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Martian Lubricant has earned its place as a top pick in the speedcubing community. This best-selling lubricant is known for its fast and moderately controllable feel, which appeals to a broad range of cubers. Its soft texture makes it an excellent choice for all puzzles, particularly larger cubes. The application is straightforward, with about six drops recommended for most cases.

So is this the best lube to use for a GAN cube? Well, what sets Martian lube apart is its versatility. It's not just a lubricant; it's a performance enhancer. Applying Martian to a new puzzle extends its lifespan by reducing friction, thus improving its performance. Moreover, Martian's compatibility with other lubricants means it can be mixed to create a unique feel tailored to individual preferences.

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Lunar Lubricant takes the cube's turning experience to new heights. As SpeedCubeShop's fastest silicone-based lubricant, it's perfect for those seeking light, fast, and lasting turning feel. Unlike its water-based counterparts, Lunar offers a 'soft' feel that significantly enhances the cubing experience.

So, is this the best lube to use for a GAN cube, well while it's recommended for all puzzles, especially large cubes, Lunar lube maintains its consistency and effectiveness over time. Just like Martian, six drops are generally sufficient, and its ability to blend with other lubricants allows for customizing the cube's feel to exact specifications.

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Stardust Lubricant is a unique player in the lubricant market. This water-based lubricant is designed not to alter the cube's natural feel while pushing its performance to the limits. Most water-based lubricants tend to dry out quickly, but Stardust is an exception. As it dries, it hardens, contributing to a long-lasting feel that surpasses other water-based options.

Is this the best lube to use for a GAN cube? Actually, Stardust lube is recommended for all puzzles. Its application process is similar to Martian and Lunar, with six drops being the norm. What makes Stardust truly special is its ability to be combined with other lubricants, like Lunar, for an enhanced, super-fast experience.

Combining Lubricants: Crafting the Perfect Lube

One of the most exciting aspects of Martian, Lunar, and Stardust is their ability to be mixed making one amazing best lube to use for a GAN cube. Each lubricant brings its unique properties to the table, and when combined, they can create a customized feel that caters to the specific preferences of any speed cuber. For instance, mixing Martian's speed and softness with Lunar's light and fast qualities can produce a cube that is quick yet controllable. Adding Stardust into the mix can further enhance the cube's longevity and maintain its desired feel for a longer period.

Applying the Lubricants

Applying lubricants to a GAN cube, though straightforward, demands precision and careful consideration, particularly when selecting the best lube for optimal performance. The generally advised starting point of six drops serves as a useful guideline, but the ideal quantity can vary depending on factors such as the specific model of the GAN cube and the personal preferences of the cuber. To achieve the best results, it’s crucial to apply the lubricant evenly across the cube's mechanisms. This can be done by strategically placing drops in key areas that impact the cube's movement. After application, it's important to work the lubricant thoroughly into the cube. This is best achieved through performing several solves, which allows the lube to distribute evenly and coat the internal mechanisms effectively. This process not only enhances the smoothness and speed of the cube but also ensures a consistent feel and longevity of the cube's performance. Regular maintenance and adjustments, including additional lubrication, might be needed over time to maintain the cube’s optimal condition

Conclusion

In summary, the journey to optimize a GAN cube's performance finds a robust solution in the use of Martian, Lunar, and Stardust lubricants. Each of these lubricants presents a unique set of properties that significantly enhances the cube’s capabilities. Martian lubricant is celebrated for its ability to provide a fast and soft feel, making it an ideal choice for those seeking speed and a gentle touch in their solves. Lunar, with its fast silicone-based composition, is the go-to for enthusiasts looking for light, quick, and durable turning experiences. Stardust, unique in its water-based formulation, ensures that the cube retains its natural feel while pushing its limits for extended play. The true beauty lies in the interplay of these lubricants when used together. By combining them, cubers can tailor the tactile feedback and overall performance of their GAN cube to match their individual preferences and solving style. However, dont stop there, you can also check out our other lines of lubes and what works for you in the chart below! 

Furthermore, the versatility of these lubricants means they cater to a wide spectrum of needs within the speedcubing community. From beginners to seasoned competitors, each can find their ideal setup within these options. The choice of lubricant, be it a single type or a mixture, depends heavily on the specific needs of both the cube and its handler. Some may prioritize speed, others may look for longevity or a particular feel during solves. Ultimately, the journey towards the perfect turn is a personal one, influenced by individual preferences and the unique characteristics of each GAN cube. The introduction of Martian, Lunar, and Stardust lubricants into this equation not only broadens the horizon for customization but also elevates the overall experience of solving. These lubricants are not merely additives; they are transformative agents that redefine what is possible in the realm of speedcubing. With these tools at their disposal, cubers are not just chasing an elusive ideal; they are equipped to achieve and surpass their cubing goals, making the perfect turn not just a distant dream but a tangible reality. So now that you know what is the best lube to use for a GAN cube, check out blogs like these and more at SpeedCubeShop today! 

