Learn Cube Notation and Try This - R U2 R' | L' U2 L
Learn cube notation and practice the R U2 R' then L' U2 L algorithm on a 3x3 Rubik's Cube to observe piece movement.
About this tutorial
Learn cube notation and practice the R U2 R' then L' U2 L algorithm on a 3x3 Rubik's Cube to observe piece movement.
What you need
Step by step
- 1
Step 1
Place the cube so the white face is on top and the green face is facing you.
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Step 2
Learn the meaning of R by saying or remembering: R means turn the right face clockwise 90 degrees.
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Step 3
Learn the meaning of R' by saying or remembering: R' means turn the right face counterclockwise 90 degrees.
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Step 4
Learn the meaning of U2 by saying or remembering: U2 means turn the top (up) face 180 degrees.
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Step 5
Learn the meaning of L by saying or remembering: L means turn the left face clockwise 90 degrees.
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Step 6
Learn the meaning of L' by saying or remembering: L' means turn the left face counterclockwise 90 degrees.
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Step 7
Make sure the cube is fully solved so each face is one solid color before you start.
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Step 8
Carefully perform the moves R U2 R' slowly and in that exact order.
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Step 9
Look closely at the cube and point out which stickers moved and which pieces (edges or corners) changed places.
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Step 10
Perform the moves R U2 R' one more time to return the cube to the solved state.
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Step 11
Carefully perform the moves L' U2 L slowly and in that exact order.
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Step 12
Look closely at the cube and point out which stickers moved and how those pieces changed places.
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Step 13
Perform the moves L' U2 L one more time to return the cube to the solved state.
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Step 14
Share a photo or description of what you observed and learned about the piece movements on DIY.org.
Fun facts
How do I teach a child to learn cube notation and practice R U2 R' then L' U2 L?
Start by explaining face names and notation (R = right face clockwise, R' = counterclockwise, U2 = up face 180°). Have the cube solved, show the algorithm slowly: R U2 R' then L' U2 L. Walk through one move at a time and ask the child to watch which pieces move. Repeat slowly, then increase speed. Encourage them to describe what they see and to try the sequence from different cube orientations.
What materials do I need to try the R U2 R' | L' U2 L activity?
You need a standard 3x3 Rubik's Cube (stickered or stickerless). Print or display a simple notation chart so the child can reference R, R', L, U2 meanings. Optional items: a table or mat to work on, a smartphone or camera to record moves for replay, paper and pencil to note observations, and an adult to supervise early attempts. No special tools or glue are required.
What ages is learning cube notation and practicing these algorithms suitable for?
This activity suits children roughly 7 years and up who can follow step sequences and have basic fine motor control. Younger children (5–6) can participate with close adult help, watching moves and naming faces. Older kids and teens will grasp notation faster and can experiment with speed. Adapt instruction pace and use hands-on demonstration for younger learners to keep it fun and manageable.
What are the benefits of practicing the R U2 R' and L' U2 L algorithms?
Practicing these algorithms builds spatial reasoning, pattern recognition, and sequential memory. It teaches cube notation and how specific moves affect piece positions, improving observation and problem-solving skills. Variations like reversing the algorithm, repeating it, or marking pieces to track movement deepen understanding. It's also a patient, screen-free activity that strengthens fine motor control and concentration.
Watch & Learn
Need help?
What can we use if we don't have a standard 3x3 Rubik's Cube?
If you don't have a 3x3 cube, use a 2x2 cube or a virtual cube app and still set white on top and green facing you before practicing the R U2 R' and L' U2 L moves.
I followed R U2 R' twice but the cube didn't return to solved—what should I check?
Check that the cube was fully solved with white on top and green front before starting, confirm you turned the correct faces (right for R/R' and top for U2), and make sure U2 was a full 180° and the moves were done in the exact order R U2 R'.
How can I adapt this activity for younger or older kids?
For younger children, simplify by practicing single moves like R or U2 hand-over-hand and using a 2x2 or color diagrams, while older kids can time themselves, record which edges and corners moved after R U2 R' and L' U2 L, and analyze the piece cycles.
How can we extend or personalize the activity after completing R U2 R' and L' U2 L?
Extend the activity by photographing the cube before and after each algorithm, labeling which stickers, edges, or corners changed places, inventing your own two-move sequences to test, and sharing annotated photos and observations on DIY.org.