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How to solve a Rubik's cube. Secrets of assembling a Rubik's cube: elements, parts, key concepts

For more than 40 years, the Rubik's Cube has sold 350 million copies across the planet and has become one of the most popular toys of the 20th century. In 1980, every fifth inhabitant of the Earth tried to solve it, and in the 2000s, robots and computer systems joined in solving the puzzle. Today there are more than 30 types of cubes.

They come in intricate shapes and levels of complexity. The 3x3 Rubik's cube is considered a classic cube. With his help, a teacher at the Hungarian Academy applied arts and crafts, Erno Rubik hoped to clearly explain to students the mathematical theory of groups and the advantages of spatial thinking.

It is with this puzzle that beginners are recommended to begin their acquaintance with the Rubix family.

How the classic Rubik's cube works

The original toy with a 3x3 configuration consists of 26 cubes, which are divided into central and edge ones.In the very heart of the cube, in place of the “invisible” cube, there is a cylindrical fastening mechanism. It is connected to all external elements and is responsible for ensuring that they rotate freely relative to each other.

But there is one subtlety: the mechanism is connected directly only to the central parts. The side and corner cubes are held onto them (and each other) using special protrusions. The design of the model is designed so that only the edges can be moved. But there are no restrictions on the coordinate axes.

Rubik's Cube and God's Number

A colorful puzzle just seems like easy fun. It took the professor a month to develop an algorithm for assembling his own invention. According to combinatorics, there are 43,252,003,274,489,856,000 possible states for a Rubik's cube. Translated into human language, this figure sounds like 43 quintillion. Surprisingly, this is not the limit: the value will double if we take into account the difference in the location of the central elements.

It would take a professional speedcuber 4,200 trillion years to go through all the combinations. The unattainability of the goal does not prevent fans from looking for the easiest and quick way assemblies. A new world record was set last fall by 15-year-old Patrick Pons from the USA. The teenager solved the problem in 4.69 seconds and 17 rotations.

The minimum number of steps included in the algorithm for solving a classic cube from any position is 20. It is called the “number of God.” Not everyone can play by such strict rules. On average, an experienced speedcuber makes 40 to 50 moves.

Assembly formula for beginners

The 3x3 puzzle follows a general principle. Much depends on its condition at the time of assembly. To better understand the structure of the cube, you can disassemble it into parts and then reassemble it again. It is important to place the edges correctly.
The instructions for assembling the classic Rubik's cube consist of seven points:

Creating a cross on the top plane
Working with the corners next to it
Gathering the middle ribs
Creating a cross from below
Working with the lower ribs
Adjusting the bottom corners
Final spread

The algorithm is shown step by step in the pictures below: (pictures)

Hi all!

Today our article is dedicated to all puzzle lovers. Solving problems, crosswords, puzzles, riddles, etc. has always attracted people, young and old. And this is not only a fun pastime, but also good for the mind and the development of logical thinking.

Puzzles can be either drawn in some publication or made in the form of objects, often toys. One of these is the Rubik's Cube, famous in the 20th century.

There are probably still fans of this puzzle. Or maybe someone, after reading this article, will want to get acquainted with this almost ancient puzzle toy.

The Rubik's cube (sometimes erroneously called the Rubik's cube; originally known as the "magic cube", Hungarian bűvös kocka) is a mechanical puzzle invented in 1974 (and patented in 1975) by the Hungarian sculptor and architecture teacher Ernő Rubik. From Wikipedia.

In the mid-70s of the last century, the Hungarian teacher Erne Rubik, in order to somehow help his students learn some mathematical features and understand three-dimensional objects more clearly, made several wooden cubes and painted them in six colors.

Then it turned out that putting them together into a whole cube with sides of the same color was a rather difficult task. Erne Rubik struggled for a month until he achieved the result. And so, on January 30, 1975, he received a patent for his invention called the “Magic Cube.”

However, this name was preserved only in German, Portuguese, Chinese and, naturally, Hungarian. In all other countries, including ours, it is called the Rubik's Cube.

At one time this puzzle was a bestseller. It was sold all over the world in the 80-90s. only, more than 350 million pieces

What is a Rubik's Cube

What is this puzzle? Externally it is a plastic cube. Now it comes in various sizes, with 4x4x4 considered popular. Initially it was made in the 3x3x3 format. This cube (3x3x3) looks like 26 small cubes with 54 colored faces that make up one big cube.

The faces of the cube rotate around its three internal axes. By rotating the faces, the colored squares are reordered by a variety of very in various ways. The task is to collect the colors of all faces equally.

There are a lot of different combinations. For example, a 3x3x3 cube has the following number of combinations:

(8! × 38−1) × (12! × 212−1)/2 = 43,252,003,274,489,856,000.