Using the Correct Speedcube Timer

At World Cube Association WCA Competitions, it's standard protocol to time your official solves using the SpeedStacks timer. To ensure you're best prepared for these competitions, it's wise to replicate this environment at home by practicing with the same kind of timer, preferably the latest version, the SpeedStacks G5 Pro Timer.

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To use this Timer, look for the pads with a hand symbol. By positioning both of your hands on these pads, a sequence of lights will begin: red followed by green. The green light signifies that you're ready to start the timer. When set, lift your hands off the pads, and commence your cube solve. Once you've successfully completed the puzzle, halt the timer by placing your hands back on the marked pads. Do note that the process requires you to first set down your cube before halting the timer. To avoid potential damage to your cube from placing it down on a hard surface, especially the vulnerable corners, it's advisable to utilize a cube mat. 

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Adhering to WCA's strict guidelines, you should initiate the timer using only your fingers. Ensure that no part of your hands below the junction of your fingers and palms touches the timer. While you can stop the timer using any part of your hands, your palms should be oriented downwards during the process. Infringements of these guidelines lead to a penalty of an additional 2 seconds to your solve time.

Though some cubers lean towards mobile apps or online platforms for timing, it's crucial to note that these may not always provide consistent times across different platforms. For instance, halting a timer on a mobile app typically requires a shorter span than on a dedicated, competition-grade SpeedStacks G5 Pro Timer. Therefore, if you're serious about competing, it's highly beneficial to practice with the same equipment employed in official competitions to familiarize yourself with the exact format.

Inspection with a Cube Cover

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Prior to starting an official solve, you're allotted a 15-second window to examine the scrambled cube and strategize your moves. Exceeding this 15-second inspection limit results in a +2 second addition to your solve time. Should your inspection time surpass 17 seconds, your solve is labeled as a DNF (Did Not Finish).

During an official speedcubing competition, your scrambled cube remains concealed beneath a cube cover. Once you signal your readiness, a designated judge seated beside you will unveil the cube and begin timing your inspection phase with a stopwatch. As your inspection progresses, the judge will verbally notify you at the 8-second and 12-second marks.

For a more authentic practice experience at home, you might consider enlisting a friend or family member to play the role of the judge. However, for those practicing solo, many speedcubing timers come equipped with a feature designed to monitor your inspection duration, making them an invaluable tool for independent training.

Simulating Nerves

A prominent distinction between solving a Rubik's Cube in the comfort of one's home and in a competition setting is the impact of anxiety. It's not uncommon for cubers to register significantly longer times in competitive environments, with nerves playing a major role in this disparity.

To mimic speedcubing competitions ambiance and train oneself for such pressure, introducing certain distractions can be beneficial. This could mean playing music, ambient sounds of a bustling crowd, or even practicing in a more public setting. Adjusting the room temperature can also replicate competition nerves; a cooler environment often mirrors the bodily effects of an adrenaline surge. Both adrenaline and cold can divert warmth from your extremities, concentrating it in the head and chest area. This can leave your hands feeling chilled and potentially hinder nimble movements, mimicking the sensation many experience during actual competitions.

Improving Grip

Yet another challenge you might encounter in a cubing competition is the cube's surface feel. Many cubes possess plastic exteriors that can become quite slick, especially if anxiety-induced perspiration comes into play. A solution to this is to opt for a "PVC Coating" when purchasing speedcubes from SpeedCubeShop.com. This service, which adheres to WCA standards, enhances both the cube's grip and color brightness, facilitating better lookahead and swift solving techniques!

Putting it all together

In summary, to replicate the atmosphere of a speedcubing competition at home, begin with a computer-generated scramble based on WCA standards. Let your friend obscure the scrambled cube under a cover. Once you're prepared, signal them to unveil the cube and initiate the stopwatch. Pay heed to their call-outs at the 8-second and 12-second marks during your inspection. After your brief inspection, trigger the SpeedStacks timer by placing your hands on its pads and watch for the transition from red to green light. Post this, swiftly solve your cube, drop it on a mat, and promptly stop the timer. Your assisting 'judge' should record your time and any penalties. This process should be repeated for a total of five solves. To compute your average of 5 (ao5), discard the fastest and slowest solves, averaging out the remaining three. By engaging in such mock competitions, not only do you prepare better for actual WCA contests, but you also indulge in a fun and engaging activity. Holding these mock competitions with friends, alternating as judges, further enriches the experience and readiness for real competitions. Best wishes on your cubing journey!

