tricks.

Learn algs.

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

FAQ

2009-06-19T01:05:14Z

Lord Voldemort: /* Where can I find a scramble generator? */

== 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, e, f or the cube4you cube. Look out for those because those tend to be the favorites of people. Experiment, you'll find a good cube eventually.

==== 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.

=== Timers ===
==== Where can I buy a timer like they use in competition? ====
Speedstacks [http://www.speedstacks.com] or Ebay [http://www.ebay.com] are the best places to buy. Speedstacks is probably ht e 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.

==== 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 this page:http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/regulations/#scrambling to find a scrambles for your puzzle

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

=== Methods ===
==== What is the fastest method? ====
There is no "ultimate method." However, many people like to use methods like the Fridrich, Roux, or Petrus. The most popular of them all is Fridrich and the world record holder uses Fridrich himself, though that is not saying Fridrich is the fastest.

==== What is the easiest method? ====
The easiest method to learn is most likely going to be the beginners 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? ====
Blockbuilding methods like the Petrus method or the Roux method tend to be the most efficient ones with moves.

However, it's not impossible to be able to be move efficient with Fridrich if you plan it out well, though that defeats the idea of Fridrich since it is meant for speed, not complete move efficiency.

==== 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. However, alg f2l tends to have a smaller move count unless you multislot/make use of empty slots while using intuitive f2l.

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

If you haven't, try learning an advance method, since that should help you lower your times considerably.

Work on lowering your move count and experiment with tricks.

Learn algs.

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

FAQ

2009-06-19T01:02:52Z

Lord Voldemort: /* Where can I find a scramble generator? */

Rubik's Cube Fact sheet

2009-06-10T21:42:33Z

Lord Voldemort: /* 3x3x3 Rubik's Cube facts */

== 3x3x3 Rubik's Cube facts ==
Here are some 3x3x3 Rubik's cube facts:
* It was originally known as the Magic Cube.
* It was invented by Ernö Rubik of Hungary in 1974, first patented in 1975, and first released in 1977.
* Over 300 million Rubik's Cubes and imitation cubes have been sold worldwide, making it the best-selling toy ever.
* There are 43,252,003,274,489,856,000 ways a cube can be scrambled - that's 12! * 8! * 2^10 * 3^7, 4.3 * 10^19 or 43 quintillion positions! To give you an idea of how big that number is, if there were one cube scrambled for every legal position, they would cover the surface of the earth about 150 times!
* The number of unsolved configurations on a Rubik's cube is a prime number.
* A normal cube has 21 pieces, consisting of one core, 8 corners, and 12 edges, and a total of 54 stickers.
* There exist computer optimal solvers of the Rubik's Cube, and all checked positions have had a solution of 20 moves or fewer, with a small number of positions (such as the [[superflip]]) having an optimal solution of 20 moves. Tom Rokicki has proved that all positions can be solved in 22 or fewer moves, so it is unknown what the exact upper bound is.
* The first official World Record for solving the Rubik's Cube was 22.95 seconds by [http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/results/p.php?i=1982THAI01 Minh Thai]; the current single solve record is 7.08 seconds by [http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/results/p.php?i=2005AKKE01 Erik Akkersdijk], and the average of 5 record is 10.63 seconds by [http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/results/p.php?i=2005ZOLN01 Tomasz Zolnowski].

== 2x2x2 Cube facts ==
Here are some 2x2x2 Cube facts:
* The official name for this cube is the Pocket Cube or Mini Cube.
* Rubik patented the design for this cube in 1983.
* There are 7! * 3^6 or 3,674,160 positions to this cube. It is equivalent to solving only the corners of the Rubik's Cube.
* A 2x2x2 cube has just 8 pieces, all corner pieces, and a total of 24 tiles. Most mechanisms have a number of hidden internal pieces as well.
* The 2x2x2 cube can always be solved in 11 moves or fewer.
* The current single solve World Record is 0.96 seconds by [http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/results/p.php?i=2005AKKE01 Erik Akkersdijk], and the average of 5 record is 3.28 seconds by [http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/results/p.php?i=2004CHAM01 Edouard Chambon].

== 4x4x4 Cube facts ==
Here are some 4x4x4 Cube facts:
* The official name for this cube is Rubik's Revenge, although it was invented not by Rubik but by Péter Sebestény.
* The 4x4x4 has 7! * 3^6 * (24!)^2 / (4!)^6 positions. This is about 7.4 * 10^45.
* There are 56 pieces on this cube: 8 corner pieces, 24 edge pieces, and 24 center pieces. There are also some number of hidden internal pieces, depending on the brand. The 4x4x4 cube has a total of 96 stickers.
* It is unknown how many moves are required to solve a 4x4x4 cube, but it has been proven to be at least 31.
* The 4x4x4 supercube, the cube where all center pieces are distinguishable, is the only n x n x n supercube where the permutation of the edge pieces is completely independent of the rest of the cube.
* The current single solve record is 40.05 seconds by [http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/results/p.php?i=2005AKKE01 Erik Akkersdijk], and the average of 5 record is 47.94 seconds by [http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/results/p.php?i=2005AKKE01 Erik Akkersdijk].

== 5x5x5 Cube facts ==
Here are some 5x5x5 Cube facts:
* The official name for this cube is the Professor's Cube, and it was invented not by Rubik but by Udo Krell.
* The 5x5x5 has 12! * 8! * 2^10 * 3^7 * (24!)^3 / (4!)^12 positions. This is about 2.83 * 10^74.
* There are 99 pieces on this cube: one core, 8 corners, 36 edges, and 54 centers. There are also a total of 150 stickers.
* It is unknown how many moves are required to solve a 5x5x5 cube, but it has been proven to be at least 50.
* The current single solve record is 1 minute 13.28 seconds by [http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/results/p.php?i=2008CHAN09 Hsuan Chang], and the average of 5 record is 1 minute 16.75 seconds by [http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/results/p.php?i=2007COHE01 Dan Cohen].

OLL

2009-05-27T23:36:03Z

Lord Voldemort: /* OLL 46 */

__NOTOC__
OLL is the [[Orientation]] of the [[Last Layer]], and is the first step in solving the last layer in many speedsolving methods.

Parentheses in an algorithm signify the triggers of the algorithm. For example, [(R U R') (L' U L)] shows two triggers in the algorithm, even though it is the same as [R U R' L' U L].

The areas shaded in gray represent the oriented pieces on the top layer. You can tell if a piece is oriented by looking at the top color of the piece in relation to the top center of the cube. If the piece is oriented, the two colors will be the same.

The bars sticking off to the side of an unshaded piece represent where the [[sticker]] that needs to be on top is.

==All edges flipped correctly==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 21 ===
[[Image:o21.gif]]

* R U R' U R U' R' U R U2 R'
* y R U2 R' U' R U R' U' R U' R'
* y F (R U R' U') (R U R' U') (R U R' U') F'

=== OLL 22 ===
[[Image:o22.gif]]

* R U2 R2' U' R2 U' R2' U2 R
* f (R U R' U') f' F (R U R' U') F'
* y2 L' U2 L2 U L2 U L2 U2 L'
* R U2 R2 U' R' U R U' R U' R' y M' U2 M
* R' U L U' R U' L' U' L U' L'
* y2 L U' R' U L' U R U R' U R
* y2 L' U R U' L U' R' U' R U' R'
* R U' L' U R' U L U L' U L

=== OLL 23 ===
[[Image:o23.gif]]

* R2 D' R U2 R' D R U2 R
* R' U2 R F U' R' U' R U F'
* l2 U' R D2 R' U R D2 R
* l2' U' z' U R2 U' L U R2 z' L
* y' R U R' U' (R U' R' U2)(R U' R' U2) R U R'
* y2 R' F2 R U2 R U2 R' F2 R U2 R'
* y2 R2 D R' U2 R D' R' U2 R'
* (R' U' R U) R' U2 R2 U (R' U R U2 R)

=== OLL 24 ===
[[Image:o24.gif]]

* r U R' U' L' U R U' x'
* r U R' U' r' F R F'
* y' F R' F' R U R U' R'
* y' R U R2' U' R2 U' R2' U2' R U' R U' R'
* y' R U' R' (U2 R U R') (U2 R U R') (U R U' R')
* y2 R' F' r U R U' r' F
* y2 l' U' L U R U' r' F

||

=== OLL 25 ===
[[Image:o25.gif]]

* y' F' r U R' U' r' F R
* y' x U R' U' L U R U' r'
* y R' F' L' F R F' L F
* y R' U' (R U R' F') (R U R' U') (R' F R2)
* y2 R U2' R D R' U2 R D' R2'
* y2 F R' F' r U R U' r'
* y2 l' U R D' R' U' R D x'
* y2 x' L' U' R' U L U' R U
* x' D R U R' D' R U' l'
* x' U L' U' R U L U' l'
* l' U' L' U R U' L U x'
* U r U R U' L' U R' U' x'
* R U2 R' U' R U R' U' R U R' U' R U' R'
* R U R' U R U' R' U R U' R' U R U2 R'

=== OLL 26 ===
[[Image:o26.gif]]

* y2 R' U' R U' R' U2 R
* y' R U2 R' U' R U' R'
* L U2 L' U' L U' L'
* L' U' L U' L' U2 L
* L' U R U' L U R'

=== OLL 27 ===
[[Image:o27.gif]]

* R U R' U R U2 R'
* y' R' U2 R U R' U R
* y L' U2 L U L' UL
* y2 L U L' U L U2 L'
* R U' L' U R' U' L

|}

==No edges flipped correctly==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 1 ===
[[Image:o1.gif]]

* (R U2) (R2' F R F' U2') (R' F R F')
* R U B' R B R2 U' R' F R F'

=== OLL 2 ===
[[Image:o2.gif]]

* F (R U R' U') F' f (R U R' U') f'

=== OLL 3 ===
[[Image:o3.gif]]

* y f (R U R' U') f' U' F (R U R' U') F'
* y2 r' R2 U R' U r U2 r' U R' r

=== OLL 4 ===
[[Image:o4.gif]]

* f (R U R' U') f' U F (R U R' U') F'
* R' U2 x R' U R U' y R' U' R' U R' F
* y r' R U' r U2 r' U' R U' R2' r

||

=== OLL 17 ===
[[Image:o17.gif]]

* R U R' U R' F R F' U2 R' F R F'

=== OLL 18 ===
[[Image:o18.gif]]

* y' r U R' U R U2 r2' U' R U' R' U2 r
* y2 F R U R' d R' U2 R' F R F'
* R U2 R2 F R F' U2 M' U R U' r'

=== OLL 19 ===
[[Image:o19.gif]]

* r' U2 R U R' U r2 U2' R' U' R U' r'
* R' U2 F R U R' U' y' R2 U2 R B
* r' R U R U R' U' r R2' F R F'

=== OLL 20 ===
[[Image:o20.gif]]

* r' R U R U R' U' r2 R2' U R U' r'
* M U R U R' U' M2 U R U' r'
* M' U2 M' U2 M' U M U2 M U2 M
* M' U2 M U2 M' U M U2 M' U2 M
* M d r2 U M' U2 M U r2 S'
* M' U M' U M' U M' U M U M U M U M U
* (r U R' U') M2 (U R U' R') U' M'
|}

=="P" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 31 ===
[[Image:o31.gif]]

* L' d' R d L U' L' B' L
* S' L' U' L U L F' L' f
* y x U R' U' l U R U R' U' R U' R'
* y2 R' U' F U R U' R' F' R
* L' U' B U L U' L' B' L

=== OLL 32 ===
[[Image:o32.gif]]

* R d L' d' R' U R B R'
* S R U R' U' R' F R f'
* y x' U' R U l' U' R' U' R U R' U R
* R U B' U' R' U R B R'
* y2 F U R U' F' r U R' U' r'

||

=== OLL 43 ===
[[Image:o43.gif]]

* f' L' U' L U f
* B' U' R' U R B
* y2 F' U' L' U L F
* U R U R' F' L' U' L F

=== OLL 44 ===
[[Image:o44.gif]]

* f R U R' U' f'
* y2 F U R U' R' F'
* y R U y' L U' L' B'

|}

=="W" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 36 ===
[[Image:o36.gif]]

* R' U' R U' R' U R U R B' R' B
* y2 (L' U' L U') (L' U L U) (L F' L' F)
||

=== OLL 38 ===
[[Image:o38.gif]]

* L U L' U L U' L' U' L' B L B'
* y2 R U R' U R U' R' U' R' F R F'

|}

=="L" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 53 ===
[[Image:o53.gif]]

* l' U' L U' L' U L U' L' U2 l
* y2 r' U' R U' R' U R U' R' U2 r
* y' r' U2 R U R' U' R U R' U r

=== OLL 54 ===
[[Image:o54.gif]]

* r U R' U R U' R' U R U2 r'
* y' r U2 R' U' R U R' U' R U' r'

=== OLL 50 ===
[[Image:o50.gif]]

* y2 R' F R2 B' R2 F' R2 B R'
* r' U r2 U' r2' U' r2 U r'
* R B' R B R2' U2 F R' F' R
* y2 l' U l2 U' l2 U' l2 U l'
* r' U2 R2' U R2 U rR U2 R'
* y' [R U2 R' U' R U' R'] [F R U R' U' F']
||

=== OLL 47 ===
[[Image:o47.gif]]

* F' L' U' L U L' U' L U F
* R' U' x R' U R U' R' U R U' x' U R
* b' U' R' U R U' R' U R b

=== OLL 48 ===
[[Image:o48.gif]]

