Introduction
If you're serious about solving the Rubik’s Cube fast, you’ve probably heard of the CFOP method. It’s the go-to method for speedcubers worldwide, used by world record holders and casual speedcubers as well. But what exactly is CFOP, and how do you go from a beginner to an advanced solver cutting off every possible second? Let’s break it down.
What is CFOP?
CFOP stands for Cross, F2L (First Two Layers), OLL (Orientation of the Last Layer), and PLL (Permutation of the Last Layer).
CFOP is widely considered the fastest and most optimized solving method, and while it may seem scary at first, breaking it down step by step makes it manageable, even for beginners.
Step 1: The Cross
This is where it all begins. You solve a cross on one face of the cube, usually white, by aligning the edge pieces with the correct center pieces.
Tips for improving:
- Try solving the cross in 8 moves or fewer.
- Look ahead: don’t just solve one piece at a time.
- Learn to solve the cross without rotating the cube too much. At first, this step may take a few seconds, but with practice, it can be done in under 2 seconds!
Step 2: F2L (First Two Layers)
Instead of solving the corners and edges separately like in the beginner’s method, F2L pairs them up and inserts them at the same time. This is where CFOP really starts to speed up compared to layer-by-layer methods.
How to get better:
- Start with intuitive F2L: figure out how to move pairs without memorizing algorithms.
- Once comfortable, learn algorithmic F2L for tricky cases.
- Reduce cube rotations: your goal is to minimize unnecessary movements.
Mastering F2L is a game changer and will significantly improve your solve times.
Step 3: OLL (Orientation of the Last Layer)
Now that the first two layers are done, it’s time to orient the last layer so that all the top stickers are the same color.
Two approaches:
- 2-Look OLL: Learn just 3-4 algorithms to make a cross, then another set of 7 to finish orienting the last layer.
- Full OLL: 57 algorithms that solve OLL in one step. It takes time to learn, but it’s much faster in the long run.
Most cubers start with 2-Look OLL and gradually learn full OLL as they get faster.
Step 4: PLL (Permutation of the Last Layer)
OLL got all the last-layer pieces facing the right way, but they’re still scrambled. PLL solves the entire cube by permuting these pieces into their correct spots.
Learning PLL efficiently:
- 2-Look PLL: Learn 2 algorithms for corner permutation and 4 for edge permutation. This is a good stepping stone.
- Full PLL: 21 algorithms that solve the last layer in one step. A must for serious speedcubers.
Full PLL combined with full OLL lets you finish the last layer in just two algorithms, cutting down your solve time drastically.
Taking CFOP to the Next Level
Once you’ve got CFOP down, here’s how to make it even faster:
1. Lookahead
Speedcubing isn’t just about turning fast; it’s about planning ahead. Train yourself to spot F2L pairs while finishing the cross, and recognize OLL and PLL patterns before finishing F2L.
2. Finger Tricks
Efficient turning is key. Learn how to execute algorithms quickly by trying out multiple different algorithms for a certain case and choosing one that fits your turning style.
Is CFOP Right for You?
CFOP is the dominant method in speedcubing, but it’s not the only one. Some cubers prefer Roux or ZZ for their unique solving styles. However, if you’re looking for the method with the most resources, tutorials, and world records behind it, CFOP is the way to go.
Now go grab your cube and start practicing!
Happy cubing!
