Greetings to all the puzzle enthusiasts out there! Are you struggling to solve the infamous Rubik’s Cube 3×3? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered! In this article, we will walk you through a step-by-step guide to help you solve it once and for all. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cuber, this guide is perfect for you. So, let’s get started!
The History of Rubik’s Cube
Before we dive into the solving methods, let’s take a brief look at the history of the Rubik’s Cube. The cube was invented in 1974 by a Hungarian sculptor and professor of architecture, Erno Rubik. Originally, Rubik created the cube as a teaching tool to help his students understand three-dimensional geometry. Little did he know, his invention would become one of the most popular and challenging puzzles of all time.
The cube was first introduced to the public in Hungary in 1977 and received an overwhelming response. Later, in 1980, the cube was licensed to be sold internationally, and it quickly became a sensation, selling more than 350 million cubes worldwide to date.
Why Solve a Rubik’s Cube?
Now, you might be wondering, why solve a Rubik’s Cube? What’s the point? Well, there are several reasons why you should attempt to solve this puzzle:
| Reasons to Solve a Rubik’s Cube | Emoji |
|---|---|
| Improve problem-solving skills | 🧠 |
| Enhance hand-eye coordination | 👁️🗨️ |
| Increase perseverance and patience | ⏳ |
| Reduce stress and anxiety | 🧘 |
The Notations and Symbols Used
Before we start solving the cube, you need to understand the notations and symbols that we will be using throughout this guide:
Cube Notations
| Notation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| F | Front Side (clockwise) |
| F’ | Front Side (counter-clockwise) |
| B | Back Side (clockwise) |
| B’ | Back Side (counter-clockwise) |
| R | Right Side (clockwise) |
| R’ | Right Side (counter-clockwise) |
| L | Left Side (clockwise) |
| L’ | Left Side (counter-clockwise) |
| U | Upper Side (clockwise) |
| U’ | Upper Side (counter-clockwise) |
| D | Down Side (clockwise) |
| D’ | Down Side (counter-clockwise) |
Symbols Used
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| x | Turn the entire cube on the x-axis |
| y | Turn the entire cube on the y-axis |
| z | Turn the entire cube on the z-axis |
How to Solve a Rubik’s Cube 3×3
Now, let’s dive into the main part of the guide, the solving methods. We will be using the beginner’s method, which consists of several steps:
Step 1: Solving the White Cross
The first step is to solve the white cross. This involves finding the white edge pieces and placing them on the correct sides of the cube. Here’s how you can solve the white cross:
Step 1.1: Finding the White Edge Pieces
The first thing you need to do is find the white edge pieces. These are the pieces that have white on them and are located on the edges of the cube. Look for these pieces and make sure they are lined up correctly.
Step 1.2: Placing the White Edge Pieces
Next, you need to place the white edge pieces on the correct sides of the cube. To do this, follow these steps:
- Find the white edge piece that belongs on the left side of the cube and position it in front of you with the white side facing up.
- Turn the left side of the cube until the white edge piece matches up with the center piece of the left side.
- If the white edge piece is in the correct position but facing the wrong way, use the F’ or F moves to bring it to the front side, then use the L or L’ move to place it on the left side.
- Repeat this process for the right side, upper side, and down side.
Step 2: Solving the White Corners
The next step is to solve the white corners. This involves finding the white corner pieces and placing them on the correct sides of the cube. Here’s how you can solve the white corners:
Step 2.1: Finding the White Corner Pieces
The first thing you need to do is find the white corner pieces. These are the pieces that have white on them and are located on the corners of the cube. Look for these pieces and make sure they are lined up correctly.
Step 2.2: Placing the White Corner Pieces
Next, you need to place the white corner pieces on the correct sides of the cube. To do this, follow these steps:
- Find a white corner piece that belongs on the upper left side of the cube and position it so that it is directly above its correct position on the cube.
- Perform the R’ D’ R D move to place the corner in its correct position.
- Repeat this process for the other three corners.
Step 3: Solving the Second Layer
The third step is to solve the second layer. This involves finding the edge pieces and placing them on the correct sides of the cube. Here’s how you can solve the second layer:
Step 3.1: Finding the Edge Pieces
The first thing you need to do is find the edge pieces that belong on the second layer. These are the pieces that have two colors on them and are located on the edges of the cube. Look for these pieces and make sure they are lined up correctly.
Step 3.2: Placing the Edge Pieces
Next, you need to place the edge pieces on the correct sides of the cube. To do this, follow these steps:
- Find an edge piece that belongs on the second layer and position it so that it is directly below its correct position on the cube.
- Perform the U’ R’ U R U F U’ F’ move to place the edge in its correct position.
- Repeat this process for the other three edge pieces.
Step 4: Solving the Yellow Cross
The fourth step is to solve the yellow cross. This involves finding the yellow edge pieces and placing them on the correct sides of the cube. Here’s how you can solve the yellow cross:
Step 4.1: Finding the Yellow Edge Pieces
The first thing you need to do is find the yellow edge pieces. These are the pieces that have yellow on them and are located on the edges of the cube. Look for these pieces and make sure they are lined up correctly.