* F R U R' U' R U R' U' F'
* y2 f U R U' R' U R U' R' f'

=== OLL 49 ===
[[Image:o49.gif]]

* R B' R2 F R2 B R2 F' R
* l U' l2' U l2 U l2' U' l
* y2 r U' r2 U r2 U r2 U' r
* y2 R' F R' F' R2 d2 y' R' F R F'
* y2 r U2 R2' U' R2 U' r'R' U2 R

|}

=="C" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 34 ===
[[Image:o34.gif]]

* R U R' U' x D' R' U R E'
* R U R' d' l' U' L U r' R
* y2 F R U R' U' R' F' r U R U' r'
||

=== OLL 46 ===
[[Image:o46.gif]]

* R' U' R' F R F' U R
* R' U' l' U l F' U R
* R U l U' R' U F' l'
* y2 L F U' R U R' F' L'
* R U R'2 U' R' F R U R U' F

|}

=="T" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 33 ===
[[Image:o33.gif]]

* R U R' U' R' F R F'

||

=== OLL 45 ===
[[Image:o45.gif]]

* F R U R' U' F'

|}

=="I" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 55 ===
[[Image:o55.gif]]

* R U2 R2 U' R U' R' U2 F R F'
** A 4x4x4 special: Note: Rra = (R + r) + (L + l)
::(y) Rr U2 Rra' U2 Rr U2 Rr' U2 Rra U2 Rr'
*R' F R U R' F R U' R' F' R U M' U' M
*L F' L' U' L F' L' U L F L' U' M' U M
*(L F' L' U' L F' L' U L F L' U' L)(R' F R) L'

=== OLL 56 ===
[[Image:o56.gif]]

* R B R' U L U' L' U L U' L' R B' R'
* r' U' r U' R' U R U' R' U R r' U r
* F R U R' U' R F' r U R' U' r'

||

=== OLL 51 ===
[[Image:o51.gif]]

* F U R U' R' U R U' R' F'
* y2 f R U R' U' R U R' U' f'

=== OLL 52 ===
[[Image:o52.gif]]

* R' U' R U' R' d R' U R B
* R U R' U R d' R U' R' F'

|}

==Square shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 5 ===
[[Image:o5.gif]]

* (r' U2) (R U R' U r)

||

=== OLL 6 ===
[[Image:o6.gif]]

* y2 (r U2) (R' U' R U') r'
* l U2 L' U' L U' l'
|}

==Big lightning bolt shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 39 ===
[[Image:o39.gif]]

* L F' L' U' L U F U' L'
* y2 f' L F L' U' L' U L S
* y2 R B' R' U' R U B U' R'

||

=== OLL 40 ===
[[Image:o40.gif]]

* R' F R U R' U' F' U R
* y2 f R' F' R U R U' R' S'
* y2 L' B L U L' U' B' U L

|}

==Small lightning bolt shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 7 ===
[[Image:o7.gif]]

* (r U R' U) (R U2 r')

=== OLL 8 ===
[[Image:o8.gif]]

* y2 r' U' R U' R' U2 r
* R U2 R' U2 R' F R F'

||

=== OLL 11 ===
[[Image:o11.gif]]

* r' R2 U R' U R U2 R' U r R'
* y2 r U R' U R' F R F' R U2 r'

=== OLL 12 ===
[[Image:o12.gif]]

* F R U R' U' F' y F R U R' U' F'
* y F R U R2 F R y' R2 U R U2 R'
* y' r R2 U' R U' R' U2 R U' R r'

|}

==Fish shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 9 ===
[[Image:o9.gif]]

* y' R' U' R y' x' R U' R' F R U R' x
* y' R U R' U' R' F R2 U R' U' F'

=== OLL 10 ===
[[Image:o10.gif]]

* y' R U R' y R' F R U' R' F' R

* y' R' U' R U R B' R2 U' R U B
||

=== OLL 35 ===
[[Image:o35.gif]]

* R U2 R2' F R F' R U2 R'

=== OLL 37 ===
[[Image:o37.gif]]

* x' U' R U l' U' R' U R
* l U' R' U y' R U R' U' z'
* y F R U' R' U' R U R' F'
* y R' F R F' U' F' U F
* R B' R' B U B U' B'

|}

==Knight move shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 13 ===
[[Image:o13.gif]]

* F U R U' R2 F' R U R U' R'
* y2 x' R U' R' F' R U R' x y R' U R
* y2 f R U R2 U' R' U R U' f'
* r U' r' U' r U r' y' R' U R

=== OLL 14 ===
[[Image:o14.gif]]

* R' F R U R' F' R y' R U' R'
* y' R' U' y' R' U R2 B R' U' R' U R
* y2 B' U' R' U R2 B R' U' R' U R
||

=== OLL 15 ===
[[Image:o15.gif]]

* y2 R' F' R L' U' L U R' F R
* r' U' r R' U' R U r' U r

=== OLL 16 ===
[[Image:o16.gif]]

* y2 r U r' R U R' U' r U' r'
* y2 r U M U R' U' r U' r'

|}

==Awkward shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 29 ===
[[Image:o29.gif]]

* y2 R' F R F' R U2 R' d' L' U' L
* y2 R2' U' R F R' U R2' U' R' F' R
* y (R U R' U') (R U' R' F') U' (F R U R')
* y R' U2 R2 U R' U' R' U2 F R F'
* M U (R U R' U') (R' F R F') M'

=== OLL 30 ===
[[Image:o30.gif]]

* l U' R' U l' U2 d L U L'
* f R U R2 U' R' U R2 U' R' f'
* y2 F U R U' x' U R' D' R U' R'
* R2' U R' B' R U' R2' U R B R'

||

=== OLL 41 ===
[[Image:o41.gif]]

* R U' R' U2 R U y R U' R' U' F'
* y R U2' R' U' R U' R2 (y) L' U' L U F
* y2 F U R U' R' F' R' U2 R U R' U R
* y2 R U R' U R U2 R' F R U R' U' F'
* y2 R2 L z' l' U' R d L U' L l'

=== OLL 42 ===
[[Image:o42.gif]]

* L' U L U2 L' U' y' L' U L U F
* y R' U2 R U R' U R2 y R U R' U' F'
* y R' F R F' R' F R F' R U R' U' R U R'
* y2 L2 R' z r U L' d' R' U R' r

|}

==All Corners Oriented==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 28 ===
[[Image:o28.gif]]

* r U R' U' r' R U R U' R'
* F R U R' U' F' U2 F R U R' U' F'
* y2 M' U M U2 M' U M
* M U M' U2 M U M'

||

=== OLL 57 ===
[[Image:o57.gif]]

* R U R' U' r R' U R U' r'
* (x') M' U' R U M U' R' U (x)
* M U M U M U2 M' U M' U M' U2
* y M' U M' U M' U M' U M' U' M' U' M' U' M' U'

|}

[[Category:3x3x3 methods]]
[[Category:Cubing abbreviations and acronyms]]
[[Category:Algorithms]]

OLL

2009-05-27T23:32:38Z

Lord Voldemort: /* OLL 36 */

__NOTOC__
OLL is the [[Orientation]] of the [[Last Layer]], and is the first step in solving the last layer in many speedsolving methods.

Parentheses in an algorithm signify the triggers of the algorithm. For example, [(R U R') (L' U L)] shows two triggers in the algorithm, even though it is the same as [R U R' L' U L].

The areas shaded in gray represent the oriented pieces on the top layer. You can tell if a piece is oriented by looking at the top color of the piece in relation to the top center of the cube. If the piece is oriented, the two colors will be the same.

The bars sticking off to the side of an unshaded piece represent where the [[sticker]] that needs to be on top is.

==All edges flipped correctly==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 21 ===
[[Image:o21.gif]]

* R U R' U R U' R' U R U2 R'
* y R U2 R' U' R U R' U' R U' R'
* y F (R U R' U') (R U R' U') (R U R' U') F'

=== OLL 22 ===
[[Image:o22.gif]]

* R U2 R2' U' R2 U' R2' U2 R
* f (R U R' U') f' F (R U R' U') F'
* y2 L' U2 L2 U L2 U L2 U2 L'
* R U2 R2 U' R' U R U' R U' R' y M' U2 M
* R' U L U' R U' L' U' L U' L'
* y2 L U' R' U L' U R U R' U R
* y2 L' U R U' L U' R' U' R U' R'
* R U' L' U R' U L U L' U L

=== OLL 23 ===
[[Image:o23.gif]]

* R2 D' R U2 R' D R U2 R
* R' U2 R F U' R' U' R U F'
* l2 U' R D2 R' U R D2 R
* l2' U' z' U R2 U' L U R2 z' L
* y' R U R' U' (R U' R' U2)(R U' R' U2) R U R'
* y2 R' F2 R U2 R U2 R' F2 R U2 R'
* y2 R2 D R' U2 R D' R' U2 R'
* (R' U' R U) R' U2 R2 U (R' U R U2 R)

=== OLL 24 ===
[[Image:o24.gif]]

* r U R' U' L' U R U' x'
* r U R' U' r' F R F'
* y' F R' F' R U R U' R'
* y' R U R2' U' R2 U' R2' U2' R U' R U' R'
* y' R U' R' (U2 R U R') (U2 R U R') (U R U' R')
* y2 R' F' r U R U' r' F
* y2 l' U' L U R U' r' F

||

=== OLL 25 ===
[[Image:o25.gif]]

* y' F' r U R' U' r' F R
* y' x U R' U' L U R U' r'
* y R' F' L' F R F' L F
* y R' U' (R U R' F') (R U R' U') (R' F R2)
* y2 R U2' R D R' U2 R D' R2'
* y2 F R' F' r U R U' r'
* y2 l' U R D' R' U' R D x'
* y2 x' L' U' R' U L U' R U
* x' D R U R' D' R U' l'
* x' U L' U' R U L U' l'
* l' U' L' U R U' L U x'
* U r U R U' L' U R' U' x'
* R U2 R' U' R U R' U' R U R' U' R U' R'
* R U R' U R U' R' U R U' R' U R U2 R'

=== OLL 26 ===
[[Image:o26.gif]]

* y2 R' U' R U' R' U2 R
* y' R U2 R' U' R U' R'
* L U2 L' U' L U' L'
* L' U' L U' L' U2 L
* L' U R U' L U R'

=== OLL 27 ===
[[Image:o27.gif]]

* R U R' U R U2 R'
* y' R' U2 R U R' U R
* y L' U2 L U L' UL
* y2 L U L' U L U2 L'
* R U' L' U R' U' L

|}

==No edges flipped correctly==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 1 ===
[[Image:o1.gif]]

* (R U2) (R2' F R F' U2') (R' F R F')
* R U B' R B R2 U' R' F R F'

=== OLL 2 ===
[[Image:o2.gif]]

* F (R U R' U') F' f (R U R' U') f'

=== OLL 3 ===
[[Image:o3.gif]]

* y f (R U R' U') f' U' F (R U R' U') F'
* y2 r' R2 U R' U r U2 r' U R' r

=== OLL 4 ===
[[Image:o4.gif]]

* f (R U R' U') f' U F (R U R' U') F'
* R' U2 x R' U R U' y R' U' R' U R' F
* y r' R U' r U2 r' U' R U' R2' r

||

=== OLL 17 ===
[[Image:o17.gif]]

* R U R' U R' F R F' U2 R' F R F'

=== OLL 18 ===
[[Image:o18.gif]]

* y' r U R' U R U2 r2' U' R U' R' U2 r
* y2 F R U R' d R' U2 R' F R F'
* R U2 R2 F R F' U2 M' U R U' r'

=== OLL 19 ===
[[Image:o19.gif]]

* r' U2 R U R' U r2 U2' R' U' R U' r'
* R' U2 F R U R' U' y' R2 U2 R B
* r' R U R U R' U' r R2' F R F'

=== OLL 20 ===
[[Image:o20.gif]]

* r' R U R U R' U' r2 R2' U R U' r'
* M U R U R' U' M2 U R U' r'
* M' U2 M' U2 M' U M U2 M U2 M
* M' U2 M U2 M' U M U2 M' U2 M
* M d r2 U M' U2 M U r2 S'
* M' U M' U M' U M' U M U M U M U M U
* (r U R' U') M2 (U R U' R') U' M'
|}

=="P" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 31 ===
[[Image:o31.gif]]

* L' d' R d L U' L' B' L
* S' L' U' L U L F' L' f
* y x U R' U' l U R U R' U' R U' R'
* y2 R' U' F U R U' R' F' R
* L' U' B U L U' L' B' L

=== OLL 32 ===
[[Image:o32.gif]]

* R d L' d' R' U R B R'
* S R U R' U' R' F R f'
* y x' U' R U l' U' R' U' R U R' U R
* R U B' U' R' U R B R'
* y2 F U R U' F' r U R' U' r'

||

=== OLL 43 ===
[[Image:o43.gif]]

* f' L' U' L U f
* B' U' R' U R B
* y2 F' U' L' U L F
* U R U R' F' L' U' L F

=== OLL 44 ===
[[Image:o44.gif]]

* f R U R' U' f'
* y2 F U R U' R' F'
* y R U y' L U' L' B'

|}

=="W" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 36 ===
[[Image:o36.gif]]

* R' U' R U' R' U R U R B' R' B
* y2 (L' U' L U') (L' U L U) (L F' L' F)
||

=== OLL 38 ===
[[Image:o38.gif]]

* L U L' U L U' L' U' L' B L B'
* y2 R U R' U R U' R' U' R' F R F'

|}

=="L" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 53 ===
[[Image:o53.gif]]