As soon as this puzzle gained popularity, mathematicians all over the world, and not only, set the goal of finding the number of combinations that would be the smallest when assembling it.

In 2010, several mathematicians from different parts of the world proved that each configuration of this puzzle can be solved in no more than 20 moves. Any rotation of a face is considered a move.

Fans of the cube didn’t just solve it, but began to organize competitions in how quickly they could solve the puzzle. Such people began to be called speedcubers. The result is not calculated based on a single assembly, but as the average time of five attempts.

By the way, along with popularity, as it happens, opponents also appeared who proved (even with examples) that solving a cube, especially at speed, entails dislocations of the hands.

But, be that as it may, the cube not only did not turn away, but attracted more and more people. And competitions took place both in a separate city, and in the country, and internationally. For example, at the European Championships in 2012, a participant from Russia won. His average build time was 8.89 seconds.

The cube became so popular that other modifications of its shape began to appear. For example, a snake, a pyramid, various tetrahedrons, etc.

How to assemble a 3x3 cube, diagram with pictures for beginners

So. Let's start with a simple version of assembling a cube measuring 3x3x3. It consists of seven stages. But first, about some concepts and designations that appear in the diagrams.

F, T, P, L, V, N– designations of the sides of the cube: front, rear, right, left, top, bottom. In this case, which side is the front, rear, etc. depends on you and on the diagram on which these symbols are applied.

The designations F', T', P', L', B', H' indicate the rotation of the faces by 90° counterclockwise.

The designations F 2, P 2, etc. indicate a double rotation of the face: F 2 = FF, which means rotating the front face twice.

Designation C – rotation of the middle layer. In this case: S P - from the right side, S N - from the bottom side, S’L - from the left side, counterclockwise, etc.

For example, such a notation (Ф' П') Н 2 (ПФ) means that it is necessary to first rotate the façade edge counterclockwise by 90°, then the right edge as well. Next, rotate the bottom edge twice - this is 180°. Then rotate the right edge 90° clockwise, and also rotate the front edge 90° clockwise.

In the diagrams this is indicated as follows:

So, let's begin the assembly steps.

At the first stage it will be necessary to assemble the cross of the first layer.

We lower the desired cube down, turning the corresponding side face (P, T, L) and bring it to the front face by turning H, H’ or H 2. We finish everything by turning the same side face back

In the diagram it looks like this:

At the second stage, we arrange the corner cubes of the first layer

Here we need to find the required corner cube, which has the colors of the faces F, B, L. Using a method similar to the first stage, we bring it to the left corner of the selected front face.

The dots in the diagram show the place where you need to place the desired cube. For the remaining three corner cubes we repeat the same operation.

As a result, we get the following figure:

At the third stage we will assemble the second layer.

We find the required cube and initially bring it down to the front face. If it is located at the bottom, then we do this by rotating the bottom edge until it matches the color of the facade.

If it is located in the middle belt, then lower it down using formula a) or b). Next, match the color with the color of the front edge and do a) or b) again. As a result, we will already have two layers assembled.

Let's move on to the fourth stage. Here we will assemble the third layer and the cross.

What to do here. We move the side cubes of one face, which do not violate the already assembled order in the layers. Next, select another face and repeat the process.

This way we will put all four cubes in place. As a result, everything is in its place, but two, or even all four may be oriented incorrectly.

First of all, you need to see which cubes sitting in their places are oriented incorrectly. If there are none or one, then we rotate the top face so that the cubes on the adjacent faces fall into place.

Here we apply the following turns: fv+pv, pv+tv, tv+lv, lv+fv. Next, we orient the cube as in the figure and apply the formula written there.

Let's move on to the fifth stage. Here we unfold the side cubes of the third layer.

The cube that we will unfold should be located on the right side. It is marked with arrows in the figure. The dots there also mark all possible cases when the cubes may be oriented incorrectly (Figures a, b and c).

Figure a). Here you will need to rotate B' to bring the second cube to the right side. Next, finish with rotation B, which will return the top edge to its original position.

Figure b). Here we do the same as in case a), only we turn B 2 and finish in the same way at B 2

Figure c). We perform turn B three times after turning over each cube, after which we also finish with turn B.

We proceed to the sixth stage, placing the corner cubes of the third layer.

It should be simple here. We set the corners of the last face according to the following scheme:

First, a straight turn, with which we rearrange the three corner cubes clockwise. Then the reverse one, with which we rearrange the three cubes counterclockwise.

And finally, the last stage, during which we orient the corner cubes.

At this stage, the sequence of turns PF'P'F is repeated many times.

The figure below also shows four options when the cubes may be incorrectly oriented. They are marked with dots.

Figure a) we first make a turn B and end with a turn B’,

Figure b) here we start with B 2 and end with it.

