Rubik's Cube theory

This section introduces some basic cube theory. Understanding a little about the cube's properties will help you to realise what is possible and what is not, as well as help you to see more elegant ways to solve Rubik's Cube.

Basic definitions

Learn about pieces, permutations and orientations.

Laws of the cube

Learn what a "legal" move is and why certain positions are not reachable by legal moves.

Symmetry

Learn why positions that look different may in fact be the same.

Group theory

Become familiar with various subgroups of the cube and their properties.

Cycles

Learn what a cycle is and where cycles can be used.

Parity

Learn about parity and some problems it may cause.