* l' U' L U' L' U L U' L' U2 l
* y2 r' U' R U' R' U R U' R' U2 r
* y' r' U2 R U R' U' R U R' U r

=== OLL 54 ===
[[Image:o54.gif]]

* r U R' U R U' R' U R U2 r'
* y' r U2 R' U' R U R' U' R U' r'

=== OLL 50 ===
[[Image:o50.gif]]

* y2 R' F R2 B' R2 F' R2 B R'
* r' U r2 U' r2' U' r2 U r'
* R B' R B R2' U2 F R' F' R
* y2 l' U l2 U' l2 U' l2 U l'
* r' U2 R2' U R2 U rR U2 R'
* y' [R U2 R' U' R U' R'] [F R U R' U' F']
||

=== OLL 47 ===
[[Image:o47.gif]]

* F' L' U' L U L' U' L U F
* R' U' x R' U R U' R' U R U' x' U R
* b' U' R' U R U' R' U R b

=== OLL 48 ===
[[Image:o48.gif]]

* F R U R' U' R U R' U' F'
* y2 f U R U' R' U R U' R' f'

=== OLL 49 ===
[[Image:o49.gif]]

* R B' R2 F R2 B R2 F' R
* l U' l2' U l2 U l2' U' l
* y2 r U' r2 U r2 U r2 U' r
* y2 R' F R' F' R2 d2 y' R' F R F'
* y2 r U2 R2' U' R2 U' r'R' U2 R

|}

=="C" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 34 ===
[[Image:o34.gif]]

* R U R' U' x D' R' U R E'
* R U R' d' l' U' L U r' R
* y2 F R U R' U' R' F' r U R U' r'
||

=== OLL 46 ===
[[Image:o46.gif]]

* R' U' R' F R F' U R
* R' U' l' U l F' U R
* R U l U' R' U F' l'
* y2 L F U' R U R' F' L'

|}

=="T" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 33 ===
[[Image:o33.gif]]

* R U R' U' R' F R F'

||

=== OLL 45 ===
[[Image:o45.gif]]

* F R U R' U' F'

|}

=="I" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 55 ===
[[Image:o55.gif]]

* R U2 R2 U' R U' R' U2 F R F'
** A 4x4x4 special: Note: Rra = (R + r) + (L + l)
::(y) Rr U2 Rra' U2 Rr U2 Rr' U2 Rra U2 Rr'
*R' F R U R' F R U' R' F' R U M' U' M
*L F' L' U' L F' L' U L F L' U' M' U M
*(L F' L' U' L F' L' U L F L' U' L)(R' F R) L'

=== OLL 56 ===
[[Image:o56.gif]]

* R B R' U L U' L' U L U' L' R B' R'
* r' U' r U' R' U R U' R' U R r' U r
* F R U R' U' R F' r U R' U' r'

||

=== OLL 51 ===
[[Image:o51.gif]]

* F U R U' R' U R U' R' F'
* y2 f R U R' U' R U R' U' f'

=== OLL 52 ===
[[Image:o52.gif]]

* R' U' R U' R' d R' U R B
* R U R' U R d' R U' R' F'

|}

==Square shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 5 ===
[[Image:o5.gif]]

* (r' U2) (R U R' U r)

||

=== OLL 6 ===
[[Image:o6.gif]]

* y2 (r U2) (R' U' R U') r'
* l U2 L' U' L U' l'
|}

==Big lightning bolt shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 39 ===
[[Image:o39.gif]]

* L F' L' U' L U F U' L'
* y2 f' L F L' U' L' U L S
* y2 R B' R' U' R U B U' R'

||

=== OLL 40 ===
[[Image:o40.gif]]

* R' F R U R' U' F' U R
* y2 f R' F' R U R U' R' S'
* y2 L' B L U L' U' B' U L

|}

==Small lightning bolt shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 7 ===
[[Image:o7.gif]]

* (r U R' U) (R U2 r')

=== OLL 8 ===
[[Image:o8.gif]]

* y2 r' U' R U' R' U2 r
* R U2 R' U2 R' F R F'

||

=== OLL 11 ===
[[Image:o11.gif]]

* r' R2 U R' U R U2 R' U r R'
* y2 r U R' U R' F R F' R U2 r'

=== OLL 12 ===
[[Image:o12.gif]]

* F R U R' U' F' y F R U R' U' F'
* y F R U R2 F R y' R2 U R U2 R'
* y' r R2 U' R U' R' U2 R U' R r'

|}

==Fish shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 9 ===
[[Image:o9.gif]]

* y' R' U' R y' x' R U' R' F R U R' x
* y' R U R' U' R' F R2 U R' U' F'

=== OLL 10 ===
[[Image:o10.gif]]

* y' R U R' y R' F R U' R' F' R

* y' R' U' R U R B' R2 U' R U B
||

=== OLL 35 ===
[[Image:o35.gif]]

* R U2 R2' F R F' R U2 R'

=== OLL 37 ===
[[Image:o37.gif]]

* x' U' R U l' U' R' U R
* l U' R' U y' R U R' U' z'
* y F R U' R' U' R U R' F'
* y R' F R F' U' F' U F
* R B' R' B U B U' B'

|}

==Knight move shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 13 ===
[[Image:o13.gif]]

* F U R U' R2 F' R U R U' R'
* y2 x' R U' R' F' R U R' x y R' U R
* y2 f R U R2 U' R' U R U' f'
* r U' r' U' r U r' y' R' U R

=== OLL 14 ===
[[Image:o14.gif]]

* R' F R U R' F' R y' R U' R'
* y' R' U' y' R' U R2 B R' U' R' U R
* y2 B' U' R' U R2 B R' U' R' U R
||

=== OLL 15 ===
[[Image:o15.gif]]

* y2 R' F' R L' U' L U R' F R
* r' U' r R' U' R U r' U r

=== OLL 16 ===
[[Image:o16.gif]]

* y2 r U r' R U R' U' r U' r'
* y2 r U M U R' U' r U' r'

|}

==Awkward shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 29 ===
[[Image:o29.gif]]

* y2 R' F R F' R U2 R' d' L' U' L
* y2 R2' U' R F R' U R2' U' R' F' R
* y (R U R' U') (R U' R' F') U' (F R U R')
* y R' U2 R2 U R' U' R' U2 F R F'
* M U (R U R' U') (R' F R F') M'

=== OLL 30 ===
[[Image:o30.gif]]

* l U' R' U l' U2 d L U L'
* f R U R2 U' R' U R2 U' R' f'
* y2 F U R U' x' U R' D' R U' R'
* R2' U R' B' R U' R2' U R B R'

||

=== OLL 41 ===
[[Image:o41.gif]]

* R U' R' U2 R U y R U' R' U' F'
* y R U2' R' U' R U' R2 (y) L' U' L U F
* y2 F U R U' R' F' R' U2 R U R' U R
* y2 R U R' U R U2 R' F R U R' U' F'
* y2 R2 L z' l' U' R d L U' L l'

=== OLL 42 ===
[[Image:o42.gif]]

* L' U L U2 L' U' y' L' U L U F
* y R' U2 R U R' U R2 y R U R' U' F'
* y R' F R F' R' F R F' R U R' U' R U R'
* y2 L2 R' z r U L' d' R' U R' r

|}

==All Corners Oriented==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 28 ===
[[Image:o28.gif]]

* r U R' U' r' R U R U' R'
* F R U R' U' F' U2 F R U R' U' F'
* y2 M' U M U2 M' U M
* M U M' U2 M U M'

||

=== OLL 57 ===
[[Image:o57.gif]]

* R U R' U' r R' U R U' r'
* (x') M' U' R U M U' R' U (x)
* M U M U M U2 M' U M' U M' U2
* y M' U M' U M' U M' U M' U' M' U' M' U' M' U'

|}

[[Category:3x3x3 methods]]
[[Category:Cubing abbreviations and acronyms]]
[[Category:Algorithms]]

OLL

2009-05-27T23:30:07Z

Lord Voldemort: /* OLL 20 */

__NOTOC__
OLL is the [[Orientation]] of the [[Last Layer]], and is the first step in solving the last layer in many speedsolving methods.

Parentheses in an algorithm signify the triggers of the algorithm. For example, [(R U R') (L' U L)] shows two triggers in the algorithm, even though it is the same as [R U R' L' U L].

The areas shaded in gray represent the oriented pieces on the top layer. You can tell if a piece is oriented by looking at the top color of the piece in relation to the top center of the cube. If the piece is oriented, the two colors will be the same.

The bars sticking off to the side of an unshaded piece represent where the [[sticker]] that needs to be on top is.

==All edges flipped correctly==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 21 ===
[[Image:o21.gif]]

* R U R' U R U' R' U R U2 R'
* y R U2 R' U' R U R' U' R U' R'
* y F (R U R' U') (R U R' U') (R U R' U') F'

=== OLL 22 ===
[[Image:o22.gif]]

* R U2 R2' U' R2 U' R2' U2 R
* f (R U R' U') f' F (R U R' U') F'
* y2 L' U2 L2 U L2 U L2 U2 L'
* R U2 R2 U' R' U R U' R U' R' y M' U2 M
* R' U L U' R U' L' U' L U' L'
* y2 L U' R' U L' U R U R' U R
* y2 L' U R U' L U' R' U' R U' R'
* R U' L' U R' U L U L' U L

=== OLL 23 ===
[[Image:o23.gif]]

* R2 D' R U2 R' D R U2 R
* R' U2 R F U' R' U' R U F'
* l2 U' R D2 R' U R D2 R
* l2' U' z' U R2 U' L U R2 z' L
* y' R U R' U' (R U' R' U2)(R U' R' U2) R U R'
* y2 R' F2 R U2 R U2 R' F2 R U2 R'
* y2 R2 D R' U2 R D' R' U2 R'
* (R' U' R U) R' U2 R2 U (R' U R U2 R)

=== OLL 24 ===
[[Image:o24.gif]]

* r U R' U' L' U R U' x'
* r U R' U' r' F R F'
* y' F R' F' R U R U' R'
* y' R U R2' U' R2 U' R2' U2' R U' R U' R'
* y' R U' R' (U2 R U R') (U2 R U R') (U R U' R')
* y2 R' F' r U R U' r' F
* y2 l' U' L U R U' r' F

||

=== OLL 25 ===
[[Image:o25.gif]]

* y' F' r U R' U' r' F R
* y' x U R' U' L U R U' r'
* y R' F' L' F R F' L F
* y R' U' (R U R' F') (R U R' U') (R' F R2)
* y2 R U2' R D R' U2 R D' R2'
* y2 F R' F' r U R U' r'
* y2 l' U R D' R' U' R D x'
* y2 x' L' U' R' U L U' R U
* x' D R U R' D' R U' l'
* x' U L' U' R U L U' l'
* l' U' L' U R U' L U x'
* U r U R U' L' U R' U' x'
* R U2 R' U' R U R' U' R U R' U' R U' R'
* R U R' U R U' R' U R U' R' U R U2 R'

=== OLL 26 ===
[[Image:o26.gif]]

* y2 R' U' R U' R' U2 R
* y' R U2 R' U' R U' R'
* L U2 L' U' L U' L'
* L' U' L U' L' U2 L
* L' U R U' L U R'

=== OLL 27 ===
[[Image:o27.gif]]

* R U R' U R U2 R'
* y' R' U2 R U R' U R
* y L' U2 L U L' UL
* y2 L U L' U L U2 L'
* R U' L' U R' U' L

|}

==No edges flipped correctly==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 1 ===
[[Image:o1.gif]]

* (R U2) (R2' F R F' U2') (R' F R F')
* R U B' R B R2 U' R' F R F'

=== OLL 2 ===
[[Image:o2.gif]]

* F (R U R' U') F' f (R U R' U') f'

=== OLL 3 ===
[[Image:o3.gif]]

* y f (R U R' U') f' U' F (R U R' U') F'
* y2 r' R2 U R' U r U2 r' U R' r

=== OLL 4 ===
[[Image:o4.gif]]

* f (R U R' U') f' U F (R U R' U') F'
* R' U2 x R' U R U' y R' U' R' U R' F
* y r' R U' r U2 r' U' R U' R2' r

||

=== OLL 17 ===
[[Image:o17.gif]]

* R U R' U R' F R F' U2 R' F R F'

=== OLL 18 ===
[[Image:o18.gif]]

* y' r U R' U R U2 r2' U' R U' R' U2 r
* y2 F R U R' d R' U2 R' F R F'
* R U2 R2 F R F' U2 M' U R U' r'

=== OLL 19 ===
[[Image:o19.gif]]

* r' U2 R U R' U r2 U2' R' U' R U' r'
* R' U2 F R U R' U' y' R2 U2 R B
* r' R U R U R' U' r R2' F R F'

=== OLL 20 ===
[[Image:o20.gif]]

* r' R U R U R' U' r2 R2' U R U' r'
* M U R U R' U' M2 U R U' r'
* M' U2 M' U2 M' U M U2 M U2 M
* M' U2 M U2 M' U M U2 M' U2 M
* M d r2 U M' U2 M U r2 S'
* M' U M' U M' U M' U M U M U M U M U
* (r U R' U') M2 (U R U' R') U' M'
|}

=="P" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 31 ===
[[Image:o31.gif]]

* L' d' R d L U' L' B' L
* S' L' U' L U L F' L' f
* y x U R' U' l U R U R' U' R U' R'
* y2 R' U' F U R U' R' F' R
* L' U' B U L U' L' B' L

