Swap Stickers method

Swap Stickers method File:Swap stickers.png Information about the method Proposer(s): Many Proposed: 1980s Alt Names: Peel the stickers off Variants: Reassemble Method Resticker Method No. Steps: 1-4 No. Algs: 0 Avg Moves: 0 minimum Purpose(s): Solving

The Swap Stickers Method is a 3x3 solving method used by many non-cubers. It requires no algorithms, and is very easy to learn. Some cubes, such as tiled cubes and stickerless cubes, are not suitable for the method; it is best to use this on a cube with thin stickers.

Method

1. Rearrange the stickers so that one side is of the same color: This is quite an easy step, however some use of the table may be required to place the stickers. It is fastest to start on a side somewhat completed. Use your inspection time to find as many stickers of the same color as you can.
2. Complete another side, again with all the same color: It is a good idea to choose a side which has a lot of stickers removed, as this means you spend less time taking stickers off.
3. Repeat until two sides are unsolved.
4. Solve the last two sides: To speed this process up, attempt to take off two stickers at a time, one from each side.

Pros

• This method requires no algorithms or commutators, and is quite easy to pick up.
• You can plan quite far ahead during inspection.
• The quality of the cube's turning does not affect the solve.

Cons

• This method is not allowed in official WCA competitions.
• Sticker peeling and placing can damage the stickers, and leave a lot of residue and bumps.
• There are many rotations needed.

Variants

• Reassemble Method: This method involves taking pieces out and placing them next to the correct centers. The efficiency of this method depends a lot on the cube.
• Resticker Method: This method involves taking stickers off, and then replacing them with new stickers. A pro of this method is that it is much easier to find the stickers to place on the pieces.

See also

• Fail Method (FBF)
• Sticker