What is Speed Cube Lube, and why would I want to use it?

Lubricants are commonly used in speed cubes to achieve a couple of things

1. Extending the lifespan of your speed cube by reducing friction where pieces contact each other internally
2. Change the turning speed of a speed cube (to slow down or speed up)
3. Change the feel of a speed cube (gummy, smooth)
4. Reduce internal spring noise

A Brief History

Back in the heyday of Rubik's brand 3x3 cubes, speedcubers were on a relentless quest for a smoother and more enjoyable turning experience. Their journey led them to some rather unconventional lubricants, like WD-40 and Vaseline. These rudimentary solutions worked wonders in reducing the friction where the cube's pieces met, creating that coveted silky-smooth feel. But there was a catch – these early lubricants came with a downside. They tended to wreak havoc on the cube's plastic, necessitating a thorough cleanup every couple of days and melting of the plastic. Fast forward to today, and we're in a whole new era of speed cube lubes. These modern marvels have bid farewell to the hassle of constant cleaning. Mostly comprised of silicone, these lubricants have been fine-tuned to perfection. They can be customized with additional ingredients to alter their properties, catering to the unique preferences of speedcubers. And for those who prefer a faster, water-based option, there are choices like our Stardust Lube on the market. Say goodbye to the days of WD-40 woes, and welcome the era of user-friendly, high-performance speed cube lubes!

Application

Our Cosmic Lube collection of cube lubricants now comes in three convenient sizes: 5ML, 10ML, and 15ML, all in user-friendly dropper-style bottles. Applying lubricant to your speed cube has never been smoother – simply unscrew the cap of the dropper bottle, and delicately dispense a few drops at the contact points between the pieces. Here's a pro tip: Start with just a small number of drops (4-6) to begin with. Remember, it's easier to add more lubricant if needed than to remove excess. Removing excess lube would require cleaning out your speedcube, which can be a bit of a puzzle itself! So, embrace precision and start with a light touch to achieve that perfect, buttery-smooth cube action you crave.

If you're aiming for peak cube performance, it's crucial not to neglect the core, often referred to as "the hardware." Here's the lowdown on how to properly lubricate it for a smoother solving experience. Start by locating the center screw, which typically hides beneath the center cap on 3x3 cubes. Carefully unscrew the screw completely, exposing the spring beneath. Now, this is where precision comes into play. Apply a couple of drops of your chosen lubricant directly onto the spring and screw. But here's the trick – make sure you avoid getting any lubricant on the screw's threads. This ensures a smooth, hassle-free reassembly. As you screw the core back in, take a moment to assess your speedcube's tension. It's the perfect opportunity to make any necessary re-tensioning adjustments for that ideal feel. When it comes to core lubrication, we highly recommend our Vortex lube . Thanks to its weight and speed-enhancing properties, it's the go-to choice for elevating your cube's core performance to the next level!

Common Terms

• Fast
  • Makes the turn speed of a puzzle faster
  • Our favorites include our Lunar Lube and Stardust Lube
• Slow
  • Makes the turn speed of a puzzle slower and more controllably
• Smooth
  • Reduction of friction and the "sandy" feel that some cubes come with out-of-the-box
• Control
  • Associated with "slow", is generally used to describe lubricants that slightly slow down a puzzle to attain a more manageable speed. Useful for most puzzles nowadays, since most come out of the box with a very fast turning speed.
  • Our favorite control lubes include Nebula Lube and Cosmos Lube
• Gummy
  
  • Is often referred to as a "buttery" or "soft" turning feel
  • Our favorite gummy lubes include Galaxy Lube and Nebula Lube
• Heavy
  • Thicker and usually smoother turning feel
  • Our favorite heavy lubes include Vortex lube and Nebula Lube
• Sandy/Dry
  
  • Feels like two pieces of paper rubbing against to each other (to an extent)
  • Lubricant is commonly used to remove the sandy/dry feel that some puzzles have out of the box

Lubricant Comparison

When it comes to our Cosmic Lube collection, we've got your back with a handy set of "stats" for each lubricant in our arsenal. Whether you're in the market for a speedy solution to rev up your vintage speed cubes or a gummy lube to give your speed cube more substance when turning, we've got the perfect formula to meet your cube turning needs! 