=== OLL 32 ===
[[Image:o32.gif]]

* R d L' d' R' U R B R'
* S R U R' U' R' F R f'
* y x' U' R U l' U' R' U' R U R' U R
* R U B' U' R' U R B R'
* y2 F U R U' F' r U R' U' r'

||

=== OLL 43 ===
[[Image:o43.gif]]

* f' L' U' L U f
* B' U' R' U R B
* y2 F' U' L' U L F
* U R U R' F' L' U' L F

=== OLL 44 ===
[[Image:o44.gif]]

* f R U R' U' f'
* y2 F U R U' R' F'
* y R U y' L U' L' B'

|}

=="W" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 36 ===
[[Image:o36.gif]]

* R' U' R U' R' U R U R B' R' B

||

=== OLL 38 ===
[[Image:o38.gif]]

* L U L' U L U' L' U' L' B L B'
* y2 R U R' U R U' R' U' R' F R F'

|}

=="L" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 53 ===
[[Image:o53.gif]]

* l' U' L U' L' U L U' L' U2 l
* y2 r' U' R U' R' U R U' R' U2 r
* y' r' U2 R U R' U' R U R' U r

=== OLL 54 ===
[[Image:o54.gif]]

* r U R' U R U' R' U R U2 r'
* y' r U2 R' U' R U R' U' R U' r'

=== OLL 50 ===
[[Image:o50.gif]]

* y2 R' F R2 B' R2 F' R2 B R'
* r' U r2 U' r2' U' r2 U r'
* R B' R B R2' U2 F R' F' R
* y2 l' U l2 U' l2 U' l2 U l'
* r' U2 R2' U R2 U rR U2 R'
* y' [R U2 R' U' R U' R'] [F R U R' U' F']
||

=== OLL 47 ===
[[Image:o47.gif]]

* F' L' U' L U L' U' L U F
* R' U' x R' U R U' R' U R U' x' U R
* b' U' R' U R U' R' U R b

=== OLL 48 ===
[[Image:o48.gif]]

* F R U R' U' R U R' U' F'
* y2 f U R U' R' U R U' R' f'

=== OLL 49 ===
[[Image:o49.gif]]

* R B' R2 F R2 B R2 F' R
* l U' l2' U l2 U l2' U' l
* y2 r U' r2 U r2 U r2 U' r
* y2 R' F R' F' R2 d2 y' R' F R F'
* y2 r U2 R2' U' R2 U' r'R' U2 R

|}

=="C" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 34 ===
[[Image:o34.gif]]

* R U R' U' x D' R' U R E'
* R U R' d' l' U' L U r' R
* y2 F R U R' U' R' F' r U R U' r'
||

=== OLL 46 ===
[[Image:o46.gif]]

* R' U' R' F R F' U R
* R' U' l' U l F' U R
* R U l U' R' U F' l'
* y2 L F U' R U R' F' L'

|}

=="T" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 33 ===
[[Image:o33.gif]]

* R U R' U' R' F R F'

||

=== OLL 45 ===
[[Image:o45.gif]]

* F R U R' U' F'

|}

=="I" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 55 ===
[[Image:o55.gif]]

* R U2 R2 U' R U' R' U2 F R F'
** A 4x4x4 special: Note: Rra = (R + r) + (L + l)
::(y) Rr U2 Rra' U2 Rr U2 Rr' U2 Rra U2 Rr'
*R' F R U R' F R U' R' F' R U M' U' M
*L F' L' U' L F' L' U L F L' U' M' U M
*(L F' L' U' L F' L' U L F L' U' L)(R' F R) L'

=== OLL 56 ===
[[Image:o56.gif]]

* R B R' U L U' L' U L U' L' R B' R'
* r' U' r U' R' U R U' R' U R r' U r
* F R U R' U' R F' r U R' U' r'

||

=== OLL 51 ===
[[Image:o51.gif]]

* F U R U' R' U R U' R' F'
* y2 f R U R' U' R U R' U' f'

=== OLL 52 ===
[[Image:o52.gif]]

* R' U' R U' R' d R' U R B
* R U R' U R d' R U' R' F'

|}

==Square shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 5 ===
[[Image:o5.gif]]

* (r' U2) (R U R' U r)

||

=== OLL 6 ===
[[Image:o6.gif]]

* y2 (r U2) (R' U' R U') r'
* l U2 L' U' L U' l'
|}

==Big lightning bolt shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 39 ===
[[Image:o39.gif]]

* L F' L' U' L U F U' L'
* y2 f' L F L' U' L' U L S
* y2 R B' R' U' R U B U' R'

||

=== OLL 40 ===
[[Image:o40.gif]]

* R' F R U R' U' F' U R
* y2 f R' F' R U R U' R' S'
* y2 L' B L U L' U' B' U L

|}

==Small lightning bolt shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 7 ===
[[Image:o7.gif]]

* (r U R' U) (R U2 r')

=== OLL 8 ===
[[Image:o8.gif]]

* y2 r' U' R U' R' U2 r
* R U2 R' U2 R' F R F'

||

=== OLL 11 ===
[[Image:o11.gif]]

* r' R2 U R' U R U2 R' U r R'
* y2 r U R' U R' F R F' R U2 r'

=== OLL 12 ===
[[Image:o12.gif]]

* F R U R' U' F' y F R U R' U' F'
* y F R U R2 F R y' R2 U R U2 R'
* y' r R2 U' R U' R' U2 R U' R r'

|}

==Fish shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 9 ===
[[Image:o9.gif]]

* y' R' U' R y' x' R U' R' F R U R' x
* y' R U R' U' R' F R2 U R' U' F'

=== OLL 10 ===
[[Image:o10.gif]]

* y' R U R' y R' F R U' R' F' R

* y' R' U' R U R B' R2 U' R U B
||

=== OLL 35 ===
[[Image:o35.gif]]

* R U2 R2' F R F' R U2 R'

=== OLL 37 ===
[[Image:o37.gif]]

* x' U' R U l' U' R' U R
* l U' R' U y' R U R' U' z'
* y F R U' R' U' R U R' F'
* y R' F R F' U' F' U F
* R B' R' B U B U' B'

|}

==Knight move shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 13 ===
[[Image:o13.gif]]

* F U R U' R2 F' R U R U' R'
* y2 x' R U' R' F' R U R' x y R' U R
* y2 f R U R2 U' R' U R U' f'
* r U' r' U' r U r' y' R' U R

=== OLL 14 ===
[[Image:o14.gif]]

* R' F R U R' F' R y' R U' R'
* y' R' U' y' R' U R2 B R' U' R' U R
* y2 B' U' R' U R2 B R' U' R' U R
||

=== OLL 15 ===
[[Image:o15.gif]]

* y2 R' F' R L' U' L U R' F R
* r' U' r R' U' R U r' U r

=== OLL 16 ===
[[Image:o16.gif]]

* y2 r U r' R U R' U' r U' r'
* y2 r U M U R' U' r U' r'

|}

==Awkward shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 29 ===
[[Image:o29.gif]]

* y2 R' F R F' R U2 R' d' L' U' L
* y2 R2' U' R F R' U R2' U' R' F' R
* y (R U R' U') (R U' R' F') U' (F R U R')
* y R' U2 R2 U R' U' R' U2 F R F'
* M U (R U R' U') (R' F R F') M'

=== OLL 30 ===
[[Image:o30.gif]]

* l U' R' U l' U2 d L U L'
* f R U R2 U' R' U R2 U' R' f'
* y2 F U R U' x' U R' D' R U' R'
* R2' U R' B' R U' R2' U R B R'

||

=== OLL 41 ===
[[Image:o41.gif]]

* R U' R' U2 R U y R U' R' U' F'
* y R U2' R' U' R U' R2 (y) L' U' L U F
* y2 F U R U' R' F' R' U2 R U R' U R
* y2 R U R' U R U2 R' F R U R' U' F'
* y2 R2 L z' l' U' R d L U' L l'

=== OLL 42 ===
[[Image:o42.gif]]

* L' U L U2 L' U' y' L' U L U F
* y R' U2 R U R' U R2 y R U R' U' F'
* y R' F R F' R' F R F' R U R' U' R U R'
* y2 L2 R' z r U L' d' R' U R' r

|}

==All Corners Oriented==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 28 ===
[[Image:o28.gif]]

* r U R' U' r' R U R U' R'
* F R U R' U' F' U2 F R U R' U' F'
* y2 M' U M U2 M' U M
* M U M' U2 M U M'

||

=== OLL 57 ===
[[Image:o57.gif]]

* R U R' U' r R' U R U' r'
* (x') M' U' R U M U' R' U (x)
* M U M U M U2 M' U M' U M' U2
* y M' U M' U M' U M' U M' U' M' U' M' U' M' U'

|}

[[Category:3x3x3 methods]]
[[Category:Cubing abbreviations and acronyms]]
[[Category:Algorithms]]

OLL

2009-05-27T23:26:32Z

Lord Voldemort: /* OLL 23 */

__NOTOC__
OLL is the [[Orientation]] of the [[Last Layer]], and is the first step in solving the last layer in many speedsolving methods.

Parentheses in an algorithm signify the triggers of the algorithm. For example, [(R U R') (L' U L)] shows two triggers in the algorithm, even though it is the same as [R U R' L' U L].

The areas shaded in gray represent the oriented pieces on the top layer. You can tell if a piece is oriented by looking at the top color of the piece in relation to the top center of the cube. If the piece is oriented, the two colors will be the same.

The bars sticking off to the side of an unshaded piece represent where the [[sticker]] that needs to be on top is.

==All edges flipped correctly==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 21 ===
[[Image:o21.gif]]

* R U R' U R U' R' U R U2 R'
* y R U2 R' U' R U R' U' R U' R'
* y F (R U R' U') (R U R' U') (R U R' U') F'

=== OLL 22 ===
[[Image:o22.gif]]

* R U2 R2' U' R2 U' R2' U2 R
* f (R U R' U') f' F (R U R' U') F'
* y2 L' U2 L2 U L2 U L2 U2 L'
* R U2 R2 U' R' U R U' R U' R' y M' U2 M
* R' U L U' R U' L' U' L U' L'
* y2 L U' R' U L' U R U R' U R
* y2 L' U R U' L U' R' U' R U' R'
* R U' L' U R' U L U L' U L

=== OLL 23 ===
[[Image:o23.gif]]

* R2 D' R U2 R' D R U2 R
* R' U2 R F U' R' U' R U F'
* l2 U' R D2 R' U R D2 R
* l2' U' z' U R2 U' L U R2 z' L
* y' R U R' U' (R U' R' U2)(R U' R' U2) R U R'
* y2 R' F2 R U2 R U2 R' F2 R U2 R'
* y2 R2 D R' U2 R D' R' U2 R'
* (R' U' R U) R' U2 R2 U (R' U R U2 R)

=== OLL 24 ===
[[Image:o24.gif]]

* r U R' U' L' U R U' x'
* r U R' U' r' F R F'
* y' F R' F' R U R U' R'
* y' R U R2' U' R2 U' R2' U2' R U' R U' R'
* y' R U' R' (U2 R U R') (U2 R U R') (U R U' R')
* y2 R' F' r U R U' r' F
* y2 l' U' L U R U' r' F

||

=== OLL 25 ===
[[Image:o25.gif]]

* y' F' r U R' U' r' F R
* y' x U R' U' L U R U' r'
* y R' F' L' F R F' L F
* y R' U' (R U R' F') (R U R' U') (R' F R2)
* y2 R U2' R D R' U2 R D' R2'
* y2 F R' F' r U R U' r'
* y2 l' U R D' R' U' R D x'
* y2 x' L' U' R' U L U' R U
* x' D R U R' D' R U' l'
* x' U L' U' R U L U' l'
* l' U' L' U R U' L U x'
* U r U R U' L' U R' U' x'
* R U2 R' U' R U R' U' R U R' U' R U' R'
* R U R' U R U' R' U R U' R' U R U2 R'

=== OLL 26 ===
[[Image:o26.gif]]

* y2 R' U' R U' R' U2 R
* y' R U2 R' U' R U' R'
* L U2 L' U' L U' L'
* L' U' L U' L' U2 L
* L' U R U' L U R'

=== OLL 27 ===
[[Image:o27.gif]]

* R U R' U R U2 R'
* y' R' U2 R U R' U R
* y L' U2 L U L' UL
* y2 L U L' U L U2 L'
* R U' L' U R' U' L

|}

==No edges flipped correctly==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 1 ===
[[Image:o1.gif]]

* (R U2) (R2' F R F' U2') (R' F R F')
* R U B' R B R2 U' R' F R F'

=== OLL 2 ===
[[Image:o2.gif]]

* F (R U R' U') F' f (R U R' U') f'

=== OLL 3 ===
[[Image:o3.gif]]

* y f (R U R' U') f' U' F (R U R' U') F'
* y2 r' R2 U R' U r U2 r' U R' r

=== OLL 4 ===
[[Image:o4.gif]]

* f (R U R' U') f' U F (R U R' U') F'
* R' U2 x R' U R U' y R' U' R' U R' F
* y r' R U' r U2 r' U' R U' R2' r

||

=== OLL 17 ===
[[Image:o17.gif]]

* R U R' U R' F R F' U2 R' F R F'

=== OLL 18 ===
[[Image:o18.gif]]

* y' r U R' U R U2 r2' U' R U' R' U2 r
* y2 F R U R' d R' U2 R' F R F'
* R U2 R2 F R F' U2 M' U R U' r'

=== OLL 19 ===
[[Image:o19.gif]]