Step 4.2: Placing the Yellow Edge Pieces
Next, you need to place the yellow edge pieces on the correct sides of the cube. To do this, follow these steps:
- Find a yellow edge piece that belongs on the front side of the cube and position it so that it is directly below its correct position on the cube.
- Perform the F U R U’ R’ F’ move to place the edge in its correct position.
- If the cross is not complete, perform the following moves:
- Hold the cube so that the two yellow edge pieces that are not in the correct position are located at the back of the cube.
- Perform the F R U R’ U’ F’ move to switch the two yellow edge pieces so that they are in their correct positions.
- Repeat this process until the yellow cross is complete.
Step 5: Solving the Yellow Corners
The fifth step is to solve the yellow corners. This involves finding the yellow corner pieces and placing them on the correct sides of the cube. Here’s how you can solve the yellow corners:
Step 5.1: Finding the Yellow Corner Pieces
The first thing you need to do is find the yellow corner pieces. These are the pieces that have yellow on them and are located on the corners of the cube. Look for these pieces and make sure they are lined up correctly.
Step 5.2: Placing the Yellow Corner Pieces
Next, you need to place the yellow corner pieces on the correct sides of the cube. To do this, follow these steps:
- Find a yellow corner piece that belongs in the upper right position of the cube and position it so that it is directly below its correct position.
- Perform the R U R’ U R U2 R’ move to place the corner in its correct position.
- If the corner is in its correct position but facing the wrong way, perform the U’ R U R’ U’ R U2 R’ move to turn it in the correct direction.
- Repeat this process for the other three corners.
Step 6: Solving the Cube
The final step is to solve the cube. This involves finding the edge pieces and placing them on the correct sides of the cube. Here’s how you can solve the cube:
Step 6.1: Finding the Edge Pieces
The first thing you need to do is find the edge pieces that belong on the last layer. These are the pieces that have one color on them and are located on the edges of the cube. Look for these pieces and make sure they are lined up correctly.
Step 6.2: Placing the Edge Pieces
Next, you need to place the edge pieces on the correct sides of the cube. To do this, follow these steps:
- Find an edge piece that belongs on the last layer and position it so that it is directly below its correct position on the cube.
- Perform the U R U’ L’ U R’ U’ L move to place the edge in its correct position.
- If the edge is in its correct position but facing the wrong way, perform the D R’ D’ L D R D’ L’ move to turn it in the correct direction.
- Repeat this process for the other three edge pieces.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use different algorithms to solve the Rubik’s Cube?
Yes, there are several different algorithms that you can use to solve the Rubik’s Cube. However, the beginner’s method is the easiest and most straightforward method for beginners.
2. How long does it take to solve the Rubik’s Cube?
The time it takes to solve the Rubik’s Cube varies from person to person. Some people can solve it in a matter of seconds, while others may take several minutes or even hours.
3. What is the world record for solving the Rubik’s Cube?
The current world record for solving the Rubik’s Cube is 3.47 seconds, set by Yusheng Du from China in 2018.
4. Can I use an app to solve the Rubik’s Cube?
Yes, there are several apps available that can help you solve the Rubik’s Cube. However, we recommend using physical cubes for the best experience.
5. Do I need any special equipment to solve the Rubik’s Cube?
No, you don’t need any special equipment to solve the Rubik’s Cube. All you need is a Rubik’s Cube and some patience.
6. Is it possible to solve the Rubik’s Cube without memorizing algorithms?
Yes, it is possible to solve the Rubik’s Cube without memorizing algorithms. However, it may take longer to solve it using this method.
7. What are the benefits of solving the Rubik’s Cube?
Solving the Rubik’s Cube can improve problem-solving skills, enhance hand-eye coordination, increase perseverance and patience, and reduce stress and anxiety.
8. What is the best way to lubricate a Rubik’s Cube?
The best way to lubricate a Rubik’s Cube is to use silicone-based lubricants. Apply a small amount of lubricant to the cube’s core and work it into the cube’s pieces.
9. How can I make my Rubik’s Cube turn faster?
You can make your Rubik’s Cube turn faster by lubricating it with silicone-based lubricants and adjusting the tension of the cube’s screws.
10. Can I customize my Rubik’s Cube with different stickers?
Yes, you can customize your Rubik’s Cube with different stickers. However, be sure to only use high-quality stickers that won’t damage the cube’s surface.
11. Where can I buy a Rubik’s Cube?
You can buy a Rubik’s Cube at most toy stores or online retailers such as Amazon or the Rubik’s Cube official website.
12. How can I maintain my Rubik’s Cube?
To maintain your Rubik’s Cube, keep it clean and dry, lubricate it regularly, and store it in a protective case.
13. Can I solve the Rubik’s Cube blindfolded?
Yes, it is possible to solve the Rubik’s Cube blindfolded using a method called Blindfolded Speedcubing. However, it requires extensive memorization and practice.
Conclusion
Congratulations, you have now learned how to solve the Rubik’s Cube 3×3! With patience and practice, you can solve the cube in no time. Remember, solving the Rubik’s Cube is not only fun but also helps you improve your problem-solving skills and hand-eye coordination. So, keep practicing and have fun!
If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them in the comments section below