Ortega

Introduction

This tutorial will explain how to solve the 2x2 cube using the Ortega/Varasano method (the best name is a matter of debate). If you are new to solving cubes, you may want to look at my 2x2 Beginner Tutorial first.

This method has three steps:

1. Solve (orient) one side
2. Solve (orient) the opposite side
3. Permute both layers (i.e., fix everything!)

The Ortega/Varasano method solves the 2x2 efficiently using 12 algorithms. This is most effective when you can solve it “color neutral” - able to begin with any of the six colors. For the purposes of this tutorial, the first side will be white, so the opposite side will be yellow.

If needed, review cube notation before diving into the first step.