* r' U2 R U R' U r2 U2' R' U' R U' r'
* R' U2 F R U R' U' y' R2 U2 R B
* r' R U R U R' U' r R2' F R F'

=== OLL 20 ===
[[Image:o20.gif]]

* r' R U R U R' U' r2 R2' U R U' r'
* M U R U R' U' M2 U R U' r'
* M' U2 M' U2 M' U M U2 M U2 M
* M' U2 M U2 M' U M U2 M' U2 M
* M d r2 U M' U2 M U r2 S'
* M' U M' U M' U M' U M U M U M U M U
|}

=="P" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 31 ===
[[Image:o31.gif]]

* L' d' R d L U' L' B' L
* S' L' U' L U L F' L' f
* y x U R' U' l U R U R' U' R U' R'
* y2 R' U' F U R U' R' F' R
* L' U' B U L U' L' B' L

=== OLL 32 ===
[[Image:o32.gif]]

* R d L' d' R' U R B R'
* S R U R' U' R' F R f'
* y x' U' R U l' U' R' U' R U R' U R
* R U B' U' R' U R B R'
* y2 F U R U' F' r U R' U' r'

||

=== OLL 43 ===
[[Image:o43.gif]]

* f' L' U' L U f
* B' U' R' U R B
* y2 F' U' L' U L F
* U R U R' F' L' U' L F

=== OLL 44 ===
[[Image:o44.gif]]

* f R U R' U' f'
* y2 F U R U' R' F'
* y R U y' L U' L' B'

|}

=="W" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 36 ===
[[Image:o36.gif]]

* R' U' R U' R' U R U R B' R' B

||

=== OLL 38 ===
[[Image:o38.gif]]

* L U L' U L U' L' U' L' B L B'
* y2 R U R' U R U' R' U' R' F R F'

|}

=="L" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 53 ===
[[Image:o53.gif]]

* l' U' L U' L' U L U' L' U2 l
* y2 r' U' R U' R' U R U' R' U2 r
* y' r' U2 R U R' U' R U R' U r

=== OLL 54 ===
[[Image:o54.gif]]

* r U R' U R U' R' U R U2 r'
* y' r U2 R' U' R U R' U' R U' r'

=== OLL 50 ===
[[Image:o50.gif]]

* y2 R' F R2 B' R2 F' R2 B R'
* r' U r2 U' r2' U' r2 U r'
* R B' R B R2' U2 F R' F' R
* y2 l' U l2 U' l2 U' l2 U l'
* r' U2 R2' U R2 U rR U2 R'
* y' [R U2 R' U' R U' R'] [F R U R' U' F']
||

=== OLL 47 ===
[[Image:o47.gif]]

* F' L' U' L U L' U' L U F
* R' U' x R' U R U' R' U R U' x' U R
* b' U' R' U R U' R' U R b

=== OLL 48 ===
[[Image:o48.gif]]

* F R U R' U' R U R' U' F'
* y2 f U R U' R' U R U' R' f'

=== OLL 49 ===
[[Image:o49.gif]]

* R B' R2 F R2 B R2 F' R
* l U' l2' U l2 U l2' U' l
* y2 r U' r2 U r2 U r2 U' r
* y2 R' F R' F' R2 d2 y' R' F R F'
* y2 r U2 R2' U' R2 U' r'R' U2 R

|}

=="C" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 34 ===
[[Image:o34.gif]]

* R U R' U' x D' R' U R E'
* R U R' d' l' U' L U r' R
* y2 F R U R' U' R' F' r U R U' r'
||

=== OLL 46 ===
[[Image:o46.gif]]

* R' U' R' F R F' U R
* R' U' l' U l F' U R
* R U l U' R' U F' l'
* y2 L F U' R U R' F' L'

|}

=="T" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 33 ===
[[Image:o33.gif]]

* R U R' U' R' F R F'

||

=== OLL 45 ===
[[Image:o45.gif]]

* F R U R' U' F'

|}

=="I" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 55 ===
[[Image:o55.gif]]

* R U2 R2 U' R U' R' U2 F R F'
** A 4x4x4 special: Note: Rra = (R + r) + (L + l)
::(y) Rr U2 Rra' U2 Rr U2 Rr' U2 Rra U2 Rr'
*R' F R U R' F R U' R' F' R U M' U' M
*L F' L' U' L F' L' U L F L' U' M' U M
*(L F' L' U' L F' L' U L F L' U' L)(R' F R) L'

=== OLL 56 ===
[[Image:o56.gif]]

* R B R' U L U' L' U L U' L' R B' R'
* r' U' r U' R' U R U' R' U R r' U r
* F R U R' U' R F' r U R' U' r'

||

=== OLL 51 ===
[[Image:o51.gif]]

* F U R U' R' U R U' R' F'
* y2 f R U R' U' R U R' U' f'

=== OLL 52 ===
[[Image:o52.gif]]

* R' U' R U' R' d R' U R B
* R U R' U R d' R U' R' F'

|}

==Square shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 5 ===
[[Image:o5.gif]]

* (r' U2) (R U R' U r)

||

=== OLL 6 ===
[[Image:o6.gif]]

* y2 (r U2) (R' U' R U') r'
* l U2 L' U' L U' l'
|}

==Big lightning bolt shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 39 ===
[[Image:o39.gif]]

* L F' L' U' L U F U' L'
* y2 f' L F L' U' L' U L S
* y2 R B' R' U' R U B U' R'

||

=== OLL 40 ===
[[Image:o40.gif]]

* R' F R U R' U' F' U R
* y2 f R' F' R U R U' R' S'
* y2 L' B L U L' U' B' U L

|}

==Small lightning bolt shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 7 ===
[[Image:o7.gif]]

* (r U R' U) (R U2 r')

=== OLL 8 ===
[[Image:o8.gif]]

* y2 r' U' R U' R' U2 r
* R U2 R' U2 R' F R F'

||

=== OLL 11 ===
[[Image:o11.gif]]

* r' R2 U R' U R U2 R' U r R'
* y2 r U R' U R' F R F' R U2 r'

=== OLL 12 ===
[[Image:o12.gif]]

* F R U R' U' F' y F R U R' U' F'
* y F R U R2 F R y' R2 U R U2 R'
* y' r R2 U' R U' R' U2 R U' R r'

|}

==Fish shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 9 ===
[[Image:o9.gif]]

* y' R' U' R y' x' R U' R' F R U R' x
* y' R U R' U' R' F R2 U R' U' F'

=== OLL 10 ===
[[Image:o10.gif]]

* y' R U R' y R' F R U' R' F' R

* y' R' U' R U R B' R2 U' R U B
||

=== OLL 35 ===
[[Image:o35.gif]]

* R U2 R2' F R F' R U2 R'

=== OLL 37 ===
[[Image:o37.gif]]

* x' U' R U l' U' R' U R
* l U' R' U y' R U R' U' z'
* y F R U' R' U' R U R' F'
* y R' F R F' U' F' U F
* R B' R' B U B U' B'

|}

==Knight move shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 13 ===
[[Image:o13.gif]]

* F U R U' R2 F' R U R U' R'
* y2 x' R U' R' F' R U R' x y R' U R
* y2 f R U R2 U' R' U R U' f'
* r U' r' U' r U r' y' R' U R

=== OLL 14 ===
[[Image:o14.gif]]

* R' F R U R' F' R y' R U' R'
* y' R' U' y' R' U R2 B R' U' R' U R
* y2 B' U' R' U R2 B R' U' R' U R
||

=== OLL 15 ===
[[Image:o15.gif]]

* y2 R' F' R L' U' L U R' F R
* r' U' r R' U' R U r' U r

=== OLL 16 ===
[[Image:o16.gif]]

* y2 r U r' R U R' U' r U' r'
* y2 r U M U R' U' r U' r'

|}

==Awkward shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 29 ===
[[Image:o29.gif]]

* y2 R' F R F' R U2 R' d' L' U' L
* y2 R2' U' R F R' U R2' U' R' F' R
* y (R U R' U') (R U' R' F') U' (F R U R')
* y R' U2 R2 U R' U' R' U2 F R F'
* M U (R U R' U') (R' F R F') M'

=== OLL 30 ===
[[Image:o30.gif]]

* l U' R' U l' U2 d L U L'
* f R U R2 U' R' U R2 U' R' f'
* y2 F U R U' x' U R' D' R U' R'
* R2' U R' B' R U' R2' U R B R'

||

=== OLL 41 ===
[[Image:o41.gif]]

* R U' R' U2 R U y R U' R' U' F'
* y R U2' R' U' R U' R2 (y) L' U' L U F
* y2 F U R U' R' F' R' U2 R U R' U R
* y2 R U R' U R U2 R' F R U R' U' F'
* y2 R2 L z' l' U' R d L U' L l'

=== OLL 42 ===
[[Image:o42.gif]]

* L' U L U2 L' U' y' L' U L U F
* y R' U2 R U R' U R2 y R U R' U' F'
* y R' F R F' R' F R F' R U R' U' R U R'
* y2 L2 R' z r U L' d' R' U R' r

|}

==All Corners Oriented==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 28 ===
[[Image:o28.gif]]

* r U R' U' r' R U R U' R'
* F R U R' U' F' U2 F R U R' U' F'
* y2 M' U M U2 M' U M
* M U M' U2 M U M'

||

=== OLL 57 ===
[[Image:o57.gif]]

* R U R' U' r R' U R U' r'
* (x') M' U' R U M U' R' U (x)
* M U M U M U2 M' U M' U M' U2
* y M' U M' U M' U M' U M' U' M' U' M' U' M' U'

|}

[[Category:3x3x3 methods]]
[[Category:Cubing abbreviations and acronyms]]
[[Category:Algorithms]]

OLL

2009-05-27T23:26:12Z

Lord Voldemort: /* OLL 23 */

__NOTOC__
OLL is the [[Orientation]] of the [[Last Layer]], and is the first step in solving the last layer in many speedsolving methods.

Parentheses in an algorithm signify the triggers of the algorithm. For example, [(R U R') (L' U L)] shows two triggers in the algorithm, even though it is the same as [R U R' L' U L].

The areas shaded in gray represent the oriented pieces on the top layer. You can tell if a piece is oriented by looking at the top color of the piece in relation to the top center of the cube. If the piece is oriented, the two colors will be the same.

The bars sticking off to the side of an unshaded piece represent where the [[sticker]] that needs to be on top is.

==All edges flipped correctly==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 21 ===
[[Image:o21.gif]]

* R U R' U R U' R' U R U2 R'
* y R U2 R' U' R U R' U' R U' R'
* y F (R U R' U') (R U R' U') (R U R' U') F'

=== OLL 22 ===
[[Image:o22.gif]]

* R U2 R2' U' R2 U' R2' U2 R
* f (R U R' U') f' F (R U R' U') F'
* y2 L' U2 L2 U L2 U L2 U2 L'
* R U2 R2 U' R' U R U' R U' R' y M' U2 M
* R' U L U' R U' L' U' L U' L'
* y2 L U' R' U L' U R U R' U R
* y2 L' U R U' L U' R' U' R U' R'
* R U' L' U R' U L U L' U L

=== OLL 23 ===
[[Image:o23.gif]]

* R2 D' R U2 R' D R U2 R
* R' U2 R F U' R' U' R U F'
* l2 U' R D2 R' U R D2 R
* l2' U' z' U R2 U' L U R2 z' L
* y' R U R' U' (R U' R' U2)(R U' R' U2) R U R'
* y2 R' F2 R U2 R U2 R' F2 R U2 R'
* y2 R2 D R' U2 R D' R' U2 R'
* (R' U' R U) R' U2 R2 U (R'U R U2 R)

=== OLL 24 ===
[[Image:o24.gif]]

* r U R' U' L' U R U' x'
* r U R' U' r' F R F'
* y' F R' F' R U R U' R'
* y' R U R2' U' R2 U' R2' U2' R U' R U' R'
* y' R U' R' (U2 R U R') (U2 R U R') (U R U' R')
* y2 R' F' r U R U' r' F
* y2 l' U' L U R U' r' F

||

=== OLL 25 ===
[[Image:o25.gif]]

* y' F' r U R' U' r' F R
* y' x U R' U' L U R U' r'
* y R' F' L' F R F' L F
* y R' U' (R U R' F') (R U R' U') (R' F R2)
* y2 R U2' R D R' U2 R D' R2'
* y2 F R' F' r U R U' r'
* y2 l' U R D' R' U' R D x'
* y2 x' L' U' R' U L U' R U
* x' D R U R' D' R U' l'
* x' U L' U' R U L U' l'
* l' U' L' U R U' L U x'
* U r U R U' L' U R' U' x'
* R U2 R' U' R U R' U' R U R' U' R U' R'
* R U R' U R U' R' U R U' R' U R U2 R'

=== OLL 26 ===
[[Image:o26.gif]]

* y2 R' U' R U' R' U2 R
* y' R U2 R' U' R U' R'
* L U2 L' U' L U' L'
* L' U' L U' L' U2 L
* L' U R U' L U R'

=== OLL 27 ===
[[Image:o27.gif]]

* R U R' U R U2 R'
* y' R' U2 R U R' U R
* y L' U2 L U L' UL
* y2 L U L' U L U2 L'
* R U' L' U R' U' L

|}

==No edges flipped correctly==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 1 ===
[[Image:o1.gif]]

* (R U2) (R2' F R F' U2') (R' F R F')
* R U B' R B R2 U' R' F R F'

=== OLL 2 ===
[[Image:o2.gif]]

