Introduction
The Rubik’s Cube is one of the world’s most iconic puzzles, and believe it or not, the world record for solving a standard 3x3 Rubik’s Cube stands at a mind-blowing 3.13 seconds (as of 2024). While you may not be aiming to break world records, improving your speed requires strategy and practice. Whether you're a beginner or an intermediate cuber, this guide will provide tips to help you solve the cube faster.
1. Improve Fingertricks
Fingertricks are essential for speedcubing. Instead of rotating the whole cube using your wrists or hands, fingertricks allow you to manipulate the cube quickly by using individual fingers. For example, using your index finger to push a face instead of your whole hand can save crucial seconds.
If you’re an intermediate solver solving the cube in less than 30 seconds, chances are, you know about fingertricks and actively use them during solves. However, you need to master fingertricks to get even better solve times, and this just comes by practice and understanding of your cube and how it turns.
2. Look-Ahead
In speedcubing, efficiency is just as important as raw speed. This is where the concept of "look-ahead" comes in. Instead of just focusing on the moves you're currently executing, look ahead to see what pieces you'll need to solve next. This reduces hesitation between steps and helps you plan your moves in advance.
So, instead of executing a case of any part of the solve extremely fast and then taking a pause in between to figure out the next thing to do, it’s always more efficient to maybe go a bit slower so it’s easier to see the pieces moving, and avoid that huge pause.
When solving the F2L, for instance, you should be aware of where the corner and edge pieces for the next pair are located before finishing the current pair. As you practice, you'll develop the ability to solve one step while mentally preparing for the next, which is crucial for lowering your time.
3. Focus on Efficient Algorithms
CFOP has multiple algorithms for OLL and PLL. While learning these algorithms is essential, focusing on efficiency can make a big difference.
For example:
OLL has 57 algorithms.
PLL has 21 algorithms.
That might seem overwhelming, but you don’t need to memorize all of them right away. Start with the most basic algorithms, then gradually learn more advanced ones. Also, a lot of OLL and PLL cases have multiple algorithms that can all be used to solve that very case. You need to pick out the algorithm that works best for you and practice that algorithm till it becomes second nature.
Using online resources like speedcubing algorithm databases or apps can help you optimize your algorithm learning.
4. Develop Muscle Memory
Speedcubing is as much about muscle memory as it is about intellectual strategy. Repetition is key to improving your speed. As you repeat algorithms, your turns will become smoother and execution time for algorithms will decrease. Eventually, you’ll be able to execute complex algorithms without consciously thinking about each move.
Set aside time each day to practice algorithms in small chunks. Focusing on one algorithm at a time allows your muscles to follow the patterns. Soon enough, these sequences will become second nature, allowing you to execute them effortlessly during solves.
5. Invest in a Good Speed Cube
A high-quality speed cube can significantly improve your solving experience. Look for cubes with high customizability, so that you can customize the cube according to your turning style, and good corner-cutting ability.
Popular brands like GAN, Drift, MoYu, and Qiyi produce some of the best speed cubes on the market. If you’re serious about speedcubing, investing in a professional speedcube can shave valuable seconds off your time.
6. Practice Untimed Solves
Practicing untimed solves is the best way to find out new tricks, and new ways to solve cases. Playing around with the cube can remove the pressure of the timer and help you figure out how algorithms work, and you can maybe make your own algorithms as well!
Conclusion
Remember, it’s all about persistence and patience—keep practicing, and faster times will be well within your reach!
Happy cubing!
