The Rubik’s Cube, a seemingly simple yet mind-bending puzzle, has captivated millions worldwide. While solving it may seem impossible to beginners, seasoned cubers know it’s all about patterns, algorithms, and shortcuts. Whether you’re a novice aiming to solve the cube for the first time or someone looking to improve your solving time, understanding the trick to solve cube efficiently can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best Rubik’s Cube hacks and shortcuts to help you crack the puzzle faster.
1. Understand the Cube’s Basics
Before diving into hacks and tricks, it’s crucial to understand how the Rubik’s Cube works. The standard cube has six faces, each with nine stickers of the same color when solved. There are three main types of pieces:
- Centers: Fixed, one on each face, indicating the face’s color.
- Edges: Pieces with two colors, located between the corners.
- Corners: Pieces with three colors, found at the cube’s corners.
Understanding this structure will make it easier to follow solving algorithms and apply shortcuts effectively.
2. Learn the Beginner’s Method First
Even if you’re aiming for speed, it’s essential to start with the beginner’s method, which involves solving the cube layer by layer. The basic steps are:
- Solve the white cross.
- Complete the first layer corners.
- Solve the second layer edges.
- Create the yellow cross on top.
- Position the yellow corners correctly.
- Finish by solving the final layer edges.
Once you understand the beginner’s method, you’ll find it easier to apply the following advanced tricks.
3. Use CFOP Method for Speedcubing
The CFOP method (Cross, F2L, OLL, PLL) is the most popular speedcubing technique. Here’s a breakdown:
- Cross: Solve the cross on one side (usually white).
- F2L (First Two Layers): Solve the first two layers by pairing corner and edge pieces together.
- OLL (Orientation of Last Layer): Make all top layer pieces yellow, ignoring their positions.
- PLL (Permutation of Last Layer): Move the yellow pieces to their correct positions.
Learning CFOP takes practice but drastically reduces solving time once mastered.
4. Top Hacks and Shortcuts for Faster Solving
Finger Tricks
- Use your fingers, not your whole hand, to rotate the cube.
- Practice flicking the U (top) layer with your index finger.
- Use thumbs for D (bottom) layer moves.
- Minimize hand repositioning to maintain flow.
Lookahead Technique
- While solving one piece, scan the cube for the next piece.
- Avoid pausing between moves.
- Practice slow, deliberate solving to improve lookahead skills.
Optimize Cross Solution
- Plan the entire cross solution during inspection (15 seconds before the timer starts).
- Solve the cross in 8 moves or fewer whenever possible.
Advanced F2L Tricks
- Instead of solving corners and edges separately, pair them together and insert as a unit.
- Learn common F2L algorithms for tricky cases.
- Use intuitive moves first, then transition to algorithms.
Two-Look OLL and PLL
If full CFOP is overwhelming, start with two-look OLL and PLL:
- Two-Look OLL: Solve the yellow cross first, then orient corners.
- Two-Look PLL: Position the corners first, then the edges.
This method reduces the number of algorithms needed while improving efficiency.
5. Memorize Key Algorithms
While it might seem daunting, memorizing essential algorithms is the fastest trick to solve the cube efficiently. Here are the most important ones:
Cross Formation (Beginner’s Method)
- F R U R’ U’ F’
F2L Insertion
- U’ L U L’
OLL Algorithms (for Yellow Face)
- Sune: R U R’ U R U2 R’
- Anti-Sune: L’ U’ L U’ L’ U2 L
PLL Algorithms (Final Layer Permutation)
- H Perm: M2 U M2 U2 M2 U M2
- T Perm: R U R’ U’ R’ F R2 U’ R’ U’ R U R’ F’
Start with the most common algorithms and gradually build your knowledge.
6. Use Cube Notation for Faster Learning
Understanding cube notation is essential for reading algorithms. Here’s a quick guide:
- R: Right face clockwise
- R’: Right face counterclockwise
- U: Upper face clockwise
- U’: Upper face counterclockwise
- F: Front face clockwise
- F’: Front face counterclockwise
- D: Down face clockwise
- D’: Down face counterclockwise
- L: Left face clockwise
- L’: Left face counterclockwise
- M: Middle layer turn (between L and R)
Practicing notation ensures you can quickly follow algorithms without confusion.
7. Practice Efficiently and Consistently
Improving your Rubik’s Cube solving time requires consistent practice. Here’s how to make your practice sessions more effective:
- Practice slow solving: Focus on accuracy and lookahead rather than speed.
- Use a timer: Track progress with apps like Cubing Time or CS Timer.
- Drill algorithms: Practice common algorithms until they become second nature.
- Record solves: Watching your solves can highlight inefficiencies.
- Join cubing communities: Engage with forums like SpeedSolving.com or join local cubing clubs.
8. Maintain Your Cube for Better Performance
A well-maintained cube can significantly improve your solving experience. Follow these tips:
- Lubricate the cube: Use silicone-based lubricants for smoother turns.
- Adjust tension: Balance tightness for stability and speed.
- Clean regularly: Dust and debris can slow down performance.
Upgrading to a speedcube like the Gan 356, MoYu RS3M, or DianSheng Solar S3M can further enhance speed and control.
9. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the best hacks, common mistakes can hinder progress. Watch out for:
- Rushing: Speed comes with practice, not frantic moves.
- Ignoring lookahead: Always plan your next move.
- Skipping fundamentals: Master beginner methods before advanced techniques.
- Neglecting practice: Consistency matters more than intensity.
10. How Fast Can You Get with These Hacks?
With consistent practice and these shortcuts, here’s what you can expect:
- Beginner: 2–5 minutes
- Intermediate: 1–2 minutes
- Advanced: 30–60 seconds
- Speedcuber: Under 20 seconds
Top cubers, like Feliks Zemdegs and Max Park, solve the cube in under 7 seconds, thanks to optimized techniques and years of practice.
Conclusion
Solving the Rubik’s Cube faster isn’t just about speed—it’s about efficiency, pattern recognition, and smart shortcuts. By mastering finger tricks, lookahead, the CFOP method, and key algorithms, you can significantly reduce your solving time. Consistent practice, combined with a well-maintained cube, will help you crack the puzzle with ease.
Whether you’re solving for fun, competition, or simply to impress friends, these Rubik’s Cube hacks will put you on the path to becoming a faster, more confident cuber.