* F (R U R' U') F' f (R U R' U') f'

=== OLL 3 ===
[[Image:o3.gif]]

* y f (R U R' U') f' U' F (R U R' U') F'
* y2 r' R2 U R' U r U2 r' U R' r

=== OLL 4 ===
[[Image:o4.gif]]

* f (R U R' U') f' U F (R U R' U') F'
* R' U2 x R' U R U' y R' U' R' U R' F
* y r' R U' r U2 r' U' R U' R2' r

||

=== OLL 17 ===
[[Image:o17.gif]]

* R U R' U R' F R F' U2 R' F R F'

=== OLL 18 ===
[[Image:o18.gif]]

* y' r U R' U R U2 r2' U' R U' R' U2 r
* y2 F R U R' d R' U2 R' F R F'
* R U2 R2 F R F' U2 M' U R U' r'

=== OLL 19 ===
[[Image:o19.gif]]

* r' U2 R U R' U r2 U2' R' U' R U' r'
* R' U2 F R U R' U' y' R2 U2 R B
* r' R U R U R' U' r R2' F R F'

=== OLL 20 ===
[[Image:o20.gif]]

* r' R U R U R' U' r2 R2' U R U' r'
* M U R U R' U' M2 U R U' r'
* M' U2 M' U2 M' U M U2 M U2 M
* M' U2 M U2 M' U M U2 M' U2 M
* M d r2 U M' U2 M U r2 S'
* M' U M' U M' U M' U M U M U M U M U
|}

=="P" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 31 ===
[[Image:o31.gif]]

* L' d' R d L U' L' B' L
* S' L' U' L U L F' L' f
* y x U R' U' l U R U R' U' R U' R'
* y2 R' U' F U R U' R' F' R
* L' U' B U L U' L' B' L

=== OLL 32 ===
[[Image:o32.gif]]

* R d L' d' R' U R B R'
* S R U R' U' R' F R f'
* y x' U' R U l' U' R' U' R U R' U R
* R U B' U' R' U R B R'
* y2 F U R U' F' r U R' U' r'

||

=== OLL 43 ===
[[Image:o43.gif]]

* f' L' U' L U f
* B' U' R' U R B
* y2 F' U' L' U L F
* U R U R' F' L' U' L F

=== OLL 44 ===
[[Image:o44.gif]]

* f R U R' U' f'
* y2 F U R U' R' F'
* y R U y' L U' L' B'

|}

=="W" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 36 ===
[[Image:o36.gif]]

* R' U' R U' R' U R U R B' R' B

||

=== OLL 38 ===
[[Image:o38.gif]]

* L U L' U L U' L' U' L' B L B'
* y2 R U R' U R U' R' U' R' F R F'

|}

=="L" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 53 ===
[[Image:o53.gif]]

* l' U' L U' L' U L U' L' U2 l
* y2 r' U' R U' R' U R U' R' U2 r
* y' r' U2 R U R' U' R U R' U r

=== OLL 54 ===
[[Image:o54.gif]]

* r U R' U R U' R' U R U2 r'
* y' r U2 R' U' R U R' U' R U' r'

=== OLL 50 ===
[[Image:o50.gif]]

* y2 R' F R2 B' R2 F' R2 B R'
* r' U r2 U' r2' U' r2 U r'
* R B' R B R2' U2 F R' F' R
* y2 l' U l2 U' l2 U' l2 U l'
* r' U2 R2' U R2 U rR U2 R'
* y' [R U2 R' U' R U' R'] [F R U R' U' F']
||

=== OLL 47 ===
[[Image:o47.gif]]

* F' L' U' L U L' U' L U F
* R' U' x R' U R U' R' U R U' x' U R
* b' U' R' U R U' R' U R b

=== OLL 48 ===
[[Image:o48.gif]]

* F R U R' U' R U R' U' F'
* y2 f U R U' R' U R U' R' f'

=== OLL 49 ===
[[Image:o49.gif]]

* R B' R2 F R2 B R2 F' R
* l U' l2' U l2 U l2' U' l
* y2 r U' r2 U r2 U r2 U' r
* y2 R' F R' F' R2 d2 y' R' F R F'
* y2 r U2 R2' U' R2 U' r'R' U2 R

|}

=="C" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 34 ===
[[Image:o34.gif]]

* R U R' U' x D' R' U R E'
* R U R' d' l' U' L U r' R
* y2 F R U R' U' R' F' r U R U' r'
||

=== OLL 46 ===
[[Image:o46.gif]]

* R' U' R' F R F' U R
* R' U' l' U l F' U R
* R U l U' R' U F' l'
* y2 L F U' R U R' F' L'

|}

=="T" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 33 ===
[[Image:o33.gif]]

* R U R' U' R' F R F'

||

=== OLL 45 ===
[[Image:o45.gif]]

* F R U R' U' F'

|}

=="I" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 55 ===
[[Image:o55.gif]]

* R U2 R2 U' R U' R' U2 F R F'
** A 4x4x4 special: Note: Rra = (R + r) + (L + l)
::(y) Rr U2 Rra' U2 Rr U2 Rr' U2 Rra U2 Rr'
*R' F R U R' F R U' R' F' R U M' U' M
*L F' L' U' L F' L' U L F L' U' M' U M
*(L F' L' U' L F' L' U L F L' U' L)(R' F R) L'

=== OLL 56 ===
[[Image:o56.gif]]

* R B R' U L U' L' U L U' L' R B' R'
* r' U' r U' R' U R U' R' U R r' U r
* F R U R' U' R F' r U R' U' r'

||

=== OLL 51 ===
[[Image:o51.gif]]

* F U R U' R' U R U' R' F'
* y2 f R U R' U' R U R' U' f'

=== OLL 52 ===
[[Image:o52.gif]]

* R' U' R U' R' d R' U R B
* R U R' U R d' R U' R' F'

|}

==Square shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 5 ===
[[Image:o5.gif]]

* (r' U2) (R U R' U r)

||

=== OLL 6 ===
[[Image:o6.gif]]

* y2 (r U2) (R' U' R U') r'
* l U2 L' U' L U' l'
|}

==Big lightning bolt shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 39 ===
[[Image:o39.gif]]

* L F' L' U' L U F U' L'
* y2 f' L F L' U' L' U L S
* y2 R B' R' U' R U B U' R'

||

=== OLL 40 ===
[[Image:o40.gif]]

* R' F R U R' U' F' U R
* y2 f R' F' R U R U' R' S'
* y2 L' B L U L' U' B' U L

|}

==Small lightning bolt shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 7 ===
[[Image:o7.gif]]

* (r U R' U) (R U2 r')

=== OLL 8 ===
[[Image:o8.gif]]

* y2 r' U' R U' R' U2 r
* R U2 R' U2 R' F R F'

||

=== OLL 11 ===
[[Image:o11.gif]]

* r' R2 U R' U R U2 R' U r R'
* y2 r U R' U R' F R F' R U2 r'

=== OLL 12 ===
[[Image:o12.gif]]

* F R U R' U' F' y F R U R' U' F'
* y F R U R2 F R y' R2 U R U2 R'
* y' r R2 U' R U' R' U2 R U' R r'

|}

==Fish shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 9 ===
[[Image:o9.gif]]

* y' R' U' R y' x' R U' R' F R U R' x
* y' R U R' U' R' F R2 U R' U' F'

=== OLL 10 ===
[[Image:o10.gif]]

* y' R U R' y R' F R U' R' F' R

* y' R' U' R U R B' R2 U' R U B
||

=== OLL 35 ===
[[Image:o35.gif]]

* R U2 R2' F R F' R U2 R'

=== OLL 37 ===
[[Image:o37.gif]]

* x' U' R U l' U' R' U R
* l U' R' U y' R U R' U' z'
* y F R U' R' U' R U R' F'
* y R' F R F' U' F' U F
* R B' R' B U B U' B'

|}

==Knight move shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 13 ===
[[Image:o13.gif]]

* F U R U' R2 F' R U R U' R'
* y2 x' R U' R' F' R U R' x y R' U R
* y2 f R U R2 U' R' U R U' f'
* r U' r' U' r U r' y' R' U R

=== OLL 14 ===
[[Image:o14.gif]]

* R' F R U R' F' R y' R U' R'
* y' R' U' y' R' U R2 B R' U' R' U R
* y2 B' U' R' U R2 B R' U' R' U R
||

=== OLL 15 ===
[[Image:o15.gif]]

* y2 R' F' R L' U' L U R' F R
* r' U' r R' U' R U r' U r

=== OLL 16 ===
[[Image:o16.gif]]

* y2 r U r' R U R' U' r U' r'
* y2 r U M U R' U' r U' r'

|}

==Awkward shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 29 ===
[[Image:o29.gif]]

* y2 R' F R F' R U2 R' d' L' U' L
* y2 R2' U' R F R' U R2' U' R' F' R
* y (R U R' U') (R U' R' F') U' (F R U R')
* y R' U2 R2 U R' U' R' U2 F R F'
* M U (R U R' U') (R' F R F') M'

=== OLL 30 ===
[[Image:o30.gif]]

* l U' R' U l' U2 d L U L'
* f R U R2 U' R' U R2 U' R' f'
* y2 F U R U' x' U R' D' R U' R'
* R2' U R' B' R U' R2' U R B R'

||

=== OLL 41 ===
[[Image:o41.gif]]

* R U' R' U2 R U y R U' R' U' F'
* y R U2' R' U' R U' R2 (y) L' U' L U F
* y2 F U R U' R' F' R' U2 R U R' U R
* y2 R U R' U R U2 R' F R U R' U' F'
* y2 R2 L z' l' U' R d L U' L l'

=== OLL 42 ===
[[Image:o42.gif]]

* L' U L U2 L' U' y' L' U L U F
* y R' U2 R U R' U R2 y R U R' U' F'
* y R' F R F' R' F R F' R U R' U' R U R'
* y2 L2 R' z r U L' d' R' U R' r

|}

==All Corners Oriented==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 28 ===
[[Image:o28.gif]]

* r U R' U' r' R U R U' R'
* F R U R' U' F' U2 F R U R' U' F'
* y2 M' U M U2 M' U M
* M U M' U2 M U M'

||

=== OLL 57 ===
[[Image:o57.gif]]

* R U R' U' r R' U R U' r'
* (x') M' U' R U M U' R' U (x)
* M U M U M U2 M' U M' U M' U2
* y M' U M' U M' U M' U M' U' M' U' M' U' M' U'

|}

[[Category:3x3x3 methods]]
[[Category:Cubing abbreviations and acronyms]]
[[Category:Algorithms]]

OLL

2009-05-27T23:25:59Z

Lord Voldemort: /* OLL 23 */

__NOTOC__
OLL is the [[Orientation]] of the [[Last Layer]], and is the first step in solving the last layer in many speedsolving methods.

Parentheses in an algorithm signify the triggers of the algorithm. For example, [(R U R') (L' U L)] shows two triggers in the algorithm, even though it is the same as [R U R' L' U L].

The areas shaded in gray represent the oriented pieces on the top layer. You can tell if a piece is oriented by looking at the top color of the piece in relation to the top center of the cube. If the piece is oriented, the two colors will be the same.

The bars sticking off to the side of an unshaded piece represent where the [[sticker]] that needs to be on top is.

==All edges flipped correctly==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 21 ===
[[Image:o21.gif]]

* R U R' U R U' R' U R U2 R'
* y R U2 R' U' R U R' U' R U' R'
* y F (R U R' U') (R U R' U') (R U R' U') F'

=== OLL 22 ===
[[Image:o22.gif]]

* R U2 R2' U' R2 U' R2' U2 R
* f (R U R' U') f' F (R U R' U') F'
* y2 L' U2 L2 U L2 U L2 U2 L'
* R U2 R2 U' R' U R U' R U' R' y M' U2 M
* R' U L U' R U' L' U' L U' L'
* y2 L U' R' U L' U R U R' U R
* y2 L' U R U' L U' R' U' R U' R'
* R U' L' U R' U L U L' U L

=== OLL 23 ===
[[Image:o23.gif]]

* R2 D' R U2 R' D R U2 R
* R' U2 R F U' R' U' R U F'
* l2 U' R D2 R' U R D2 R
* l2' U' z' U R2 U' L U R2 z' L
* y' R U R' U' (R U' R' U2)(R U' R' U2) R U R'
* y2 R' F2 R U2 R U2 R' F2 R U2 R'
* y2 R2 D R' U2 R D' R' U2 R'
* (R' U' R U)R' U2 R2 U (R'U R U2 R)

=== OLL 24 ===
[[Image:o24.gif]]

* r U R' U' L' U R U' x'
* r U R' U' r' F R F'
* y' F R' F' R U R U' R'
* y' R U R2' U' R2 U' R2' U2' R U' R U' R'
* y' R U' R' (U2 R U R') (U2 R U R') (U R U' R')
* y2 R' F' r U R U' r' F
* y2 l' U' L U R U' r' F

||

=== OLL 25 ===
[[Image:o25.gif]]

* y' F' r U R' U' r' F R
* y' x U R' U' L U R U' r'
* y R' F' L' F R F' L F
* y R' U' (R U R' F') (R U R' U') (R' F R2)
* y2 R U2' R D R' U2 R D' R2'
* y2 F R' F' r U R U' r'
* y2 l' U R D' R' U' R D x'
* y2 x' L' U' R' U L U' R U
* x' D R U R' D' R U' l'
* x' U L' U' R U L U' l'
* l' U' L' U R U' L U x'
* U r U R U' L' U R' U' x'
* R U2 R' U' R U R' U' R U R' U' R U' R'
* R U R' U R U' R' U R U' R' U R U2 R'

