How to solve a Skewb: the corner-turning cube
The Skewb looks like a cube but turns around its corners. A couple of short algorithms is all you need.
The Skewb looks like a cube, but each turn moves half the puzzle around a corner. It has 6 diamond-shaped centers and 8 corners, and needs very few algorithms.
Step 1: White face
Build the white center with four white corners so their side colors match. This is intuitive: bring a corner up, turn, then drop it in.
Step 2: Top corners
Flip white to the bottom. Use two short algorithms (Sledgehammer: R′ L R L′ and its mirror) to orient and swap the top corners without breaking the white face.
Step 3: Centers
With corners done, only centers remain. Reuse the same two algorithms, each cycling three centers, until the puzzle is complete.
The Skewb is one of the fastest puzzles to solve once learned – many people go sub-5 seconds.
Frequently asked questions
How many algorithms does a Skewb need?
Related posts
How to solve a Rubik’s cube 3×3 for beginners (easy 7 steps)
Seven simple steps to solve your first 3×3 Rubik’s cube, with algorithms and tips to avoid mistakes.
Rubik’s cube notation: how to read U R F L D B algorithms
Understanding notation lets you read any Rubik algorithm. A full, easy-to-remember explanation.
How to solve a Rubik’s cube 2×2 (easy beginner method)
The 2×2 has only 8 corners. If you know the 3×3, you can solve the 2×2 right away.