CFOP Method (Advanced 3x3)
The Speedsolving Standard
Advanced📝 Prerequisites: Can solve 3x3 with beginner method
🎯 Goal: Achieve sub-20 second solves
What is CFOP?
CFOP stands for Cross, F2L, OLL, PLL - the four stages of this advanced solving method. It's the most popular speedsolving method used by world champions and can achieve solves under 10 seconds with practice.
Cross
1-2 seconds
F2L
6-8 seconds
OLL
1-2 seconds
PLL
1-2 seconds
Stage 1: Cross
FoundationSolve the cross on the bottom (usually white) in under 2 seconds. This is the foundation of your entire solve.
Goals:
- Plan cross during 15-second inspection
- Solve cross without looking (color neutrality)
- Use 6-8 moves maximum
- Practice cross-only scrambles
Tips:
- Start with cross on bottom (D face)
- Look ahead to F2L pairs during cross
- Learn to solve cross with any color
- Practice finger tricks for D moves
Stage 2: F2L (First 2 Layers)
41 CasesSolve the first two layers simultaneously by pairing corner and edge pieces. This is where most time is spent in CFOP.
Learning Path:
- Intuitive F2L: Learn to solve pairs without algorithms (recommended first)
- Advanced Cases: Learn specific algorithms for difficult cases
- Look Ahead: Practice seeing next pair while solving current one
Key Concepts:
- Pair corner with edge before inserting
- Use R U R' and similar triggers
- Minimize cube rotations
- Practice slow, smooth solves first
Stage 3: OLL (Orient Last Layer)
57 CasesOrient all pieces on the last layer so the top face is one solid color. This requires learning 57 algorithms.
Learning Strategy:
- 2-Look OLL: Start with just 10 algorithms (good for sub-30)
- Full OLL: Gradually learn all 57 cases (needed for sub-15)
- Pattern Groups: Learn by shape (dot, line, L, T, etc.)
OLL Subsets:
Easiest to learn first
Very common patterns
Easy recognition
Common cases
Stage 4: PLL (Permute Last Layer)
21 CasesPermute the last layer pieces to solve the cube. Only 21 algorithms to learn!
Learning Order (Recommended):
- 2-Look PLL: Just 6 algorithms (Aa, Ab, Ua, Ub, H, Z)
- Common PLLs: T, J, F, R (most frequent cases)
- Remaining PLLs: Learn remaining 11 cases
PLL Categories:
Ua, Ub, H, Z
Aa, Ab, E
14 cases
Learning Roadmap
🎯 Phase 1: Sub-60 to Sub-30 (1-2 months)
- Master efficient cross (under 3 seconds)
- Learn intuitive F2L basics
- Learn 2-Look OLL (10 algorithms)
- Learn 2-Look PLL (6 algorithms)
🎯 Phase 2: Sub-30 to Sub-20 (2-4 months)
- Master cross in under 2 seconds
- Learn all 41 F2L cases
- Practice F2L look ahead
- Learn full PLL (21 algorithms)
- Start learning full OLL
🎯 Phase 3: Sub-20 to Sub-15 (3-6 months)
- Color neutral cross
- Advanced F2L techniques
- Complete full OLL (57 algorithms)
- Master finger tricks
- Practice turning speed
Practice Tips
- Slow Solves: Do slow, deliberate solves focusing on efficiency
- Algorithm Drills: Practice each algorithm 50+ times
- Timed Sessions: Use our timer to track progress
- Cross+1: Plan cross and first F2L pair in inspection
- Review Videos: Watch world-class solvers on YouTube
- Join Community: Connect with other cubers online
Essential Resources
Ready to Start Your CFOP Journey?
Remember: Everyone learns at their own pace. Stay consistent, practice daily, and you'll see steady improvement!
Start Practicing