=== OLL 26 ===
[[Image:o26.gif]]

* y2 R' U' R U' R' U2 R
* y' R U2 R' U' R U' R'
* L U2 L' U' L U' L'
* L' U' L U' L' U2 L
* L' U R U' L U R'

=== OLL 27 ===
[[Image:o27.gif]]

* R U R' U R U2 R'
* y' R' U2 R U R' U R
* y L' U2 L U L' UL
* y2 L U L' U L U2 L'
* R U' L' U R' U' L

|}

==No edges flipped correctly==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 1 ===
[[Image:o1.gif]]

* (R U2) (R2' F R F' U2') (R' F R F')
* R U B' R B R2 U' R' F R F'

=== OLL 2 ===
[[Image:o2.gif]]

* F (R U R' U') F' f (R U R' U') f'

=== OLL 3 ===
[[Image:o3.gif]]

* y f (R U R' U') f' U' F (R U R' U') F'
* y2 r' R2 U R' U r U2 r' U R' r

=== OLL 4 ===
[[Image:o4.gif]]

* f (R U R' U') f' U F (R U R' U') F'
* R' U2 x R' U R U' y R' U' R' U R' F
* y r' R U' r U2 r' U' R U' R2' r

||

=== OLL 17 ===
[[Image:o17.gif]]

* R U R' U R' F R F' U2 R' F R F'

=== OLL 18 ===
[[Image:o18.gif]]

* y' r U R' U R U2 r2' U' R U' R' U2 r
* y2 F R U R' d R' U2 R' F R F'
* R U2 R2 F R F' U2 M' U R U' r'

=== OLL 19 ===
[[Image:o19.gif]]

* r' U2 R U R' U r2 U2' R' U' R U' r'
* R' U2 F R U R' U' y' R2 U2 R B
* r' R U R U R' U' r R2' F R F'

=== OLL 20 ===
[[Image:o20.gif]]

* r' R U R U R' U' r2 R2' U R U' r'
* M U R U R' U' M2 U R U' r'
* M' U2 M' U2 M' U M U2 M U2 M
* M' U2 M U2 M' U M U2 M' U2 M
* M d r2 U M' U2 M U r2 S'
* M' U M' U M' U M' U M U M U M U M U
|}

=="P" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 31 ===
[[Image:o31.gif]]

* L' d' R d L U' L' B' L
* S' L' U' L U L F' L' f
* y x U R' U' l U R U R' U' R U' R'
* y2 R' U' F U R U' R' F' R
* L' U' B U L U' L' B' L

=== OLL 32 ===
[[Image:o32.gif]]

* R d L' d' R' U R B R'
* S R U R' U' R' F R f'
* y x' U' R U l' U' R' U' R U R' U R
* R U B' U' R' U R B R'
* y2 F U R U' F' r U R' U' r'

||

=== OLL 43 ===
[[Image:o43.gif]]

* f' L' U' L U f
* B' U' R' U R B
* y2 F' U' L' U L F
* U R U R' F' L' U' L F

=== OLL 44 ===
[[Image:o44.gif]]

* f R U R' U' f'
* y2 F U R U' R' F'
* y R U y' L U' L' B'

|}

=="W" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 36 ===
[[Image:o36.gif]]

* R' U' R U' R' U R U R B' R' B

||

=== OLL 38 ===
[[Image:o38.gif]]

* L U L' U L U' L' U' L' B L B'
* y2 R U R' U R U' R' U' R' F R F'

|}

=="L" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 53 ===
[[Image:o53.gif]]

* l' U' L U' L' U L U' L' U2 l
* y2 r' U' R U' R' U R U' R' U2 r
* y' r' U2 R U R' U' R U R' U r

=== OLL 54 ===
[[Image:o54.gif]]

* r U R' U R U' R' U R U2 r'
* y' r U2 R' U' R U R' U' R U' r'

=== OLL 50 ===
[[Image:o50.gif]]

* y2 R' F R2 B' R2 F' R2 B R'
* r' U r2 U' r2' U' r2 U r'
* R B' R B R2' U2 F R' F' R
* y2 l' U l2 U' l2 U' l2 U l'
* r' U2 R2' U R2 U rR U2 R'
* y' [R U2 R' U' R U' R'] [F R U R' U' F']
||

=== OLL 47 ===
[[Image:o47.gif]]

* F' L' U' L U L' U' L U F
* R' U' x R' U R U' R' U R U' x' U R
* b' U' R' U R U' R' U R b

=== OLL 48 ===
[[Image:o48.gif]]

* F R U R' U' R U R' U' F'
* y2 f U R U' R' U R U' R' f'

=== OLL 49 ===
[[Image:o49.gif]]

* R B' R2 F R2 B R2 F' R
* l U' l2' U l2 U l2' U' l
* y2 r U' r2 U r2 U r2 U' r
* y2 R' F R' F' R2 d2 y' R' F R F'
* y2 r U2 R2' U' R2 U' r'R' U2 R

|}

=="C" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 34 ===
[[Image:o34.gif]]

* R U R' U' x D' R' U R E'
* R U R' d' l' U' L U r' R
* y2 F R U R' U' R' F' r U R U' r'
||

=== OLL 46 ===
[[Image:o46.gif]]

* R' U' R' F R F' U R
* R' U' l' U l F' U R
* R U l U' R' U F' l'
* y2 L F U' R U R' F' L'

|}

=="T" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 33 ===
[[Image:o33.gif]]

* R U R' U' R' F R F'

||

=== OLL 45 ===
[[Image:o45.gif]]

* F R U R' U' F'

|}

=="I" shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 55 ===
[[Image:o55.gif]]

* R U2 R2 U' R U' R' U2 F R F'
** A 4x4x4 special: Note: Rra = (R + r) + (L + l)
::(y) Rr U2 Rra' U2 Rr U2 Rr' U2 Rra U2 Rr'
*R' F R U R' F R U' R' F' R U M' U' M
*L F' L' U' L F' L' U L F L' U' M' U M
*(L F' L' U' L F' L' U L F L' U' L)(R' F R) L'

=== OLL 56 ===
[[Image:o56.gif]]

* R B R' U L U' L' U L U' L' R B' R'
* r' U' r U' R' U R U' R' U R r' U r
* F R U R' U' R F' r U R' U' r'

||

=== OLL 51 ===
[[Image:o51.gif]]

* F U R U' R' U R U' R' F'
* y2 f R U R' U' R U R' U' f'

=== OLL 52 ===
[[Image:o52.gif]]

* R' U' R U' R' d R' U R B
* R U R' U R d' R U' R' F'

|}

==Square shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 5 ===
[[Image:o5.gif]]

* (r' U2) (R U R' U r)

||

=== OLL 6 ===
[[Image:o6.gif]]

* y2 (r U2) (R' U' R U') r'
* l U2 L' U' L U' l'
|}

==Big lightning bolt shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 39 ===
[[Image:o39.gif]]

* L F' L' U' L U F U' L'
* y2 f' L F L' U' L' U L S
* y2 R B' R' U' R U B U' R'

||

=== OLL 40 ===
[[Image:o40.gif]]

* R' F R U R' U' F' U R
* y2 f R' F' R U R U' R' S'
* y2 L' B L U L' U' B' U L

|}

==Small lightning bolt shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 7 ===
[[Image:o7.gif]]

* (r U R' U) (R U2 r')

=== OLL 8 ===
[[Image:o8.gif]]

* y2 r' U' R U' R' U2 r
* R U2 R' U2 R' F R F'

||

=== OLL 11 ===
[[Image:o11.gif]]

* r' R2 U R' U R U2 R' U r R'
* y2 r U R' U R' F R F' R U2 r'

=== OLL 12 ===
[[Image:o12.gif]]

* F R U R' U' F' y F R U R' U' F'
* y F R U R2 F R y' R2 U R U2 R'
* y' r R2 U' R U' R' U2 R U' R r'

|}

==Fish shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 9 ===
[[Image:o9.gif]]

* y' R' U' R y' x' R U' R' F R U R' x
* y' R U R' U' R' F R2 U R' U' F'

=== OLL 10 ===
[[Image:o10.gif]]

* y' R U R' y R' F R U' R' F' R

* y' R' U' R U R B' R2 U' R U B
||

=== OLL 35 ===
[[Image:o35.gif]]

* R U2 R2' F R F' R U2 R'

=== OLL 37 ===
[[Image:o37.gif]]

* x' U' R U l' U' R' U R
* l U' R' U y' R U R' U' z'
* y F R U' R' U' R U R' F'
* y R' F R F' U' F' U F
* R B' R' B U B U' B'

|}

==Knight move shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 13 ===
[[Image:o13.gif]]

* F U R U' R2 F' R U R U' R'
* y2 x' R U' R' F' R U R' x y R' U R
* y2 f R U R2 U' R' U R U' f'
* r U' r' U' r U r' y' R' U R

=== OLL 14 ===
[[Image:o14.gif]]

* R' F R U R' F' R y' R U' R'
* y' R' U' y' R' U R2 B R' U' R' U R
* y2 B' U' R' U R2 B R' U' R' U R
||

=== OLL 15 ===
[[Image:o15.gif]]

* y2 R' F' R L' U' L U R' F R
* r' U' r R' U' R U r' U r

=== OLL 16 ===
[[Image:o16.gif]]

* y2 r U r' R U R' U' r U' r'
* y2 r U M U R' U' r U' r'

|}

==Awkward shapes==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 29 ===
[[Image:o29.gif]]

* y2 R' F R F' R U2 R' d' L' U' L
* y2 R2' U' R F R' U R2' U' R' F' R
* y (R U R' U') (R U' R' F') U' (F R U R')
* y R' U2 R2 U R' U' R' U2 F R F'
* M U (R U R' U') (R' F R F') M'

=== OLL 30 ===
[[Image:o30.gif]]

* l U' R' U l' U2 d L U L'
* f R U R2 U' R' U R2 U' R' f'
* y2 F U R U' x' U R' D' R U' R'
* R2' U R' B' R U' R2' U R B R'

||

=== OLL 41 ===
[[Image:o41.gif]]

* R U' R' U2 R U y R U' R' U' F'
* y R U2' R' U' R U' R2 (y) L' U' L U F
* y2 F U R U' R' F' R' U2 R U R' U R
* y2 R U R' U R U2 R' F R U R' U' F'
* y2 R2 L z' l' U' R d L U' L l'

=== OLL 42 ===
[[Image:o42.gif]]

* L' U L U2 L' U' y' L' U L U F
* y R' U2 R U R' U R2 y R U R' U' F'
* y R' F R F' R' F R F' R U R' U' R U R'
* y2 L2 R' z r U L' d' R' U R' r

|}

==All Corners Oriented==
{|border="0" width="100%" valign="top"
|-valign="top"
|width="50%"|
|width="50%"|
|-valign="top"
|

=== OLL 28 ===
[[Image:o28.gif]]

* r U R' U' r' R U R U' R'
* F R U R' U' F' U2 F R U R' U' F'
* y2 M' U M U2 M' U M
* M U M' U2 M U M'

||

=== OLL 57 ===
[[Image:o57.gif]]

* R U R' U' r R' U R U' r'
* (x') M' U' R U M U' R' U (x)
* M U M U M U2 M' U M' U M' U2
* y M' U M' U M' U M' U M' U' M' U' M' U' M' U'

|}

[[Category:3x3x3 methods]]
[[Category:Cubing abbreviations and acronyms]]
[[Category:Algorithms]]

General Information

2009-05-26T21:55:43Z

Lord Voldemort: /* Competitions and record times */

The [[Rubik's Cube]] is a mechanical [[puzzle]] invented in 1974 by Hungarian sculptor and professor of architecture [[Ernő Rubik]]. Originally called the "Magic Cube" by its inventor, this puzzle was renamed "Rubik's Cube" by [[Ideal Toys]] in 1980 and won the German Game of the Year special award for Best Puzzle that year. It is said to be the world's best-selling toy, with over 300,000,000 Rubik's Cubes and imitations sold worldwide.

In a classic Rubik's Cube, each of the six [[face]]s is covered by 9 [[sticker]]s, among six solid colours (traditionally being white, yellow, orange, red, blue, and green). A pivot mechanism enables each face to turn independently, thus mixing up the colours. For the puzzle to be [[solve]]d, each face must be a solid colour.

The Cube celebrated its twenty-fifth anniversary in 2005, when a special edition was released, featuring a sticker in the centre of the reflective face (which replaced the white face) with a "Rubik's Cube 1980-2005" logo, and different packaging. There exist four widely available variations: the [[2×2×2]] (Pocket Cube, also Mini Cube, Junior Cube, or Ice Cube), the standard [[3×3×3]] cube, the [[4×4×4]] (Rubik's Revenge, or Master Cube), and the [[5×5×5]] (Professor's Cube). Recently, larger sizes are also on the market ([[V-Cube 6]] and [[V-Cube 7]]). All of these items belong to a broad category of puzzles commonly referred to as "[[twisty puzzle]]s".

For readability, 3x3x3 is frequently abbreviated 3×3 (and similarly for the other sizes) when there is no ambiguity. Common misspellings include "rubix cube", "rubics cube", "rubick's cube", and "rubiks cube".

== Conception and development ==
In March 1970, Larry Nichols invented a 2×2×2 "Puzzle with Pieces Rotatable in Groups" and filed a Canadian patent application for it. Nichols's cube was held together with magnets. Nichols was granted (US patent|3655201) on April 11, 1972, two years before Rubik invented his improved cube.

