What is the CFOP method?

CFOP is a speedcubing method that stands for Cross, F2L (First Two Layers), OLL (Orient Last Layer), and PLL (Permute Last Layer). It is the most popular method used by world-class speedcubers and consists of 4 main steps to solve a 3x3x3 Rubik's Cube efficiently.

How long does it take to learn CFOP?

The CFOP method can be understood in about 15 minutes of reading. However, mastering it takes weeks to months of practice. Beginners can start with 2-look OLL and PLL (about 16 algorithms total) before progressing to full CFOP with all 78 algorithms.

What is F2L and how many cases are there?

F2L stands for First Two Layers, where you pair and insert corner-edge pairs. There are 41 possible F2L cases when using full algorithms, but many speedcubers start with an intuitive approach before memorizing all cases.

Should I learn full OLL and PLL or stick to two-look first?

Two-look OLL and PLL uses fewer algorithms (about 16 total) and is quicker to master for beginners. Learning full OLL (57 cases) and full PLL (21 cases) reduces move count and can significantly speed up your solves once you've memorized the cases. Start with 2-look and progress to full CFOP gradually.

What is the difference between CFOP and the beginner method?

The beginner method solves the cube layer by layer using about 7 algorithms and is easier to learn. CFOP is more advanced, solving the first two layers simultaneously (F2L) and using one-look algorithms for the last layer. CFOP requires learning more algorithms but is significantly faster, enabling sub-20 second solves with practice.

How can I improve my CFOP efficiency?

Focus on optimizing your Cross by planning ahead (ideally during inspection), reduce cube rotations during F2L, practice look-ahead to seamlessly transition between F2L pairs, and drill OLL and PLL recognition. Use our Interactive Simulator to practice each stage.

Do I need to learn all 78 algorithms at once?

No. Start with 2-look OLL and PLL which requires only about 16 algorithms. Once comfortable, gradually learn full OLL (57 cases) and full PLL (21 cases) over time. Many speedcubers take several months to learn all algorithms while continuously improving their times.

CFOP Method Tutorial: Cross, F2L, OLL & PLL

Ready to level up your solving speed? Dive into the advanced CFOP Method—learn Cross, F2L pairs, OLL, and PLL in about 8 minutes of reading with interactive demos!

Try the Interactive Simulator!

Want to practice the moves? Open the simulator.Open Simulator

What You'll Learn

Efficient Cross planning and execution.
Pairing and inserting F2L pairs intuitively and with algorithms.
Performing full OLL to orient the last layer in a single step.
Applying full PLL to permute the last layer pieces.
Expert tips and finger-tricks to shave off precious seconds.

CFOP at a Glance

Main Steps

OLL Cases (or 7 for 2-look)

PLL Cases (or 6 for 2-look)

F2L Cases

The 4-Step CFOP Roadmap

Click each step to trigger an animation on the cube and practice interactively!

Cross 🔲

Solve a cross on the bottom layer by aligning edge pieces to their centers. Plan your next F2L pairs as you complete the cross.

Show Interactive Example: Cross

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F2L 🤝

Pair each bottom-layer corner with its matching edge and insert it into the first two layers.

Show Interactive Example: Basic F2L Pair

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OLL 🎯

Orient the entire last layer in one step with full OLL. The popular Sune case is:

Show Interactive Example: Sune OLL

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PLL 🏁

Permute the last layer pieces to finish the cube. The U-perm swaps three edges:

Show Interactive Example: U-perm PLL

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CFOP Algorithm Overview

Key CFOP Method Algorithms
Step	Goal / Common Algorithms	Focus / Tip
Cross 🔲	Solve Cross (e.g., F R D R')	Plan moves efficiently. Aim for 8 moves or less.
F2L 🤝	Pair & Insert F2L (e.g., U R U' R')	Focus on intuitive pairing first, then learn algs. Minimize rotations.
OLL 🎯	Orient Last Layer (OLL) (e.g., Sune: R U R' U R U U R')	Recognize the 57 cases. Start with 2-Look OLL if needed.
PLL 🏁	Permute Last Layer (PLL) (e.g., U-perm: M M U M M U U M M U M M)	Recognize the 21 cases. Start with 2-Look PLL.

Frequently Asked Questions

Next Steps & Advanced Training

Master Full OLL Learn All PLL Cases

Additional Resources

J Perm's YouTube Channel– Excellent video tutorials on CFOP, algorithms, and tips.
SpeedSolving.com Wiki– Detailed lists of OLL/PLL algorithms and variations.
csTimer– Popular online timer for practice sessions.