Rubik's Cube Notation

Rubik's Cube is a famous and challenging puzzle game that was invented in 1974. The Rubik's Cube notation is the set of symbols used to describe the movements and patterns on the cube. These symbols are necessary when solving the cube, and they are also helpful to language-independent communication between cube enthusiasts.

The Basics

The following symbols are the basic notation used to describe Rubik's Cube movements:

• U : turn the upper face of the cube clockwise by 90 degrees.
• U' : turn the upper face of the cube counterclockwise by 90 degrees.
• D : turn the down face of the cube clockwise by 90 degrees.
• D' : turn the down face of the cube counterclockwise by 90 degrees.
• L : turn the left face of the cube clockwise by 90 degrees.
• L' : turn the left face of the cube counterclockwise by 90 degrees.
• R : turn the right face of the cube clockwise by 90 degrees.
• R' : turn the right face of the cube counterclockwise by 90 degrees.
• F : turn the front face of the cube clockwise by 90 degrees.
• F' : turn the front face of the cube counterclockwise by 90 degrees.
• B : turn the back face of the cube clockwise by 90 degrees.
• B' : turn the back face of the cube counterclockwise by 90 degrees.

Advanced Notation

The basic notation only scratches the surface of Rubik's Cube notation. There are many advanced symbols that describe movements and patterns that involve multiple steps or multiple faces.

Cube Rotation

• x : rotate the entire cube along the x-axis.
• y : rotate the entire cube along the y-axis.
• z : rotate the entire cube along the z-axis.

Cube Inversion

• 2 : perform the movement twice.

Advanced Movements

• M : turn the middle layer clockwise by 90 degrees.
• M' : turn the middle layer counterclockwise by 90 degrees.
• E : turn the equator layer (between the up and down faces) clockwise by 90 degrees.
• E' : turn the equator layer counterclockwise by 90 degrees.
• S : turn the standing layer (between the left and right faces) clockwise by 90 degrees.
• S' turn the standing layer counterclockwise by 90 degrees.

Algorithms

An algorithm refers to a series of moves that solve a specific Rubik's Cube pattern. Algorithms are often written as a sequence of notation, such as "R U R' U R U2 R'". These algorithms can be learned and used to solve the cube more efficiently and effectively.

Conclusion

Rubik's Cube notation is an essential resource for any serious cuber. The symbols and notation described in this guide are not exhaustive, and there are many more complex patterns and movements that can be learned with practice. However, this guide provides a solid foundation for anyone looking to learn about Rubik's Cube notation and how to solve the cube.