The CFOP method in four steps
The CFOP method, also called the Fridrich method, is named after its four steps: Cross, F2L (first two layers), OLL (orient the last layer) and PLL (permute the last layer). It builds on the same layer-by-layer idea as the beginner method, but does each layer in fewer, larger steps. Pick a step on the right of the tool to see on the 3D cube which pieces it solves, or switch to Example solve to play a full solve.
1. Cross
Solve the four white edges around the white center, each one matching the center on its side. In CFOP the cross is done on the bottom, so you can see the rest of the cube while you solve. It is planned during inspection and solved without algorithms.
2. F2L
Pair each white corner with the edge above it and insert the pair into its slot, four times. This replaces the separate corner and middle-layer steps of the beginner method. There are 41 F2L cases per slot, and most cubers learn them by understanding how a pair forms rather than by memory.
3. OLL
Turn all top pieces so yellow faces up, in one algorithm out of 57. Beginners use 2-look OLL: three edge cases, then seven corner cases. See all OLL algorithms.
4. PLL
Move the top pieces to their places, in one algorithm out of 21, or in two steps with 2-look PLL (six algorithms). See all PLL algorithms.
The example solve
The example starts from a 22-move scramble (generated by our cube solver and checked by our test). After the scramble you turn the cube over, so white is on the bottom. The solution then does the cross in five moves, four F2L pairs (cases 7, 1, 10 and 17, with a y turn of the whole cube before each new pair), OLL 45 and the T perm. Our test replays it and checks after every stage that exactly the pieces of that stage are solved. Real solves rarely line up this neatly: you usually need a turn of the top (AUF) before the OLL and PLL algorithms, and the pairs come in whatever cases the scramble gives.
How to learn CFOP
- Solve the cross on the bottom without looking at the moves you make; practice it until it takes a few seconds of planning.
- Learn intuitive F2L, starting with the four basic inserts.
- Learn the 4-look last layer: 2-look OLL and 2-look PLL, 16 cases in all (see the algorithms overview).
- Add full PLL (21), then full OLL (57).
Track your progress with the cube timer. Other methods take a different route: Roux builds blocks and finishes with the middle slice, and ZZ orients all edges first.
Sources: Speedsolving.com wiki: CFOP method. Rules checked . Found a problem? Tell us.
Questions
What does CFOP stand for?
Cross, F2L (first two layers), OLL (orientation of the last layer) and PLL (permutation of the last layer), the four steps of the method.
How many algorithms does CFOP use?
Full CFOP uses 57 OLL and 21 PLL algorithms, 78 in all. F2L has 41 cases per slot, but they are often solved by understanding. The 4-look last layer gets you started with 16.
Is CFOP good for beginners?
Yes, once you can solve the cube with the beginner method. CFOP keeps the same layer-by-layer order, so you can switch one step at a time.
Why is the cross on the bottom?
With the cross on the bottom, the F2L pieces you need to find are mostly in the top layer and on the sides, where you can see them without turning the cube over.