Figure c) turn B must be performed after we have rotated each cube correctly, and then do turn B2,

Figure d) we first make a rotation B, which is also performed after we correctly orient each cube. We also end with a turn B.

As a result, everything is collected

Assembly diagram for children

This scheme is also divided into several stages.

Assembly begins with a cross on the top side. It is almost easy to assemble. Moreover, you can ignore the arrangement of colors on the other sides of the cube, but only for now.

It is usually advised to start assembling with yellow. But you can choose any one.

We continue to collect the cross. Here it is necessary to take into account that all the upper elements of the mating sides must have the same color as the central elements located on the same faces. If something doesn’t match somewhere, we try to follow this algorithm:

A. if two adjacent sides do not match in color: P, B, P’, B, P, B 2 , P’, B

B. if the opposite sides differ: Ф 2, З 2, Н 2, Ф 2, З 2

At this stage we place the corner cubes. This way we will assemble one side completely. Let's examine these corner cubes and see that the cubes of the color that we chose as the basis, in particular yellow, are in three options: on top, on the left or on the right. For each we use the appropriate combination:

For the one on top – P, B 2, P’, B’, P, B, P’

For the one on the left – Ф’, В’, Ф

For the one on the right – P, V, P’

As a result, we get one completely assembled side, and the top layers of adjacent sides and their centers have the same color.

Now we have to assemble the second layer. To do this, turn the assembled side up. Next, twist the bottom edge so that the color of the side element matches the color of the side, forming the letter “T”. In order to move a side cube from the bottom layer to the middle one and at the same time its two colors must match the colors of the adjacent sides, you must do the following:

A. Turn the cube to the left - N, L, N', L', N', F', N, F

B. Move the cube to the right - N', P', N, P, N, F, N', F'

Assembling the third layer. Let's start by turning the cube with the unassembled side up. If the chosen color was yellow, then now we must make white up. Now we collect white cubes using these formulas:

A. White cube in the center + two opposite sides - F, P, B, P', B', F',

B. White cube in the center + two adjacent sides – F, V, P, V’, P’, F

B. Only one white cube in the center - use any combination, either A or B

We collect the remaining layer completely. Below is an assembly diagram with two possible options. If you don't succeed in any of the above, use any of them.

A. The colors match when rearranged counterclockwise - P, B, P', B, P, B 2, P',

B. The colors match when rearranged clockwise - P, B 2, P', B', P, B', P',

At this stage we place the corner cubes. This will be a little more difficult to do. However, practice and everything will work out.

A. The side cube with the color of the top edge is on the front side -

P', F', L, F, P, F', L', F

B. The side cube with the color of the top face is on the side -

F', L, F, P', F', L', F, P

Last thing. Here you need to turn the corners correctly. We again need two options:

A. Clockwise – P 2, B 2’, P, F, P’, B 2’, P, F’, P

B. Counterclockwise - P', F, P', B 2 ', P, F', P', B 2 ', P 2

If you need to change the corner cubes crosswise or the corners that are opposite, you can use either of these two options.

As a result, the puzzle will be completed completely.

Video master class on cubes

And finally, a short video

The puzzle, invented as a visual aid to algebraic theory, unexpectedly captivated the whole world. For decades now, people who are far from higher mathematics have been passionately struggling with a complex and exciting problem. The Magic Cube is an excellent tool for developing logical thinking and memory. For those who first wondered how to solve a Rubik's cube, diagrams and comments will help maintain enthusiasm, and perhaps discover the world of speedcubing.

The six sides of the puzzle have specific colors and their order, patented by the inventor. Numerous fakes often give themselves away precisely because of their unusual colors or their position relative to each other. Educational diagrams and descriptions always use standard color schemes. It is quite easy for beginners to get confused in the explanations if they use a die with a different color scheme.

Colors opposite faces: white - yellow, green - blue, red - orange.

Each side consists of several square elements. Based on their number, the types of Rubik's cubes are distinguished: 3*3*3 (the first classic version), 4*4*4 (the so-called “Rubik's Revenge”), 5*5*5 and so on.

The first model assembled by Ernő Rubik consisted of 27 wooden cubes, identically painted in six colors and stacked on top of each other. The inventor spent a month trying to group them so that the faces of a large cube were made up of squares of the same color. It took even more time to develop the mechanism that held all the elements together.

A modern Rubik's cube of a classic design consists of the following elements:

Centers are parts that are motionless relative to each other, fixed on the axes of rotation of the cube. They face the user with only one colored side. Actually, the six centers form mirror pairs in the color scheme.
Ribs are moving elements. The user sees two colored sides of each edge. The color combinations here are also standard.
Corners are eight movable elements located at the vertices of the cube. Each of them has three colored sides.
The fastening mechanism is a cross of three rigidly fixed axes. There is an alternative mechanism that looks like a sphere. It is used in speed or multi-element cubes. The design of cubes with an even number of elements on the faces is especially complex - it is a system of interconnected click mechanisms, sometimes combined with a cross. There are magnetic mechanisms for professional speed cubes.

