The efficient cross

The white cross is the only completely free step: no algorithms, pure reasoning. It is also the one beginners do worst — often 25 moves where 8 would do.

Three changes from the beginner method

1. The cross is built on the bottom, directly

Forget the daisy. It is perfect for learning, but it costs twice as many moves: you take every edge up before bringing it back down.

Aim straight for the final spot, on the bottom. At first you will be slower. That is normal, and it passes within a week.

2. You stop looking at the cube while you turn

Competitions allow 15 seconds of inspection before the timer starts. That time is for planning the cross in full, so you can then execute it without thinking.

It is an exercise in its own right:

1. Scramble the cube and, without touching it, find the four white edges.
2. Plan the first one, then the second, keeping the first in memory.
3. When you have all four in your head, execute.

At first you will only manage two edges. That is already a real gain.

3. You count your moves

A well-built cross fits in 8 moves maximum. This is proven: on a random scramble, the optimal cross averages just under 6 moves.

Get into the habit of counting out loud. If you go over 10, work out why.

The most common mistake

Solving the edges one by one, in the order you spot them. Often two edges go in together with a single well-chosen move. Look for pairs before you start.

Keeping white on the bottom

Do not turn the cube over to look at the cross while you are building it. Learn to build it blind, from underneath.

It is disorienting for two days, then it becomes natural — and it saves you a full cube rotation on every solve, plus the mental reorientation that goes with it.

The drill that makes you improve

Time the cross only, over 20 scrambles in a row. Note your average. Aim for under 4 seconds, inspection included.

It is short, it takes ten minutes, and it is by far the most profitable practice when you are starting CFOP.