How to solve a 3x3

To solve a 3x3, you need to understand move notation. Once you have learnt, it's time for step 1!

Step 1

The goal of the first step is to make a white plus.
(If you hear about a 'white cross' they are the same thing.)

white cross example

This step is mostly intuitive and it shouldn't take long for you to work out the tricks ;)

Step 2

The second step is to solve the first 2 layers, frequently called "f2l".
Follow the flow chart and pick the right tutorial.

f2l example f2l flow chart

Tutorial 1

1. Bring the corner and edge to the top layer.
2. Put the corner over its corresponding slot.
3. Do a U move.
4. Are the top colours matching?
Yes - Do an F' and then move the edge behind where the corner was, then do the alg: F U2 F' U F.
No - Do the 'yes' option, then do the alg: R U R' U2 R U2 R' U F' U' F.

Tutorial 2

1. Bring the corner and edge to the top layer.
2. Put the corner over its corresponding slot.
3. Do a U move.
4. Are the top colours matching?
Yes -

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