On April 9, 1970, Frank Fox applied to patent his "Spherical 3×3×3". He received his UK patent (1344259) on January 16, 1974.

Rubik invented his "[[wikt:magic cube|Magic Cube]]" in 1974 and obtained Hungarian patent HU170062 for the Magic Cube in 1975 but did not take out international patents. The first test batches of the product were produced in late 1977 and released to Budapest toy shops. Magic Cube was held together with interlocking plastic pieces that were less expensive to produce than the magnets in Nichols's design. In September 1979, a deal was signed with Ideal Toys to bring the Magic Cube to the Western world, and the puzzle made its international debut at the toy fairs of London, Paris, Nuremberg International Toy Fair|Nuremberg and New York in January and February 1980.

After its international debut, the progress of the Cube towards the toy shop shelves of the West was briefly halted so that it could be manufactured to Western safety and packaging specifications. A lighter Cube was produced, and Ideal Toys decided to rename it. "Gordian Knot|The Gordian Knot" and "Inca Gold" were considered, but the company finally decided on "Rubik's Cube", and the first batch was exported from Hungary in May 1980. Taking advantage of an initial shortage of Cubes, many cheap imitations appeared.

Nichols assigned his patent to his employer Moleculon Research Corp., which sued Ideal Toy Company in 1982. In 1984, Ideal lost the patent infringement suit and appealed. In 1986, the appeals court affirmed the judgment that Rubik's 2×2×2 Pocket Cube infringed Nichols's patent, but overturned the judgment on Rubik's 3×3×3 Cube.

Even while Rubik's patent application was being processed, Terutoshi Ishigi, a self-taught engineer and ironworks owner near Tokyo, filed for a Japanese patent for a nearly identical mechanism and was granted patent JP55‒8192 (1976); Ishigi's is generally accepted as an independent reinvention.

Rubik applied for another Hungarian patent on October 28, 1980, and applied for other patents. In the United States, Rubik was granted US patent #4378116 on March 29, 1983, for the Cube.

Greek inventor Panagiotis Verdes patented a method of creating cubes beyond the 5×5×5, up to [[11×11×11]]. His designs, which include improved mechanisms for the [[3×3×3]], [[4×4×4]], and [[5×5×5]], are suitable for [[speedcubing]], whereas existing designs for cubes larger than 5×5×5 are prone to break. As of June 19, 2008, 5x5x5, [[6x6x6]], and [[7x7x7]] models are available ([http://www.v-cubes.com/ V-Cube Official Site].

==Workings==

A standard cube measures approximately 2¼ inches (5.7 cm) on each side. The puzzle consists of the twenty-six unique miniature cubes on the surface. However, the centre cube of each face is merely a single square façade; all are affixed to the core mechanisms. These provide structure for the other pieces to fit into and rotate around. So there are twenty-one pieces: a single [[core]] piece consisting of three intersecting axes holding the six [[centre]] squares in place but letting them rotate, and twenty smaller plastic pieces which fit into it to form the assembled puzzle. The Cube can be taken apart without much difficulty, typically by turning one side through a 45° angle and prying an [[edge]] cube away from a centre cube until it dislodges. However, as prying loose a [[corner]] cube is a good way to break off a centre cube — thus ruining the Cube — it is far safer to lever a centre cube out using a screwdriver. It is a very simple process to solve a Cube by taking it apart and reassembling it in a solved state. There are twelve edge pieces which show two coloured sides each, and eight corner pieces which show three colours. Each piece shows a unique colour combination, but not all combinations are present (for example, if red and orange are on opposite sides of the solved Cube, there is no edge piece with both red and orange sides). The location of these cubes relative to one another can be altered by twisting an outer third of the Cube 90°, 180° or 270°, but the location of the coloured sides relative to one another in the completed state of the puzzle cannot be altered: it is fixed by the relative positions of the centre squares and the distribution of colour combinations on edge and corner pieces.

For most recent Cubes, the colours of the stickers are red opposite orange, yellow opposite white, and green opposite blue. However, Cubes with alternative colour arrangements also exist; for example, they might have the yellow face opposite the green, and the blue face opposite the white (with red and orange opposite faces remaining unchanged).

Douglas R. Hofstader, in the July 1982 ''Scientific American'', pointed out that Cubes could be coloured in such a way as to emphasise the corners or edges, rather than the faces as the standard colouring does; but neither of these alternative colourings has ever been produced commercially.

===Permutations===
A normal (3×3×3) Rubik's Cube has eight corners and twelve edges. There are <tex>8!</tex> ways to arrange the corner cubies. Seven can be oriented independently, and the orientation of the eighth depends on the preceding seven, giving <tex>3^7</tex> possibilities. There are <tex>12!/2</tex> ways to arrange the edges, since an odd permutation of the corners implies an odd permutation of the edges as well. Eleven edges can be flipped independently, with the flip of the twelfth depending on the preceding ones, giving <tex>2^11</tex> possibilities.
:<tex> {8! \cdot 3^7 \cdot 12! \cdot 2^{10}} \approx 4.33 \cdot 10^{19}</tex>

There are exactly <tex>43,252,003,274,489,856,000</tex> possibilities. In other words, there are forty-three quintillion or forty-three trillion possibilities. The puzzle is often advertised as having only billions of positions, as the larger numbers could be regarded as incomprehensible to many. To put this into perspective, if every permutation of a 57-millimeter Rubik's Cube were lined up end to end, it would stretch out approximately 261 light years.

The preceding figure is limited to permutations that can be reached solely by turning the sides of the cube. If one considers permuations reached through disassembly of the cube, the number becomes twelve times as large:
:<tex> {8! \cdot 3^8 \cdot 12! \cdot 2^{12}} \approx 5.19 \cdot 10^{20}</tex>

The full number is <tex>519,024,039,293,878,272,000</tex> or 519 quintillion possible arrangements of the pieces that make up the Cube, but only one in twelve of these are actually solveable. This is because there is no sequence of moves that will swap a single pair of pieces or rotate a single corner or edge cube. Thus there are twelve possible sets of reachable configurations, sometimes called "universes" or "orbits", into which the cube can be placed by dismantling and reassembling it.

Despite the vast number of positions, all Cubes can be solved in twenty-five or fewer moves (see [[Optimal solutions for Rubik's Cube]]).

The large number of permutations is often given as a measure of the Rubik's cube's complexity. However, the puzzle's difficulty does not necessarily follow from the large number of permutations. The problem of putting the 26 letters of the alphabet in alphabetical order has a larger complexity (<tex>26! = 4.03x10^26</tex> possible orderings), but is less difficult.

===Centre faces===
The original (official) Rubik's Cube has no orientation markings on the centre faces, although some carried the words "Rubik's Cube" on the centre square of the white face, and therefore solving it does not require any attention to orienting those faces correctly. However, if one has a marker pen, one could, for example, mark the central squares of an unshuffled Cube with four coloured marks on each edge, each corresponding to the colour of the adjacent face. Some Cubes have also been produced commercially with markings on all of the squares, such as the Lo Shu magic square or playing card suits. Thus one can scramble and then unscramble the Cube yet have the markings on the centers rotated, and it becomes an additional test to "solve" the centers as well. This is known as "supercubing".

Putting markings on the Rubik's Cube increases the difficulty mainly because it expands the set of distinguishable possible configurations. When the Cube is unscrambled apart from the orientations of the central squares, there will always be an even number of squares requiring a quarter turn. Thus there are 4<sup>6</sup>/2 = 2,048 possible configurations of the centre squares in the otherwise unscrambled position, increasing the total number of possible Cube permutations from 43,252,003,274,489,856,000 (<tex>4.3×10^19</tex>) to 88,580,102,706,155,225,088,000 (<tex>8.9×10^22</tex>).

==Solutions==
Many general solutions for the Rubik's Cube have been discovered independently. The most popular method was developed by [[David Singmaster]] and published in the book ''Notes on Rubik's "Magic Cube"'' in 1981. This solution involves solving the Cube layer by layer, in which one layer, designated the top, is solved first, followed by the middle layer, and then the final and bottom layer. After practice, solving the Cube layer by layer can be done in under one minute. Other general solutions include "corners first" methods or combinations of several other methods.
Most tutorials teach the layer by layer method, as it gives an easy-to-understand step-by-step guide on how to solve it.

Speedcubing solutions have been developed for solving the Rubik's Cube as quickly as possible. The most common speedcubing solution was developed by [[Jessica Fridrich]]. It is a very efficient layer-by-layer method that requires a large number of algorithms (see below), especially for orienting and permuting the last layer. The first-layer corners and second layer are done simultaneously, with each corner paired up with a second-layer edge piece. Another well-known method was developed by [[Lars Petrus]]. In this method, a 2×2×2 section is solved first, followed by a 2×2×3, and then the incorrect edges are solved using a three-move algorithm, which eliminates the need for a possible 32-move algorithm later.
One of the advantages of this method is that it tends to give solutions in fewer moves. For this reason, the method is also popular for fewest move competitions.

Solutions follow a series of steps and include a set of algorithms for solving each step. An algorithm, also known as a process or an operator, is a series of twists that accomplishes a particular goal. For instance, one algorithm might switch the locations of three corner pieces, while leaving the rest of the pieces in place. Basic solutions require learning as few as four or five algorithms but are generally inefficient, needing around 100 twists on average to solve an entire Cube. In comparison, [[Fridrich Method|Fridrich's advanced solution]] requires learning roughly 120 algorithms but allows the Cube to be solved in only 55 moves on average. A different kind of solution developed by Ryan Heise<ref>[http://www.ryanheise.com/cube/ Ryan Heise's method]</ref> uses no algorithms but rather teaches a set of underlying principles that can be used to solve in fewer than 40 moves. A number of complete solutions can also be found in any of the books listed in the bibliography, and most can be used to solve any Cube in under five minutes.
=== Algorithms ===
In Rubik's cubists' parlance, an ''algorithm'' means "a memorized sequence of moves whose effect on the cube is known". This fully conforms with the mathematical and logical use of [[algorithm]] defined as ''a list of well-defined instructions for completing a task from a given initial state, through well-defined successive states, to a desired end-state''. A Rubik's cube algorithm transforms the state of the cube in such a way that a small part of the cube becomes solved without "scrambling" any parts that have previously been solved, or else places the cube in a state from which the solver knows it can now be partly, or fully, solved by the application of further algorithms.

For instance, if we label the six sides of a cube like the six sides of a die, the sequence of movements 116622553344 will have a definite effect, namely, it will transform a solved cube into a cube with an "X" design in each face. More complicated sequences of movements will have more useful results, such as swapping three corners of the third layer without moving any other pieces. The sequences that are useful to solve the cube are called "algorithms".

=== The search for optimal solutions ===
The manual solution methods described above are intended to be easy to learn, but much effort has gone into finding even faster solutions to the Rubik's Cube.

In 1982, David Singmaster and Alexander Frey hypothesized that the number of moves needed to solve the Rubik's Cube, given an ideal algorithm, might be in "the low twenties". In 2007, Daniel Kunkle and Gene Cooperman used computer search methods to demonstrate that any 3×3×3 Rubik's Cube configuration can be solved in a maximum of 26 moves.

In 2008, Tomas Rokicki lowered the maximum to 22 moves.

Work continues to try to reduce the upper bound on optimal solutions.
The arrangement known as the super-flip, where every edge is in its correct position but flipped, requires 20 moves to be solved (Using the official [[notation]], these are: U R2 F B R B2 R U2 L B2 R U' D' R2 F R' L B2 U2 F2). No arrangement of the Rubik's Cube has been discovered so far that requires more than 20 moves to solve.

===Competitions and record times===

Many [[speedcubing]] competitions have been held to determine who can solve the Rubik's Cube in the shortest time. The number of contests is going up every year; there were 72 official competitions from 2003 to 2006; 33 were in 2006 alone.

The first world championship organized by the ''Guinness Book of World Records'' was held in Munich on March 13, 1981. All Cubes were moved 40 times and rubbed with petroleum jelly. The official winner, with a record of 38 seconds, was Jury Froeschl, born in Munich.

The first international world championship was held in Budapest on June 5, 1982, and was won by [[Minh Thai]], a Vietnamese student from Los Angeles, California, with a time of 22.95 seconds.

Since 2003, competitions are decided by the best average of 5, dropping the best and worst time and averaging the middle 3 solves. The [[World Cube Association]] maintains a database of all World Cube Association official attempts. In 2004, the WCA made it mandatory to use a special timing device called a Stackmat timer.

The [http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/results/regions.php current world record] for single time is set by Erik Akkersdijk in 2008; he set a world record best of 7.08 seconds on June 12, 2008 at the Czech Open 2008. The world record average solve was set by Tomasz Zolnowski in 2009; he set a world record average of 10.63 seconds on Apr 4, 2009 at the Warsaw Open 2009.

===Alternative competitions===

In addition, alternative competitions are held (these are official WCA recognized events). These include:
*Blindfolded solving
[http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/results/events.php?eventId=333bf&regionId=&years=&show=100%2BPersons&single=Single Rubik's 3x3x3 Cube: Blindfolded records]
*Solving the Cube using a single hand
[http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/results/events.php?eventId=333oh&regionId=&years=&show=100%2BPersons&single=Single Rubik's 3x3x3 Cube: One-handed]
*Solving the Cube with one's feet
[http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/results/events.php?eventId=333ft&regionId=&years=only%2B2006&show=100%2BPersons&single=Single Rubik's 3x3x3 Cube: With feet]