How to Solve a Rubik's Cube | WIRED

Summary

This instructional video provides a step-by-step guide to solving a Rubik's Cube, breaking down the process into eight manageable steps. It begins with the basics of forming a cross on the top face, progresses through the layering of edges and corners, and culminates in positioning the final pieces. Key algorithms are introduced for each step, emphasizing the importance of practice to improve speed and efficiency. The video encourages viewers to repeat the process and memorize the algorithms, making solving the cube more intuitive over time.

Takeaways

• 😀 Speed cubing is a competitive event where participants solve a Rubik's Cube as quickly as possible.
• 🧩 The method learned from Tyson Mao helped the speaker go from unable to solve a cube to consistently solving it in under a minute in just two weeks.
• 📚 The process of teaching others is an effective way to master a subject.
• 🔍 When solving the cube, focus on pieces, not stickers; pieces have multiple stickers and must match accordingly.
• 🌈 There are three types of pieces in a Rubik's Cube: edge pieces (2 stickers), corner pieces (3 stickers), and center pieces (1 sticker).
• 🔄 Center pieces dictate the positions of other pieces since they are fixed and never move.
• 🌟 The first step is to create a 'daisy' by surrounding the yellow center with four white edge pieces.
• ➕ The second step involves forming a white cross on the bottom layer of the cube.
• ⚙️ Understanding how to hold and manipulate the cube is crucial for effective solving, using thumb and finger placements.
• 🔠 Cube notation (F, B, L, R, D, U) describes specific movements and is essential for following algorithms to solve the cube.

Q & A

What is the primary goal of the tutorial?

The primary goal of the tutorial is to teach viewers how to solve a Rubik's Cube step by step.

What are the first steps in solving the cube?

The first steps involve forming a white cross on the top face of the cube and ensuring that the edge pieces match the center pieces.

How can you ensure the edge pieces are positioned correctly?

Edge pieces should be positioned so that the colors match the center pieces of the adjacent sides.

What algorithm is introduced for positioning the corners?

The algorithm introduced for positioning the corners is: L' U R U' L U R' R U R' U R U2 R'.

What should you do if none of the corners are matching?

If none of the corners are matching, you should perform the corner positioning algorithm once to start the alignment.

How do you handle the situation when only one side is solved?

If only one side is solved, you should face that side away from you and inspect the edge pieces on the remaining sides.

What algorithms are used to swap edge pieces?

To swap edge pieces clockwise, use the algorithm F2 U R' L F2 L' R U F2, and for counterclockwise, use F2 U' R' L F2 L' R U' F2.

How can a beginner improve their speed in solving the cube?

Beginners can improve their speed by practicing the algorithms consistently and memorizing them for quicker execution.

What is the significance of the last step in the tutorial?

The last step is significant because it ensures that all edge pieces are correctly positioned, leading to a fully solved cube.

Why is it recommended to watch the tutorial multiple times?

Watching the tutorial multiple times is recommended to fully grasp the techniques and algorithms needed for solving the cube effectively.