How to Solve a 3x3 Rubik's Cube

The definitive beginner's guide to solving the Rubik's Cube layer by layer. Easy to follow instructions with 3D diagrams.

Before you start

Step 1: The White Cross

The goal is to form a white cross on the top face, ensuring the edge colors match the center pieces of the side faces.

Find a white edge piece and move it to the top layer. Match it with its center color.

There is no single algorithm for this step; it requires a bit of intuition.

Step 2: The White Corners

Now we will solve the four white corners to complete the first layer.

Position a white corner under where it needs to go. Hold the cube so the target corner is on the front-right-bottom. Repeat this algorithm until the corner is solved:

R' D' R D

Step 3: The Middle Layer

Find an edge piece in the top layer that does not have yellow. Match it to the center color facing you.

Case 1: Move to the Right

U R U' R' U' F' U F

Case 2: Move to the Left

U' L' U L U F U' F'

Step 4: The Yellow Cross

Now look at the top (yellow) face. You might see a dot, an 'L' shape, or a line.

Use this algorithm to progress from a Dot -> L-Shape -> Line -> Cross.

F R U R' U' F'

Step 5: Align Yellow Cross

Rotate the top layer until two edge pieces match the side colors. Hold the cube so one matching edge is at the back and one is on the right (or opposite each other).

R U R' U R U2 R'

Step 6: Position Yellow Corners

Find a corner that is in the correct position (even if twisted wrong). Hold it at the front-right-top. If none are correct, do the algorithm once to make one correct.

U R U' L' U R' U' L

Step 7: Orient Yellow Corners

Hold the cube with an unsolved corner at the front-right-top. Repeat the Step 2 algorithm until it is solved:

R' D' R D

Important: Once the corner is solved, turn ONLY the top layer (U) to bring the next unsolved corner to the front-right position. Do NOT rotate the whole cube.

Congratulations!

You have solved the Rubik's Cube!

Start Timing Your Solves