The game with a Rubik's cube is that, using a moving mechanism, the colored elements on the faces are rearranged and try to be assembled in the original order.

Puzzle fans compete to solve it against the clock. In addition to manual dexterity, this requires learning, remembering and bringing to automaticity hundreds of combinations of colored elements and actions with them. This unusual sport is called speedcubing.

Speedcuber tournaments are held regularly and records are updated. New horizons for achievements are constantly opening up. As part of the tournaments, competitions are held in assembling blindly, with one hand, with legs, and so on.

The newest hobby is playing solitaire games (patterns) on cubes.

In order to describe manipulations with a puzzle, record solution patterns, movements of elements relative to each other, and simply for ease of communication, a rotation language was created. It provides letter designations for each face and how it can be rotated.

The sides of the puzzle are indicated in capital letters.

In Russian-language manuals for solving a Rubik's cube, the initial letters of Russian names are used:

F – from “facade”;
T – from “rear”;
P – from “right”;
L – from “left”;
B – from “top”;
N – from “bottom”.

In the world community, the initial letters of the names of faces in English are used.

Designations accepted by the WCA (World Cube Association):

R – from right;
L – from left;
U – from up;
D – from down;
F – from front;
B – from back.

The central element is named the same as the face (R, D, F, and so on).

The edge is adjacent to two faces, its name consists of two letters (FR, UL, and so on).

The angle is accordingly described by three letters (for example, FRU).

The groups of elements that make up the middle layers between the faces also have their own names:

M (from middle) – between R and L.
S (from standing) – between F and B.
E (from equatorial) – between U and D.

The rotation of faces is described by the letters that name the faces and additional icons.

The apostrophe "'" indicates that the face or layer is rotated counterclockwise.
The number 2 indicates a repetition of the movement.

Possible actions with a face, for example, with the right one:

R – clockwise rotation;
R’ – counterclockwise rotation.
R2 – double rotation, no matter in which direction, since the edge has only four possible positions.

To determine which direction to turn the face, you need to imagine a watch dial on it and be guided by the movement of an imaginary hand.

Rotation of opposite faces “clockwise” is counter-rotating.

The movements of the middle layers are tied to the outer edges:

Layer M rotates in the same directions as L.
Layer S – like F.
Layer E - like D.

Another important designation of "w" is the simultaneous rotation of two adjacent layers. For example, Rw – simultaneous rotation of R and M.

Rotations of the entire cube are called interceptions. They are performed in three planes, that is, along three coordinate axes: X, Y, Z.

x and x’ are rotations along the X axis of the entire cube. The movements coincide with the rotations of the right side.
y and y’ – rotations of the cube along the Y axis. The movements coincide with the rotations of the top face.
z and z’ – rotation of the cube along the Z axis. The movement coincides with the rotation of the front face.
x2, y2, z2 – designations of double intercepts along the specified axis.

In addition to generally accepted designations, assembly manuals are full of slang, names of techniques, techniques, algorithms, patterns and figures on the cube, popular among speedcubers, and so on. No less in demand are schematic descriptions of algorithms that use only arrows. The more experience you gain in solving a puzzle, the easier it is to understand the descriptions and explanations; many things begin to be perceived intuitively.

The cap is colored elements collected on one side of the cube. Assembling a puzzle is the same as assembling all six hats.
Belt - colored elements adjacent to the hat. The hat can be assembled in such a way that the belt consists of scattered colored fragments, that is, the corner and rib elements are not in their places.
A cross is a figure on a hat made of five fragments of the same color. Assembly often begins with the construction of a cross. There are no clear guidelines here. This step allows the most flexibility and requires some thought. When the cross is ready, all that remains is to follow the memorized algorithms.
Flip - turning a corner or edge in one place relative to the center; this action requires the use of special algorithms.

Schemes for beginners will help you learn and save your nerves while solving a hopelessly confused cube, feel the logic of movements and work out the simplest algorithms.

Before performing any action, you need to inspect the cube. At competitions, 15 seconds are allotted for “pre-inspection”. During this time, you need to find elements of the same color that will be assembled into a “head” at the first stage. Traditionally, one starts with the white side, meaning most manuals assume that the U is white. “Multicolor” speedcubers can start the assembly from any side, mentally rebuilding all the ready-made algorithms.

