The CFOP method is the most popular speedcubing technique in the world and is used by virtually all professional speedcubers. This advanced method can drastically improve your times, but it does require learning dozens of algorithms and lots of practice. For speedcube enthusiasts who want to take their skills to the next level, CFOP is an essential step in their development.

Whether you’re just starting with speedcubing or already have experience with the beginner’s method, learning CFOP opens the door to faster times and a deeper understanding of the cube. Let’s look step by step at how to master this powerful method.

What is the CFOP method and why is it so popular?

The CFOP method is a speedcubing technique that consists of four steps: Cross, F2L (First Two Layers), OLL (Orientation of the Last Layer) and PLL (Permutation of the Last Layer). This method is popular because it offers a perfect balance between speed and learnability for competitive cubers.

CFOP was developed by Jessica Fridrich and is therefore also known as the Fridrich method. Its popularity stems from the method’s efficiency: experienced cubers can consistently achieve times under 15 seconds with it. Moreover, CFOP is relatively systematically structured, allowing you to learn step by step without becoming overwhelmed.

Most world record holders and professional speedcubers use CFOP or variants of it. This makes it a natural choice for anyone who wants to get serious about speedcubing and participate in competitions.

How many algorithms do you need to learn for the CFOP method?

For the complete CFOP method, you need to learn a total of 78 algorithms: 57 for OLL (Orientation of the Last Layer) and 21 for PLL (Permutation of the Last Layer). This seems like a lot, but you don’t need to learn everything at once to become faster.

The Cross and F2L steps don’t require fixed algorithms, but are based on intuitive understanding and pattern recognition. This allows you to become significantly faster before mastering all algorithms. Many speedcubers start with a selection of the most common OLL and PLL cases.

A practical approach is to start with 2-look OLL and 2-look PLL, which requires only 16 algorithms. This already gives you a solid foundation to achieve times under 30 seconds. Then you can gradually add more algorithms as you become more comfortable with the method.

What is the difference between CFOP and the beginner’s method?

The main difference between CFOP and the beginner’s method is that CFOP solves the first two layers simultaneously (F2L) instead of layer by layer, and uses advanced algorithms for the last layer. This makes CFOP much faster, but also more complex to learn.

The beginner’s method solves the cube in seven steps: white cross, white corners, middle layer, yellow cross, orient yellow corners, position yellow corners, and position yellow edges. This method is more intuitive, but less efficient because you have to move the same pieces multiple times.

CFOP, on the other hand, combines steps and uses lookahead to minimize moves. Where the beginner’s method needs an average of 50-60 moves, CFOP can solve the same thing in 50-55 moves, but executed much more smoothly. The result is that experienced CFOP users can be 3-5 times faster than with the beginner’s method.

How do you start learning the Cross step?

Start learning the Cross by practicing making a cross on the bottom layer in a maximum of 8 moves, while holding the cube upside down so you can see the Cross. Focus on efficiency first before building speed.

The Cross is the foundation of every good CFOP solve, so it’s crucial to master this step well. Start by analyzing the Cross before you begin turning. Look at where the four edge pieces are located and plan a route to get them all to the correct position.

An important tip is to learn to make the Cross without looking at the bottom. Hold the cube so the Cross layer points downward and learn to execute the moves from memory. This saves valuable time and prepares you for lookahead during F2L. Practice Cross situations alone for 10-15 minutes daily to develop this skill.

Which F2L algorithms should you learn first?

F2L (First Two Layers) isn’t actually a collection of algorithms, but an intuitive method for creating and inserting corner-edge pairs. Start by learning the four basic insertions: when the pair is already correctly formed, when they are separated, and the two cases where they are incorrectly connected.

The most important thing about F2L is understanding how corner and edge pieces work together. Instead of memorizing algorithms, you focus on recognizing patterns and developing intuition. The four slots around the Cross can all be approached the same way, just from different angles.

Start by practicing one slot at a time. Deliberately create a corner-edge pair in the top layer and practice different ways to get this pair into the correct position. As you gain more experience, you automatically learn the most efficient move sequences for each situation. Many speedcubers develop their own preferences for certain F2L cases.

How long does it take to master the CFOP method?

It takes an average of 6-12 months to master CFOP well, depending on your practice time and previous experience with speedcubing. With daily practice of 30-60 minutes, you can achieve consistent times under 20 seconds within 3-6 months.

The learning curve varies by component of CFOP. You can master Cross and basic F2L within a few weeks, while fully learning all OLL and PLL algorithms can take months. It’s important to be patient and practice focused on one aspect at a time.

Your progress depends heavily on how you practice. Effective practice methods include using a timer, analyzing your solves, and practicing specific weak points. Many speedcubers notice that after 3 months of CFOP they are already significantly faster than with the beginner’s method, even without knowing all algorithms. For those who want to get serious about speedcubing, investing in a good speedcube is essential to optimally develop your techniques.