2x2x3
Overview
The 2x2x3, or Tower Cube, is a cuboid. It is generally considered to be a very easy puzzle, similar in difficulty to the 2x2x2.
Notation
Algorithms are written as follows: The puzzle is held with the 2x2 faces on top and bottom. U, U', D, and D' are the same as a normal NxN. E moves, which move the equator, go in the same direction as D moves. R2 is moving the right layer 180 degrees.
Methods
Beginner's Method
The Beginner's Method for 2x2x3 has three steps and two algorithms. The first step is to orient the faces with dimensions of 2x2, which can be done intuitively. Then, you permute the corners using an algorithm that swaps the two corners adjacent to each other on the right of the top face. The algorithm is R2 U R2 U' R2 U' D R2 U' R2 U R2 D'. The last step is to solve the equator layer, which is done by swapping two pieces on the right using (R2 U2)3.
Intermediate/SCE Method
The SCE Method was proposed by Ian Brown on the Speedsolving Forums. It has 12 algorithms in 3 steps. The first step is the same as in the Beginner's Method, in which you oorient the top and bottom faces. After you do that, you permute the corners using one of 7 algorithms and then permute the edges with one of 5 algorithms. The algorithms are under the headings Pure EP and Pure CP. There is also a variant known as the AG method in which you only need 5 algorithms, and you solve the equator layer intuitively while you solve the first two faces. This is theorized to be slightly faster than normal SCE.
Advanced Method
The Advanced Method for 2x2x3 has 51 algorithms and two steps. This method makes it possible to easily one-look 2x2x3 solves, as the only steps are orienting the top and bottom faces and then permuting the rest of the cube.
