Intuitive Last Layer
Introduction to Intuitive Last Layer
Note: This section is still under construction! However, if you feel brave enough to try to make sense of this section, then go ahead! And even better, if you have any feedback on how to improve this section, please email me! Thanks!
When I teach people to solve the Rubik's cube with a beginner layer-by-layer method, I teach the first three steps (solving the first two layers) without any algorithms. I might show some "move sequences" but these can be understood by watching the pieces move around the cube. When I get to the last layer, this is where I have to write down a list of algorithms on a piece of paper. These algorithms for the last layer have to be memorized. It is quite hard to understand how they work. A simple explanation may be: they just do!
Does it feel weird that there's a sudden switch in thinking when you get from first two layers to the last layer? You switch from moves that you understand to sequences that seem to come out of nowhere. This section shows a way that allows you to continue using moves you can understand after finishing the first two layers.
Solving the last layer this way takes more time than with algorithms. So this is more for people with a interest in being able to solve the cube with complete understand. If you are mathematically inclined, you definitely want to take a look! This method has lots of math behind it. (But don't worry! I don't get into mathematical explanations or notations.)
What you need to know
You should be already able to solve the Rubik's cube using a layer-by-layer method. You should be able to solve the cross efficiently. You should also understand how to solve the rest of the first two layers without algorithms. This gives you understanding of how to the pieces move around the cube. You need that understanding to figure out the "move sequences" in Intuitive LL; otherwise, this is not very intuitive!
In addition to U, D, L, R, F, B, you need to know the move E. E stands for "equator." It moves the slice between U and D. The direction of E (clockwise) is given as follows.
That is all for now. Good luck!