Rubik's Cube 2x2

"Mini cube" consists of 8 corner elements. At the first stage, one layer of four corners is assembled. At the second stage, the remaining corners are placed in their places, but they can be turned upside down, that is, the colored elements will not be on their edges. All that remains is to turn them the right way.

The “bang-bang” algorithm allows you to move the corner element and orient it correctly. If you do this sequence of actions six times in a row, the cube will return to its original position. Thus, if a cube is mixed, you need to apply it 1 to 5 times to place the element correctly. Algorithm entry: RUR’U’.
When one layer is assembled, you need to turn the cube with the second layer up. Moving this layer in any direction, set one of the corners in its place. Next, an algorithm is applied that allows you to swap two adjacent elements - the right and left corners of the front face. The sequence of actions is as follows: URU’L’UR’U’LU.
When all the corners are in place, they are turned over (flip) using the “bang-bang” algorithm. At this stage it is important not to intercept the cube.

How to solve a 3x3 Rubik's cube

Construct a “white cross” by gathering 4 edges with white stickers around a white center.
Combine the colored centers of the sides R, L, U, D with the corresponding edges of the “white cross”.
Place the corners with white stickers in their places. Using the R'D'RD algorithm, repeated up to five times, the corners will be flipped into the correct position.
To place the edges of the middle layer in their places, you need to intercept the cube - y2. Select the rib without the yellow sticker. Align it with a center that matches the color of one of the sides. Using formulas, shift the edge to the middle layer: The edge is lowered with a shift to the left: U’L’ULUFU’F’. The edge descends with a shift to the right: URU’R’U’F’UF. If an element is in place but not rotated correctly, these algorithms are used again to move it to the third layer and reinstall it.
Without intercepting the cube, collect a yellow cross on the cap of the third layer, repeating the algorithm: FRUR’U’F’.
Align the edges of the last layer with the side centers correctly, as was done for the first cross. The two ribs will easily snap into place. The other two will have to be swapped. If they are opposite each other: RUR’URU2R’. If on adjacent sides: RUR’URU2R’U.
Place the corners of the last face in the correct positions. If none of them is in the correct place, apply the formula URU’L’UR’U’L. One of the elements will fit correctly. Grab the cube at this angle towards you; it will be the top right one on the front edge. Move the remaining corners counterclockwise URU'L'UR'U'L or, conversely, U'L'URU'LUR'. At this stage, all the collected areas will be rebuilt, it will seem that something has gone wrong. It is important to ensure that the cube does not turn over and the center of F does not move relative to the user. The combination of moves must be repeated up to 5 times.
Maybe, corner elements You will need to unfold it, aligning the colored fragments with the rest of the edges correctly. To unfold (flip) them, the first formula is used: R’D’RD. It is important not to intercept the cube so that F and U do not change.

Rubik's Cube 4x4

Puzzles with more than three elements on an edge offer a much larger number of combinations.

The “even” options are especially difficult, since they do not have a rigidly fixed center, which helps to navigate the classic puzzle.

For 4*4*4, about 7.4*1045 element positions are possible. That's why it was called "Rubik's revenge" or Master Cube.

Additional designations for internal layers:

f – internal frontal;
b – internal rear;
r – inner right;
l – inner left.

Assembly options: layer by layer, from corners or reduction to the form 3*3*3. The last method is the most popular. First, four central elements are assembled on each face. Then the rib pairs are adjusted and, finally, the angles are set.

When assembling central elements, you need to remember which colors are opposed in pairs. Algorithm to swap elements from the middle quad: (Rr) U (Rr)’ U (Rr) U2 (Rr)’ U2.
When assembling the ribs, only the outer edges rotate. Algorithms: (Ll)’ U’ R U (Ll); (Ll)’ U’ R2 U (Ll); (Ll)' U' R' U (Ll); (Rr) U L U’ (Rr)’; (Rr) U L2 U’ (Rr)’; (Rr) U L’ U’ (Rr)’. In most cases, the ribs can be assembled intuitively. When there are only two edge elements left: (Dd) R F’ U R’ F (Dd)’ – to install them side by side, U F’ L F’ L’ F U’ – to swap them.
Next, the 3*3*3 cube formulas are used to rearrange and rotate the corners.

Complex cases that require a special solution are parities. Their formulas do not solve the problem, but knock elements out of a dead-end situation, bringing the puzzle into a form that can be solved by standard algorithms.

Two adjacent edge elements in the wrong orientation: r2 B2 U2 l U2 r’ U2 r U2 F2 r F2 l’ B2 r2.
Opposing pairs of edge elements in the wrong orientation: r2 U2 r2 (Uu)2 r2 u2.
Pairs of rib elements, standing at an angle to each other, in the wrong orientation: F’ U’ F r2 U2 r2 (Uu)2 r2 u2 F’ U F.
The corners of the last layer are out of place: r2 U2 r2 (Uu)2 r2 u2.