Helpful bundles

Can't decide which lubricants to get or what combinations work well? Want to try them all and save money? Check out some popular lubricant bundles!

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Conclusion

In the world of speedcubing, the right lubricant can make all the difference. Speedcube lube isn't just about keeping your cube running smoothly; it's a game-changer that can:

• Extend the lifespan of your beloved speed cube by reducing friction between its internal pieces.
• Give you the power to fine-tune your speedcube's turning speed and feel, whether you want it to slow down or speed up.
• Transform the tactile experience of your cube, from gummy to delightfully smooth.
• Banish annoying internal spring noise for a quieter, focused solving session.

In conclusion, speedcubing has come a long way from the days of makeshift lubricants like WD-40 and Vaseline. Today, we're in an era of advanced lubricants that enhance your cube's performance without the hassle of frequent cleaning. Our Cosmic Lube collection offers various sizes to cater to your needs, ensuring a smooth application process.

Remember, precision is key when applying lubricant, and it's easier to start with a light touch and add more if needed. The right lubricant can extend your cube's lifespan, adjust its turn speed, and transform its feel.

So, whether you're a seasoned cuber or just starting out, our range of high-performance lubes and bundled options at SpeedCubeShop can elevate your solving experience. Don't let friction hold you back – embrace the power of lubrication and conquer those cubes like a pro!

Introduction

The 3rd step of vanilla CFOP, Orientation of the Last Layer, or OLL, is where the pieces in the U layer are "oriented" - all of the U layer pieces' colors are facing upwards, but the pieces are not permuted.

There are a total of 57 algorithms for full OLL, and it is advised to learn all of them after having learned 2 Look OLL

Don't know how to read the letters? Check our article on cubing notation for 3x3.

Flashcards

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Algorithms

Click on the algorithm to be linked to speedcubestats.com's fingertrick simulator, which has animated versions of all of the algorithms.

After the attempt is finished, score is calculated by subtracting the number of unsolved cubes by the number of solved cubes, and in the case of a tie, the faster time is better. For example, a 7/10 in 50:33 attempt would be 4 points because 7 solved cubes - 3 unsolved cubes = 4 points. However, this would be ranked worse than a 4/4 in 30:10, as the 4/4 attempt is faster.

Before attempting multiblind, you should know how to solve a 3x3 blindfolded.  

3BLD vs MBLD

At first glance, multiblind looks the same as 3BLD, but with more cubes. However, there’s a few changes that make MBLD slightly different. 

Memo-execution order: In 3BLD, most people memorize corners, memorize edges, execute edges, and execute corners in that order. This is done so edges can be stored in short-term memory, as you execute them right after you finish memorizing them. However, in MBLD, both edges and corners need to be stored in long-term memory. Therefore, it makes more sense to memorize and execute in the same order. Most people choose to memorize edges, memorize corners, execute edges, then execute corners. 

Memorization technique: An average 3BLD solve will require you to memorize about 20 letters. This can be done using images, audio, or visuals. However, in MBLD, you have to memorize a lot more. To accomplish this, a technique known as Roman Rooms (Method of Loci) is used to memorize large amounts of information effectively.

Roman Rooms

The roman rooms technique involves placing objects along a set route through rooms that you’re familiar with. The rooms can be anything, from a bedroom to a playground, to a road intersection. You can even use a location in a video game as a room! The most important thing when choosing rooms is that you’re very familiar with them and can easily picture them in your head. 

Source: 4BLD (Timothy Goh) 

You can split a room into several loci to store more information. Loci are just particular points, or locations, in that room. For example, if you were to use a bedroom as a room, then you might have a locus on the bed, on the desk, and on the floor near the door. It’s important to have easily distinguishable loci - if they’re too similar, the information stored in them might get mixed up. 

To apply roman rooms to multiblind, the letter pairs that you memorize from the cube can be translated into objects placed in your rooms. Typically, the corner memo of a cube is placed in one locus, and the edge memo is either placed in one locus or split across two. This is best explained using an example:

Edge memo: QU BN SA JR FW VA

Letter pairs: QUartz BeaN SAnta JaR FloWer VAse

For this example, we’re going to use the bedroom example from earlier and split the edge memo across two loci. The first locus is the bed. Try to visualize a piece of quartz, a bean, and Santa on top of the bed. It’s important to keep these in order, so mentally place them in a line from left to right. The second locus is on the desk. Visualize a jar, flower, and vase on the desk. To make it more memorable, it helps to have some interaction between the objects. You can visualize a jar with a flower in it, then the flower moving to a vase.

