Anzan Genius Mind

The CFOP method, also known as the Fridrich method, is one of the most popular speedcubing methods among cubers.

There are four layers of the method: a cross, the first two layers, the orientation of the last layer, and a permutation of the last layer. In comparison to the beginners' method, this method allows speedcubers to solve their cubes in fewer moves.

So how long does it take for someone to master the CFOP?

Below are some answers from our trainers:

Isaac Wong: For me, there wasn't any stress to learn things quickly, so I just took it at my own pace. I didn't really have friends pushing me to learn faster or anything. Because sometimes if two people are learning together they can motivate each other. So I started in p6 and completed it in sec1.

Marc Lim: For full cfop (all the OLL and PLL algorithms) and advanced cross and F2L (being able to see an F2L case and execute the solution without needing to pause in between) it took me about 12 months.

Ansel Lim: I am still working on improving my CFOP. When I was 15 I learnt F2L, it took me 2 weeks to learn, and 3 months to get below 30 seconds with it. For OLL and PLL you don’t need to learn everything to become below 20 seconds so I didn’t go memorise all 70 algorithms. Then every few months there are new finger tricks, shortcuts and algorithms, so got to keep learning even if you already understand CFOP.

Remember, no matter how long it takes, the important thing is to keep learning and practicing. ❤️

Here's Eiffel Ong, focusing during his recent WCA competition. Eiffel began cubing with us in 2021. At the end of the first camp, he was able to complete a solve in 2 minutes. With months of consistent training and practice, this little cuber has progressed to the Advanced Class and now clocks a Personal Best of 38.52 seconds!

Don't stop challenging yourself, Eiffel! Our hearts are full of pride for you! 😎👏

We often get asked by parents what is the appropriate age to begin playing cube?

Even though our students, on average, are between the ages of 8 and 10, cubes can actually be learned by children as young as three. This is the ideal learning activity for kids who love puzzles and are curious about the world. Additionally, cubing is good for you in many ways.

🟥Cubing improves memory
The process of solving a cube improves your muscle memory, which is what helps you remember tasks after they have been practiced repeatedly. There are several activities that require muscle memory, including typing on a keyboard, punching in PIN numbers, playing the piano, practicing martial arts, and riding a bike. Some cubers are able to recall 10 algorithms rapidly and can store 100 algorithms in their brains at a time.

🟨Cubing improves reflexes
Imagine memorizing 100 algorithms while twisting the cube and solving the puzzle in less than five seconds. It is totally possible, and there are cubers who are highly coordinated and skilled in solving puzzles quickly.

You can use quick reflexes for many more things than cubing; they can help you read more quickly, identify items visually, and observe colors more quickly.

🟦Cubing improves problem-solving
Problem-solving is an integral part of life. As part of this skill, you break down an issue into smaller parts and address each piece individually. The Rubik's Cube offers over 43 quintillion possibilities for twisting and turning. As you solve the puzzle, you must focus and turn each section, while realizing that every twist affects the next.

Some people improved their math skills after much practice on identifying patterns. You can use these same abilities to learn grammar in a new language as well. A Cuber is one of the world's top creative problem solvers.

🟩Cubing improves patience
Cubing requires perseverance. The people who work at this must sit, think, and twist. Sit, think, and twist again and again. It can be incredibly satisfying to solve a complex puzzle like the cube. A cuber is confident when faced with difficult and time-consuming tasks.

⬜️Cubing improves concentration and configuration
Today's digital world is filled with blinking screens and beeping phones, making it difficult to focus on one task for long periods of time. Solving a Rubik's Cube keeps the brain cells active. In addition, the cube enhances the brain's capability to map information!

Jaden's mom expressed excitement over the son's WCA competition results in September 2022. The young cubing enthusiast has been learning cubing at Anzan since late 2021 and has progressed rapidly since then.

Kudos, Jaden! So glad to see you shine! 🔶🔶🔶

Thanks mummy. We are very proud of Eiffel too! Keep it up! 👏👏