Quick assembly of a 5x5 puzzle

Assembly consists of bringing it to a classic look. First, 9 central fragments on each cap and three rib elements are assembled. The last stage is the placement of corners.

Additional designations:

u – inner upper edge;
d – inner bottom edge;
e – inner edge between the top and bottom;
(two faces in brackets) – simultaneous rotation.

The assembly of the central elements is simpler than in the previous case, since there are rigidly fixed color pairs.

At the first stage, difficulties may arise if you need to swap elements on adjacent faces. If they are separated by one edge element: (Rr) U (Rr)’ U (Rr) U2 (Rr)’. If they are on the inner central layers: (Rr)’ F’ (Ll)’ (Rr) U (Rr) U’ (Ll) (Rr)’.
The combination of edge elements is intuitive, it does not affect the assembled centers: (Ll)’ U L’ U’ (Ll); (Ll)’ U L2 U’ (Ll); (Rr) U' R U (Rr)'; (Rr) U' R2 U (Rr)'. The only difficulty is assembling the last two ribs.

Formulas for parities:

swap elements in layers u and d on the edges of one face: (Dd) R F’ U R’ F (Dd)’;
swap the edge elements located in the middle layer on one face: (Uu)2 (Rr)2 F2 u2 F2 (Rr)2 (Uu)2;
unfold these elements in their places, that is, flip: e R F’ U R’ F e’;
unfold the rib element of the middle layer in place: (Rr)2 B2 U2 (Ll) U2 (Rr)’ U2 (Rr) U2 F2 (Rr) F2 (Ll)’ B2 (Rr)2;
swap elements in the side layer on one face: (Ll)’ U2 (Ll)’ U2 F2 (Ll)’ F2 (Rr) U2 (Rr)’ U2 (Ll)2;
flip three edge elements simultaneously into place: F’ L’ F U’ or U F’ L.

The last task is to arrange the corners according to the principle of a classic cube.

The fastest way. Jessica Friedrich Method

Those who have already learned how to solve a puzzle in 1 - 2 minutes, that is, can really quickly solve a Rubik's cube, are approaching a fundamentally new understanding of the problem. Mechanical acceleration becomes impossible at a certain stage. Special algorithms and techniques are needed to reduce the time required to find solutions.

Layer-by-layer assembly of the classic version to speed up the process comes down to four tasks:

initial cross on one hat;
simultaneous assembly of the first and second layers;
last hat;
third layer belt.

The difficulty is that you have to learn and keep in your head all the time 119 formulas compiled by the author of the method, Jessica Friedrich. Groups of algorithms F2L, OLL, PLL for each stage describe all possible combinations of element arrangement, rotations and permutations necessary for working with edge-angle pairs.

The method allows you to solve the puzzle in less than 20 seconds.

How to Solve a Rubik's Cube with Your Eyes Closed

Special techniques have been developed to facilitate this task. One of the popular methods among speedcubers is the old Pochmann method.

The assembly is not done layer by layer, but by groups of elements: first all the edges, then the corners.

Edge RU is a buffer edge. Using special algorithms, the cube occupying this position is moved to its place. The element that replaced it in the RU position is moved again, and so on, until all the edges are in their places. The same is done with the corners. The peculiarity of blind assembly algorithms is that they allow you to move an element without mixing the rest.

During the blind assembly process, the cube is not turned over to avoid confusion.

Before starting to assemble, the cube is “remembered”. A chain is mentally created along which the elements will move. Each sticker is assigned its own letter of the alphabet. Speedcuber makes separate alphabets for edges and corners. A jumbled Rubik's cube is remembered as a sequence of letters. The top sticker on the buffer cube is the first letter, the sticker that occupies its rightful place is the second, and so on. For simplicity, sequences of letters form words, and words form sentences.

Who holds the record for the fastest Rubik's Cube?

Australian Felix Zemdegs twice updated the world record for solving the classic Rubik's cube in 2018. At the beginning of the year, best time 4.6 seconds, in May the puzzle was solved in 4.22 seconds.

The 22-year-old athlete holds several other current records from 2015 to 2017:

4x4x4 – 19.36 seconds;
5x5x5 – 38.52 seconds;
6x6x6 – 1:20.03 minutes;
7x7x7 – 2:06.73 minutes;
Megaminx – 34.60 seconds;
one hand – 6.88 seconds.

The robot's record, recorded in the Guinness Book of Records, is 0.637 seconds. There is already a working model that can solve a cube in 0.38 seconds. Its developers are Americans Ben Katz and Jared Di Carlo.