Corner memo: BT MD OL SR

Letter pairs: BaT MaD OLd StaR

The third locus is on the floor near the door. Picture a bat getting mad at an old star in that location. It should feel like a scene - your memorization is the action, and the room is the setting.

Congratulations! You just used roman rooms to memorize a cube. You can repeat this process using different rooms and loci to memorize as many cubes as you need.

Review

Reviewing your memorization is important to actually retaining it. When attempting a small number of cubes, you can review everything each time you memorize another cube. For example, you go through cube 1, then cubes 1-2, then cubes 1-3, then cubes 1-4, and so on. However, this is time-consuming, and at a higher level it’s better to use a structured review system.

Conclusion

A linear memo-exec order, roman rooms, and a review system are crucial to successfully doing multiblind. Being comfortable with these techniques will make multiblind much more manageable and will help you get your first success.

Popular MBLD Cubes - relatively cheap but solid performance, perfect for multiblind due to the high amount of cubes required:

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Keep in mind that all cubes in multiblind should not have a logo for official WCA competition. The cubes listed above have removable logo stickers rather than logos printed directly on the cube.

What is CFOP?

CFOP stands for Cross, First Two Layers (F2L), Orientation of the Last Layer (OLL) and Permutation of the Last Layer (PLL). It is by far the most popular advanced speed cubing method, with the vast majority of 3x3 and 4x4+ WCA records using the CFOP method.

This method was first developed in the early 1980s combining innovations by a number of speed cubers. Czech speedcuber and the namesake of the method Jessica Fridrich is generally credited for popularizing it by publishing it online in 1997. Wikipedia

Steps

Cross

Solve a cross onto one of the sides of the cube; most commonly the white side.

General Tips for Cross

• Solve the cross directly onto the bottom layer, so you don't have to rotate the cube after its completion
• All crosses can be solved in 8 moves or less

F2L

Solve the first two layers, by solving the four "slots" around the cube by pairing and inserting corner and edge pieces at the same time

General Tips for Cross

• Know how to pair pieces together from multiple angles
• Learn how to solve into any slot, not just the front right slot

OLL

Orient the last layer edges and corners

• Learn how to solve OLL with good fingertricks and algorithms in order to solve the step the fastest possible

PLL

Solve the last layer edges and corners

• Learn how to solve PLL with good fingertricks and algorithms in order to solve the step the fastest possible

Resources

https://futurpagerank.com/library

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What is ZZ?

ZZ, named after it's creator Zbigniew Zborowski, is known for its low movecount and high TPS (turn per second) solving style, along with no rotation of the cube once solving. It shares similar solving technique to CFOP, but has an extra step at the start known as "EOLine", which leads to F2L (first two layers) being easier to solve. It's also well known for its heavy algorithm usage, with numerous subsets for both last layer and influencing last layer with the last pair, thanks to the oriented edges in the EOLine step.

Steps

EOLine, EOCross and Variations

EOLine is the original first step of ZZ proposed by its creator, where the solver orients all edges and solves the front and back edges on the D (bottom) layer. This allows for a rotationaless solve and for more options in the final layer as explained below.

EOCross is similar to EOLine, where edges are oriented, but a full CFOP-style cross is solved instead.

An edge is defined as oriented if it can be solved using only R, L, U and D face turns. If an edge cannot be solved using these face turns then it is a misoriented or 'bad' edge.
https://futurpagerank.com/zz.php?p=eoline 

F2L

After EOLine, a 3x2x1 block on both the left and right faces. This can be done without rotations since all edges are oriented.

After EOCross, the first two layers can be solved similarly to CFOP. Since the edges were oriented in the first step, this can also be done without any rotations.

Last Layer

Last layer has a lot of solving options thanks to the orientation of the edges in the first step, meaning that there will always be a "cross" on top of the U layer.

ZBLL

Standard Last Layer

4th Pair influencing Last Layer

Corner Twist

A singular twisted corner is an impossible case to get on 3x3, and any NxN puzzle. This can occur when a 3x3 is assembled incorrectly or a corner is accidentally twisted when turning.

In order to fix this, simply grab the corner with your thumb, index, and middle fingers and turn the corner clockwise/counterclockwise.

Swapped Pieces

Two edge pieces cannot be swapped, either adjacently or opposite on a 3x3 Rubik's cube. The same can be said for two corner pieces.

