Here’s the standard beginner way to solve a 3x3 Rubik’s Cube, step by step. The usual method is layer-by-layer: make the white cross, finish the white corners, solve the middle layer, then complete the yellow side.

Basic notation

  • R = right face clockwise.
  • R' = right face counterclockwise.
  • L, U, D, F, B mean left, up, down, front, back.
  • A 2 means turn that face twice, like U2.

Step 1: White cross

Build a white cross on one face, and make sure each edge matches the center color on the side it touches. This is the foundation for the rest of the cube.

Step 2: White corners

Put the four white corner pieces in place to finish the first layer. Common beginner moves here include:

  • R U R' U'
  • L' U' L U
    These help insert corners into the top or bottom layer depending on their position.

Step 3: Middle layer

Insert the four edge pieces into the middle layer without disturbing the first layer. Common algorithms are:

  • To the right: U R U' R' U' F' U F
  • To the left: U' L' U L U F U' F'

Step 4: Yellow cross

Now solve the yellow edge pieces on top. If you see a dot, an L shape, or a line, use:

  • F R U R' U' F'

Step 5: Match yellow edges

Rotate the top layer so the yellow edge colors line up with the center colors on the sides. One common algorithm is:

  • R U R' U R U2 R'

Step 6: Place yellow corners

Move the yellow corners into the correct spots, even if they are not oriented correctly yet. A common algorithm is:

  • U R U' L' U R' U' L

Step 7: Orient yellow corners

Finish by turning the yellow corners so yellow faces up. A common beginner corner-flip sequence is:

  • R' D' R D

Quick practice tip

Start slowly and always check piece colors, not just whether a piece is white or yellow. Many beginner mistakes happen when the cross or corners are placed without matching the side colors correctly.

Why this works

This method is popular because it breaks the cube into small, repeatable goals instead of trying to solve it all at once. Once you memorize the few algorithms above, you can solve most scrambled 3x3 cubes consistently.

TL;DR: solve white cross, white corners, middle layer, yellow cross, yellow edge alignment, yellow corner placement, then yellow corner orientation.