Rubik's Cube- an interesting childhood puzzle. Although many adults are not averse to having fun with this curiosity. At first glance, you can tell that this is an ordinary cube with six sides of different colors. But this is only at first glance. The puzzle is quite complex and not every brave person can do it. Therefore, today we will try to explain in as much detail as possible how to assemble a toy from our childhood.

The main thing in the article

How to learn to solve a Rubik's cube?

The original idea for the magic cube was to teach students mathematical group theory. So in 1970s years, Hungarian architect Ernő Rubik created a mechanical tool that was a learning cube for understanding three-dimensional models and moving independent parts.
After a short time, great fame came to the magical patented cube. People of different professions and from different countries. So, in 1980s For years, the whole world knew about him, he won many competitions and was awarded all kinds of prizes.
The mechanism includes an internal and external part. The inner one is a figure consisting of three connected cylinders. External - edges attached to the internal mechanism, which in turn consist of squares.
By rotating the edges of the faces in different directions, you can solve a Rubik's cube. Over the years, many people worked on the magic cube, as a result of which many techniques were created. Now there are even some algorithms, using which you can quickly solve a cube.
The cube consists of three elements: centers - 4 , angles - 8 and ribs - 12 .

How to solve a Rubik's cube quickly and easily: the main rules

It is necessary to rotate not only the color sectors, but also the cube itself.
You need to focus on the central figures.
In the original version, yellow is always opposite white, orange is opposite red, and green is opposite blue.
It is necessary to move the middle and corner sectors, in accordance with the colors of the central figures.
Each new movement creates a new angle and center segment.
The centers do not change, no matter what confusing position you bring the cube into, there will always be white at the top, yellow at the bottom, green in front, blue in the back, red on the right, and orange on the left.
The edge elements have two stickers, and the corner elements have three.
Since the color fragments do not change their position, the cube will always be assembled in the same way.
There are ribs comfortable- looking left and right, and uncomfortable- located below or above. There are also ribs that stand still or under the cross.

How to solve one or two sides of a Rubik's cube?

In order to assemble one of the sides, you need to create a cross of one color on any of the faces. The starting point will be the central fragment of one of the flowers.
Having chosen the desired color located in the center, direct fragments of a similar color towards it, creating a cross.
Next, you need to assemble corners of similar colors. To do this, you need to move the found color to the edge of the side to be assembled.

The cross will be assembled correctly if the centers on the other faces match the edges in color.

Find the white center.
Then place comfortable ribs that face you.
Afterwards, tackle the inconvenient ones. Scroll the edge to the left or right and make it convenient for placing a cross.
Afterwards, scroll the top to make room for the rib.
Next, add the corners. They are either top or bottom. The top corners move initially.
Select a corner and bring it to the center of those colors whose color stickers are located along with the white corner.
Then twist the formula "bang Bang" until the corner is in place.

To ensure that all centers coincide with the ribs, always twist one clockwise motion and check.

When the moment comes that the centers and edges on two faces do not coincide, then you need to use the formula "bang Bang".

Formula "bang Bang"— algorithm of repeated movements. The white cross is facing up, clockwise move the right side one movement, then move the top clockwise. After, right side move counterclockwise, that is, return it back, and return the top back counterclockwise.

The second side is assembled in a similar way. To do this, you first need to assemble the correct cross, the first side and move the edges so that they coincide with the centers in color. Next, move the corners according to the formula.

How to solve a Rubik's cube completely?

In order to assemble the entire mechanism, you need to use the lesson on assembling one side. Afterwards the second and the remaining parties gather.

How to solve the corners of a Rubik's cube?

The corners of the cube are divided into upper and lower. The top ones move first, as they are the easiest to move.
The secret is that, having found the top corner, you need to move the white sticker so that the other corner stickers are located with their centers.
And then the angle moves according to the formula "bang Bang".

How to solve a Rubik's cube layer by layer?

Collect the correct white cross.
Create one white layer.
Find the ribs without the yellow stickers.
Remember the color of the edge and match it with the corresponding color.
Now do everything with your right hand.
Place the two centers in front of you at an angle 45°.
Hide the colored element in that direction so that it is not visible, twisting the edge in one motion.
Lift up the right corner.
Return the hidden rib.
And return the corner. You should get a pair of two colors.
Next, follow the same algorithm to move all the fragments into place.

How to solve a Rubik's cube with pictures for beginners: step-by-step instructions

How to solve a Rubik's cube: clear diagram and formulas

How to solve a 3x3, 5x5 Rubik's cube very quickly?

