How to Solve a Rubik's Cube: The Layer Method

The layer-by-layer method is how almost every solver starts. It needs about seven short algorithms — here is the map.

Notation first

Each letter is a quarter turn of a face: R right, L left, U up, D down, F front, B back. A prime mark (R') means turn it the other way. A 2 (R2) means a half turn.

The seven stages

1. White cross – intuitive, no algorithm needed.
2. White corners – repeat R' D' R D until the corner drops in.
3. Middle layer edges – U R U' R' U' F' U F.
4. Yellow cross – F R U R' U' F'.
5. Yellow edges – R U R' U R U2 R' U.
6. Corner positions – U R U' L' U R' U' L.
7. Corner orientation – R' D' R D repeated per corner.

Our 3D Cube Solver has an auto-solve replay so you can watch each stage happen slowly and copy it.