CFOP Method: The Impact of Solving the Cross on the Bottom for Rubik’s Cube Efficiency
When using the CFOP method for solving the Rubik's Cube, many solvers find that solving the cross on the bottom can be beneficial, especially if you are aiming to improve your average time, such as from an impressive 25 seconds per solve.
Benefits of Solving the Cross on the Bottom
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Intuitive F2L: By placing the cross at the bottom, you can more easily visualize and utilize the F2L (First Two Layers) pairs. This setup allows for smoother insertion of the F2L pairs as you can see both the cross and the pieces that need to be paired up. Reduced Rotation: When the cross is on the bottom, you may need fewer rotations to align the pieces for F2L. This can save time and make your moves more efficient. Familiarity with the Cube: Many advanced solvers prefer to keep the cross on the bottom as it aligns with the way they practice and visualize their solves. This familiarity can lead to faster solves. Easier Transition to OLL and PLL: After completing the F2L, having the cross on the bottom may help you visualize the next steps in the OLL (Orientation of the Last Layer) and PLL (Permutation of the Last Layer) stages more clearly.Considerations
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Personal Preference: Some solvers find it easier to complete the cross on the top due to their own solving style or the way they learned. It's important to experiment and find what feels most comfortable for you. Practice: If you decide to try solving the cross on the bottom, practice it consistently to build muscle memory and improve efficiency.Case Study: A 25-Second Solver's Journey
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As a 25-second average solver, I set out to improve my time by adopting the CFOP method, particularly focusing on solving the cross on the bottom. This decision proved to be a game-changer in my solving journey.
After mastering the technique, I experienced a significant improvement in my solving times. My first sub-20 average optimum (Ao5) was 18.89, which meant I skipped right to a sub-19 solve! This surprising result highlighted the positive impact of solving the cross on the bottom.
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Learning to solve the cross on the bottom not only helped me to visualize the next steps while solving but also freed up valuable time by reducing the number of rotations needed for F2L.
Adapting to the New Routine
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Switching from solving the cross on top to solving it on the bottom can feel awkward at first, but it is indeed a common experience. I recommend learning to flick the D2 and using your ring finger for D' rotations as this can help in other aspects of the solve as well.
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This advice can help make the transition smoother and more efficient.
Conclusion
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The most important factor in adopting the CFOP method and solving the cross on the bottom is what works best for you personally. While it can provide numerous advantages, if you find that solving the cross on the top feels more intuitive and leads to faster solves, it's perfectly fine to stick with it.
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However, if you are looking to shave off some time, experimenting with the bottom cross could be worthwhile. The improvement in both efficiency and intuition that comes with practice can lead to significant improvements in your solving_times.