Cross— assembly of a cross, four rib cubes on the bottom edge;
1. In order to assemble the mechanism very quickly, you can use the method - CFOP which stands for:
2. F2L(First two layers) - assembly of two layers - bottom and middle;
3. OLL(Orient the last layer) - correct orientation of the cubes of the top layer;
4. PLL(Permute the last layer) - placement of the cubes of the top layer.
Also, during high-speed assembly, the mechanism itself is of no small importance, how well it is lubricated. After all, the speed of movement of the faces depends on this.
Another secret is to skillfully use both hands and all fingers, directing the edges in the desired direction.
There should be no pauses; when one move is completed, you must move on with lightning speed.
Having studied all the algorithms, you need to know in advance what your next step will be.
Practice, and only it helps in quickly collecting the magic cube.

How to solve a Rubik's cube in 20 moves?

God Number — 20 steps in which you can assemble the positions of the magic mechanism. Represents an algorithm of actions, the number of which is equal to 20 . The video below shows a slow circuit consisting of exactly 20 steps.

This video shows a diagram of 18 steps for advanced speedcubers.

How to solve a Rubik's cube: the easiest way

To make it more clear, watch the video, which clearly and clearly explains the easiest method of collecting a magic cube.

How to solve a Rubik's cube in a minute?

Ability to assemble a mechanism 1 minute is that you know all the simple algorithms. With the help of them and the speed of your fingers, you can easily solve the intricate Rubik's mechanism.

How to solve a Rubik's cube with your eyes closed?

To be able to fold a cube with eyes closed, you need to know by heart all the algorithms and the location of all the colors on the cube. And this requires practice.

How to solve a Rubik's cube easily for kids?

Before teaching children the mechanism of the Rubik's cube, you need to familiarize them with terminology that is understandable to the child.
Afterwards, you need to turn on your imagination and ask questions that will help the child understand how to move the figure.
Maxim Chechnev's technique helps children of different ages master a quick collection scheme.

How to solve a Rubik's cube: Maxim Chechnev

Methodology Maxim Chechneva helps even children assemble the magic mechanism. In his training, he explains in detail how to correctly and quickly learn the basics of mastery. His video lessons are aimed at understanding the mechanism of the cube itself. It interests children with leading questions and helps them master the correct technique in a fairly quick time.

How to Solve a Rubik's Cube: Tips from Jessica Friedrich

Jessica Friedrich- speedcuber, who 1980s years, she took first place in a mechanism assembly competition. In addition, she created her own collection method - CFOP, it is divided into 4 stages:

Tips from Jessica:

High quality mechanism;
Silicone Grease;
Patience, endurance and practice.

How to solve a disassembled, broken Rubik's cube?

If your cube broke or you wanted to look at the mechanism from the inside, then we suggest you watch the video, which describes in detail how to assemble the magic cube.

How to solve a Rubik's cube: video slowly

Assembling a magical mechanism allows you to develop not only memory, but also logical thinking, fine motor skills, diction and the ability to make quick and correct decisions. With the help of a magic toy you can develop intelligence, introduce children to not a boring game and don't waste your time.

- that's half the battle. Now it needs to be assembled. And here this most detailed video instruction will help you.

ANOTHER INSTRUCTION FOR ASSEMBLY A RUBIK'S CUBE FOR BEGINNERS?

The internet is full right now a huge amount instructions on the topic "how to solve a 3x3 Rubik's cube". The methods for solving a Rubik's cube for beginners, taught by numerous instructors, are practically no different.
Except for one thing, the most important thing - simplicity and accessibility of explanation. This is what determines how quickly you or your child will solve your first Rubik's cube.

EVEN A FIRST GRADER WILL COLLECT. THE BEST INSTRUCTION FOR TEACHING CHILDREN.

Simplest method of teaching how to solve a 3x3 Rubik's cube developed by the hero of the show “Ukraine’s Got Talent” Maxim Chechnev. Maxim, while working in children's camps, taught many children how to solve a 3x3 cube. And based on his experience, he developed the simplest teaching method, understandable and accessible to children even of primary school age.

The learning process is divided into 9 lessons with tasks. Don't be intimidated by the number of lessons - all of them can be completed within a few hours. But in the end, you will not only solve your first Rubik's cube, but you are also guaranteed to remember the assembly steps and will definitely solve the Rubik's cube the second time without any hints, on your own.

How to solve a Rubik's cube video from Maxim Chechnev.

Stage 1. Basics of the structure of the cube.

Stage 2. Putting a cross on one of the sides + theory about the elements of a 3x3 Rubik's cube.

After you have assembled the cross, before watching video 3, you MUST disassemble and reassemble it several times. Reinforce the steps and Rubik's cube formulas immediately, so as not to forget in an hour!

Stage 3. Put the elements of the cross in place.

Stage 4. Assemble one side completely.

Stage 5A. We assemble the second layer (second floor) of the Rubik's cube + securing the material.

IMPORTANT! After completing step 5A, disassemble your cube - and be sure to secure the previous 4 steps of solving the Rubik's Cube on the orange side (solve the cross and then the entire orange side).