In order to fix this, solve the cube firstly and identify the two pieces that are unsolvable. If they are edge pieces, put the edge pieces in the U (top) layer, and turn the 45 degrees. Take the edge out (this may require minimal force) and repeat with the other each piece. Swap these pieces and place them back into the puzzle.

However, this case can occur on bigger NxN puzzles such as 4x4, 5x5 etc., and Square-1 - this is known as parity. 

Multiples of the Same Color

In images and illustrations of the Rubik's cubes, common mistakes can occur where multiples of the same color appear incorrectly. These include two of the same color on a single edge or corner piece, or more than one center color on the cube, as each center has its own color.

This is unsolvable. If you come across a real cube with multiples of the same sticker, either purchase new stickers or swap the stickers into a solve position. If it is stickerless, you may have to take the puzzle apart, use the videos above.

Introduction

Proposed by Yash Mehta in 2020, the Mehta method relies on high algorithm usage, similar to ZZ, which has the effect of high TPS. Unlike CFOP, the method also has a lower average move count in comparison, similar to the move count of Roux.

For "full Mehta", known as Mehta-OS, OS standing for Option Select, the solver must know enough of the algorithms from four different "paths"

Pronunciation

Steps

First Block (FB)

Solve a 1x2x3 block on the D layer

3 Quarters Belt (3QB)

Solve 3 E-Slices

Edge Orientation & Last Edge (EOLE)

Insert the final E-slice edge and orient all edges at the same time.

Option Select

One of five major paths can be used to solve the rest of the cube

There is a final Mehta option, Mehta-TDR, which involves solving the final DR block, and then solving the U layer with ZBLL, which consists of 843 algorithms, which may be unrealistic for a human to learn to is not considered in Mehta-OS, OS standing for Option Select, where the best "path" or final steps are chosen. Solvers are advised to default to CDRLL path if there are not any good options.

Source: https://futurpagerank.com/Mehta/index.html 

Should you learn Mehta?

Mehta boasts a rotationless and high turns per second, TPS, solving style in exchange for learning a lot of algorithms. A lower movecount is also a great selling point, but it may be difficult for current CFOP users especially to learn both how to block-build for Mehta's first step and the heavy algorithm reliance. However, for dedicated cubers the Mehta method could in theory be high speed, fast time producing method - however time will tell whether this method gains popularity and is actually viable in WCA competition.

Resources

https://www.speedsolving.com/wiki/index.php/Mehta

https://futurpagerank.com/r/Cubers/comments/jyya9c/the_mehta_method/ 

https://futurpagerank.com/Mehta/index.html 

Notation

		Turn the Up (U) Layer
		Turn the Right (R) Layer
		Turn the Left (L) Layer
		Turn the Front (F) Layer
		Turn the Back (B) Layer
		Turn the Down (D) Layer
		Turn the middle (M) layer (Turns in the same direction as the L move)
		Turn the equator (E) layer (Turns the same direction as the D move)
		Turn the S layer (Turns the same direction as the F layer)

Counterclockwise and 180°

All standard notation without any suffixes indicate a 90° clockwise rotation, e.g. R refers to a rotation of the right face 90° clockwise.

To indicate a 90° counterclockwise notation, an apostrophe ' is placed after the letter corresponding to the whichever face needs to be turned 90° counterclockwise,e.g. R' refers to a rotation of the right face 90° counterclockwise.

For a 180° rotation, a number 2 is placed after the corresponding letter similar to the apostrophe indicating counterclockwise moves, e.g. U2 refers to a rotation of the upper face 180° (counterclockwise/clockwise, dependent on case) - not the band!

Wide Moves

Wide moves turn two layers at once and are indicated by either a lower case letter or a W suffix after a letter. For example, r or Rw refers to a 90° clockwise rotation of both the right and middle layers.

Brackets

In algorithm sites such as speedcubestats.com, you may see both square and/or round brackets containing letters. These brackets group like sets of turns together, commonly known as triggers.

For example, an algorithm for OLL (Orientation of the Last Layer) 20 features a R U R' trigger enclosed between circular brackets. A variant of this can be found in OLL 56, where a similar trigger is enclosed but wide R moves are used instead.

Triggers are useful for breaking up the algorithms into "chunks" - which can make learning algorithms a lot easier and more digestable.

After having learned basic speed cubing notation, the next step is to start implementing more efficient fingertricks for turning the puzzle - check out J Perm's video tutorial on 3x3 fingertricks.