I aim to teach an easy method of solving the 3 x 3 Rubik's cube that does not involve memorising algorithms, but rather understanding how you manipulate the top layer in order to have an effect on the lower layers.
It is possible to manipulate the top layer in simple patterns that will then achieve the solving of the rest of the cube.
Remembering algorithms such as R' D L D' R D L' is difficult at the best of times. And doing this in the traditional way of holding the cube with the solved side downwards is even more tricky because there are no easy-to-follow landmarks if you get lost in the algorithm.
Simply turning the cube with the solved face up and watching how these squares are moved in some simple 6-9 step patterns gives the solver some easy-to-follow landmarks, as I will show you in the next few pages.
On this first page I will outline the anatomy of a cube as understanding how it works can sometimes be enough of a 'lightbulb' moment for you to work out how to solve the cube by yourself.
A cube is made of 6 sides. For a Rubik's Cube, we call each side a 'face'. Traditonally the faces are made of White, Yellow, Red, Orange, Blue and Green.
Each face of the cube is made of 9 seperate squares:
The traditional colours (white, yellow, red, orange, blue and green), are also traditionally paired:
You will find, on a completed cube, each pair end up opposite each other:
No matter how you make up the cube, they will always have the same colours opposite each other. Why? Well, the centre square will never move.
But why? Well, the centre piece is fixed to the inner workings of the cube, and each one only spins around its own axis.
The edge and corner pieces are made like a puzzle, with shaped bits behind each cube that link together.
Corner 3D
Edge 3D
Some joined up corner and edge pieces 3D
This clever design allowes each face of the cube to rotate, but is also what holds the cube together when combined with the middle skeleton. Amazing, huh?
Here are some tips to get you started: