How to Solve a Rubik's Cube? Explained in Simple Steps

Three billion combinations and one solution—these are the fascinating numbers behind the iconic Rubik's Cube, a puzzle that has captivated enthusiasts for decades. But don't be intimidated by its mathematical implications because solving this puzzle isn't reserved for geniuses. The steps outlining How to Solve a Rubik's Cube in this blog will show you how you can turn this colourful 3D enigma into a fun and rewarding activity. All you need is the right combo of twists and turns to conquer the cube again and again. So, let's dive in! 

Table of Contents

1) Understanding the Rubik's Cube

2) The Basics of a Rubik's Cube 

3) Steps to Solve a Rubik's Cube 

   a) Create the First Layer Cross 

   b) Solve the First Layer of Corners  

   c) Align the Second Layer 

   d) Form the Third Layer Cross 

   e) Position the Third Layer Corners 

4) How to Solve 3 into 3 Cubes? 

5) How to Solve Rubik's Cube in 20 Moves?

6) Conclusion 

Understanding the Rubik's Cube

The Rubik's Cube is a 3D puzzle made up of smaller coloured squares on a rotating mechanism. The objective is to arrange the cube so that each side displays a single, solid colour. It requires spatial reasoning, pattern recognition, and problem-solving skills to solve by turning its segments in specific sequences.

Start by aligning the white side, then work on solving the middle layer, followed by the top layer. As you twist the cube, you need to match colours systematically. For instance, turning the top layer to align the yellow centre with corresponding yellow pieces.

The Basics of a Rubik's Cube 

A Rubik's Cube is a 3D combination puzzle involving a cube with six faces, each with nine coloured squares. The objective of the puzzle is to twist and turn the faces to return the cube to its original state, where each face consists of one colour. Before we dive into the exciting process of solving the Rubik's Cube, let’s explore its basic aspects: 

1) Colours: The cube has six sides, each representing a colour: green, orange, white, yellow, blue, and red.  

2) Pieces: There are three types of pieces:  

a) Centres: These pieces stay fixed and serve as a guiding point for solving the puzzle. On a solved cube, all the pieces of a specific colour surround the centre of that colour. Meanwhile, on a scrambled cube, the centre is the side on which the pieces of any particular colour are supposed to be. 

b) Corners: The corner pieces are located on the cube's corners. Any cube has eight corners, and thus, there are eight corners on the Rubik's Cube. 

c) Edges: The edges are the pieces between two corners and are made up of two colours. There are 12 edges on the Rubik's Cube.
 

Steps to Solve a Rubik's Cube 

Now that we’ve laid down the basics of a Rubik's Cube, let’s explore the steps you’ll need to take to solve it. The method presented here involves five steps and is solved layer by layer. The layers are as follows: 

1) First Layer: White cross and white corners 

2) Second Layer: Non-yellow edges 

3) Last Layer: Yellow cross, yellow corners and edges and the top layer 

Learn to harness your critical problem-solving abilities with our Creative and Analytical Thinking Training - Sign up now! 

Create the First Layer Cross 

Following these steps to create the first layer: 

a) Keep the white centre on top. 

b) Keep the green centrepiece in front facing you. 

c) Find the green/ white edge piece and turn it to a position where the white is on top, and the green is in front. 

d) Choose the options below that match your situation and follow the steps (Shown in arrows) to place the green/ white edge piece in place.
 

Keeping White on top, turn the cube so that a different colour face is toward you. Repeat the above instructions with the other two faces until the White cross is complete.
 

Solve the First Layer of Corners  

These steps will help you solve the corners: 

a) Keep the white cross on top. 

b) Put the green centre piece facing you. 

c) Find the green/white/red corner and place it between the green and red centres without disturbing the white cross. You do this by turning only the bottom layer. 

d) Put the green/white/red corner piece in place without disturbing the white cross.
 

Master the nuances of musical expression and interpretation in our comprehensive Piano Course - register now! 

Align the Second Layer 

This is the middle step: 

a) Keep the white face on top. 

b) Find the green/red edge piece. 

c) If it's in the bottom layer, turn the bottom layer to match the edge with the centre colour.  

d) Select from the steps below to bring the edge piece in place, which will be to the Right or Left.
 

Form the Third Layer Cross 

Now we are at the final steps of the process: 

a) Turn the cube over (Now white is on the bottom, and the yellow centre is on top). 

b) You should find zero, two or four pieces (of the cross) facing upward. For now, you can ignore the corners.   

c) Perform the algorithm given below to get to the yellow cross.
 

Repeat this process till you see the yellow cross. 

Now swap the edge pieces to the correct position: 

a) Rotate the top layer until two or four edge pieces match the centre colours. 

b) Ensure the intended edge pieces are at the back and right face. 

c) Use the algorithm below to place the edge pieces in the correct position.
 

Position the Third Layer Corners 

First you must put the corners in the correct position. You will now have either zero, one or all the corner pieces will be in their proper positions, either the right way up or reversed. If a corner piece is in the correct corner, turn the cube to the proper corner in the front top right position. The piece is properly positioned but may not be turned correctly.
 

Repeat the sequence until every corner is in the correct position. In case none of the corners is in the correct position, perform the above-mentioned steps once with any side facing you (yellow must be at the top). Now, one corner will be in the proper position.
 

Keep the same side facing you, as it'll only be solved once the final corner is orientated. Repeat the above moves until the yellow side of the corner piece is on top. With the same side still facing you, rotate only the top layer until the next corner piece to be rotated is positioned in the top-right corner. Repeat the above sequence until the corner's yellow side you are rotating is on top. Continue with the process until the cube is complete. 

How to Solve 3 into 3 Cubes?

Start by solving the white cross, then solve the white corners. Next, complete the middle layer by positioning the edge pieces. Lastly, solve the yellow cross, orient the yellow corners, and permute them to solve the cube completely. Use algorithms for each stage to simplify the process.

Master the nuances of musical expression and interpretation in our comprehensive Piano Course - register now!

How to Solve Rubik's Cube in 20 Moves?

Solving in 20 moves is known as "God’s Number." Using advanced algorithms, optimising each step, and understanding cube theory, you can reduce moves. Focus on efficient edge orientation, corner positioning, and utilise pre-solved patterns to minimise the moves while completing the cube.

Conclusion 

Solving a Rubik's Cube is all about following a series of precise steps, making this challenge achievable by anyone. Learning How to Solve a Rubik's Cube can be an enjoyable pastime, a confidence booster, and even a great party trick. The steps outlined in this blog will help you easily handle this iconic 3D puzzle. 

Looking to turn your casual hobby into a fulfilling career? Our Hobbies & Interests Courses will lead the way – Sign up now!