The Rubik’s Cube is a fascinating puzzle that challenges problem-solving skills and patience. However, many cubers—both beginners and experienced—make common mistakes that slow down their solving time. Learning the right Rubik’s Cube tricks can help you avoid these mistakes, solve the cube efficiently, and improve your speed.
In this guide, we’ll cover the most common cube-solving mistakes and how to fix them using smart techniques, algorithms, and efficient movements.
1. Not Learning the Basic Rubik’s Cube Tricks
One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is trying to solve the cube without understanding basic solving tricks.
How to Fix It:
✔ Learn the Layer-by-Layer (LBL) method for an easy start.
✔ Master essential algorithms like R U R’ U’ for moving corners.
✔ Watch tutorial videos and practice common Rubik’s Cube tricks.
👉 Pro Tip: Start with a step-by-step method before jumping into advanced solving techniques.
2. Inefficient Cross Solving
The white cross is the foundation of a fast solve, but many beginners waste too many moves solving it.
How to Fix It:
✔ Plan your moves before making the first turn.
✔ Solve the cross in under 8 moves for maximum efficiency.
✔ Watch speedcubers and study their cross-solving techniques.
👉 Pro Tip: Use a cube timer to track how long you take to solve the cross.
3. Not Looking Ahead While Solving
Many cubers focus only on one step at a time, leading to unnecessary pauses.
How to Fix It:
✔ Always track the next move while executing the current one.
✔ Train your eyes to identify piece positions before making a move.
✔ Solve the cube in one fluid motion without stopping.
👉 Pro Tip: Try slow solving first and gradually increase your speed.
4. Poor Finger Tricks & Slow Hand Movements
Speedcubing requires efficient finger tricks to execute algorithms quickly. Using full-hand movements slows you down.
How to Fix It:
✔ Master double flicks, push moves, and quick rotations.
✔ Keep your fingers relaxed to reduce unnecessary strain.
✔ Hold the cube lightly and reduce wrist movements.
👉 Pro Tip: Watch slow-motion videos of professional cubers to improve finger tricks.
5. Incorrect F2L Execution (First Two Layers)
Many cubers solve the F2L (First Two Layers) inefficiently by solving edges and corners separately.
How to Fix It:
✔ Learn intuitive F2L, which pairs edges and corners together.
✔ Minimize cube rotations to maintain a steady flow.
✔ Use F2L algorithms to solve pieces faster.
👉 Pro Tip: Aim to complete F2L in under 10 seconds for an efficient solve.
6. Forgetting OLL & PLL Algorithms
If you struggle with the last layer, it’s likely because you haven’t learned the correct OLL (Orientation of Last Layer) and PLL (Permutation of Last Layer) algorithms.
How to Fix It:
✔ Start with 2-look OLL and 2-look PLL, which require fewer algorithms.
✔ Memorize the most common OLL and PLL cases first.
✔ Practice solving the last layer without stopping.
👉 Pro Tip: Use algorithm flashcards to memorize OLL and PLL faster.
7. Over-Rotating the Cube
Many beginners rotate the cube too much between moves, wasting valuable time.
How to Fix It:
✔ Learn to solve without unnecessary cube rotations.
✔ Keep the cube steady while executing algorithms.
✔ Minimize rotations using advanced look-ahead techniques.
👉 Pro Tip: Try solving a cube one-handed to improve efficiency.
8. Using a Low-Quality Cube
A stiff or cheap cube can make solving frustrating and slow.
How to Fix It:
✔ Use a magnetic speed cube for smoother movement.
✔ Apply cube lubrication to reduce friction.
✔ Adjust the tension settings for a better turning experience.
👉 Pro Tip: A high-quality cube can reduce solve time by 2-5 seconds instantly!
9. Relying Too Much on Memorized Algorithms
Memorizing algorithms is great, but relying only on them without understanding the mechanics can slow progress.
How to Fix It:
✔ Focus on intuitive solving rather than just memorizing moves.
✔ Experiment with different solving patterns to understand piece movement.
✔ Use a Rubik’s Cube simulator to analyze and practice moves.
👉 Pro Tip: The best cubers use a balance of memorization and intuition for solving.
10. Not Practicing Regularly
Many cubers stop improving because they don’t practice consistently.
How to Fix It:
✔ Set a daily practice routine (even 10-15 minutes a day helps).
✔ Use a cube timer to track progress and identify weak areas.
✔ Challenge yourself with different cubing exercises and competitions.
👉 Pro Tip: Try solving blindfolded or with one hand to improve muscle memory.
Final Thoughts
Mastering the Rubik’s Cube tricks and avoiding these common mistakes can significantly improve your solving time. With consistent practice, proper algorithms, and efficient movements, you can become a faster and more skilled cuber!
Key Takeaways:
✔ Plan ahead and minimize unnecessary cube rotations.
✔ Use finger tricks for faster, smoother moves.
✔ Master F2L, OLL, and PLL for last-layer efficiency.
✔ Invest in a high-quality speed cube.
✔ Practice daily with a cube timer to track improvements.
By correcting these mistakes, you’ll be solving a Rubik’s Cube in record time!
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