There is a simple version of how to complete a rubik's cube 3x3 and a complete version. Both are here, in that order.

If something here stops matching what you see on screen, the game has probably changed a value in an update. There is a fast way and a safe way, and they are not the same thing. Start with the simplest option before touching anything that is hard to reverse.

The short answer

The short version is that one setting or one step controls the outcome, and everything else is refinement.

The straightforward version

If you are short on time, the first section alone is usually enough. There is a fast way and a safe way, and they are not the same thing. Most of the disagreement online here comes from people describing different versions. If something here stops matching what you see on screen, the game has probably changed a value in an update.

The approach below has been checked against the current version rather than a patch from two years ago. Most advice on this topic assumes you already know half the answer, which is exactly the problem. There is a fast way and a safe way, and they are not the same thing.

Edge cases worth knowing

Understanding the reason behind a step lets you adapt it when your situation differs. If something here stops matching what you see on screen, the game has probably changed a value in an update. There is a fast way and a safe way, and they are not the same thing.

  • Check the version you are running before following any step-by-step advice.
  • Test one change at a time instead of five at once.
  • Back up your save if the game gives you the option.
  • Restart fully after a change rather than trusting a quick reload.
  • Write down what you changed, so you can undo it if the result gets worse.
  • Confirm the starting conditions before following any steps.

Why it works

The result is consistent once the inputs are, which is less obvious than it sounds. Most advice on this topic assumes you already know half the answer, which is exactly the problem. If something here stops matching what you see on screen, the game has probably changed a value in an update. There is a fast way and a safe way, and they are not the same thing.

Understanding the reason behind a step lets you adapt it when your situation differs. Most advice on this topic assumes you already know half the answer, which is exactly the problem. There is a fast way and a safe way, and they are not the same thing.

Mistakes worth avoiding

  • Following a guide written for an older version and assuming nothing moved.
  • Changing several settings at once, then having no idea which one helped.
  • Skipping the preparation step because it looks boring, then repeating the hard part four times.
  • Trusting a video thumbnail over the actual patch notes.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an easier way?

Often, but the easy route tends to be less reliable. The method above trades a couple of extra minutes for a result that works the first time.

Is there a faster method?

Usually yes, and usually it is riskier. The route above trades a little speed for a much lower chance of having to start over.

Does this apply to every version?

The steps target the current release. Older versions usually behave the same way, though menus may sit in different places.

That covers how to complete a rubik's cube 3x3 — start with the short answer, and come back to the details only if something goes sideways.