How to solve the Rubik's Cube - Fridrich Method (CFOP) Stage 1

If you have already read our beginner’s solution guide, you will already know how to do this step. But here are a few tips on how to get faster at the cross.

Tips

• Try solving the cross on the bottom instead of the top. This means you can look ahead to the next step. You could even do it on the left if you like; some people do this and there is no disadvantage to it. A general hint is to never waste moves - know why you’re making moves when you do them. It may help if you turn a bit slower- this means, in the long run, you’ll use fewer moves and be faster.
• Try planning the cross in inspection time. Yes, in official competitions you get 15 seconds to inspect the cube. Try to imagine the moves you’re making and track where the cross pieces are going in your head.
• Instead of solving each edge one by one, see if you can solve two in one go. You may find this easier if, before you start, you already find where each of the white cross edges are on the cube.