Layer-by-Layer (LBL) Beginner Method - How to Solve a Rubik's Cube
The **Layer-by-Layer (LBL)** method, commonly referred to as the **Beginner's Cross Method**, is the most intuitive and widely taught system for solving a 3x3x3 Rubik's Cube. Historically, the Rubik's Cube was invented by Erno Rubik in 1974, and since then, mathematicians and cubers have researched numerous ways to solve it. LBL is designed to minimize memorization, allowing novices to complete the cube by understanding basic geometric relationships and learning only a handful of key movements (called algorithms).
Unlike advanced methods like CFOP or Roux that require speed and simultaneous lookup, LBL breaks the process down into discrete, independent layers. You will solve the cube from the bottom up: starting with a white cross, placing the first-layer corner pieces, inserting the middle-layer edges, and finishing with algorithms that orient and permute the final yellow layer.
Step-by-Step LBL Instructions
1 The White Cross (Daisy Method)
First, place the 4 white edge pieces around the yellow center. This creates a "daisy" pattern. Once done, look at the outer color of each white edge (e.g., Red or Green). Rotate the upper face until this color aligns with its corresponding colored center piece. Then, perform a 180-degree turn (F2) to move that white edge to the bottom white face. Repeat for all 4 edge pieces to form the **White Cross** with matched center lines.
2 First Layer Corners
Locate corner pieces with white stickers on the top layer. Identify the other two colors of the corner (e.g., Blue and Red). Position this corner directly above the slot where it belongs (between the Blue and Red center pieces). Repeat the **Right-Hand Trigger Algorithm** until the white corner is inserted correctly facing down:
R U R' U'
3 Second Layer (Middle Edges)
Turn the cube so the white face is at the bottom. Find an edge piece in the top layer that does not have yellow on it. Align the front sticker color of that edge with its center piece to form a vertical line. If the edge needs to go to the right, perform the following sequence:
U R U' R' U' F' U F
4 The Yellow Cross
With the white face at the bottom, examine the yellow stickers on the top face. You will see a Dot, an L-shape, a Horizontal Line, or a Cross. To move through these stages to form the **Yellow Cross**, execute the following sequence:
F R U R' U' F'