Beginner method · step 5 of 7

Step 5: Match the yellow edges.

The yellow cross is on top, but its edges may not match the centres on the sides. This step lines them up. It uses one algorithm that swaps two neighbouring edges and leaves the others alone.

Goal of this step Every yellow edge's side colour matches the centre of the face it is on.

Turn the top layer and look

Turn the top layer until as many of the yellow edges as possible match the side centres: a green side sticker on the green face, and so on. Two matching edges is common. If all four match, go to step 6.

Two matching edges next to each other

Hold the cube so the two matching edges are at the back and the right. Do R U R' U R U2 R' U. The two edges at the front and left swap, so all four match.

Anything else

If the matching edges are opposite each other, or only one or none match, do the algorithm once from any side. Then turn the top layer, look again and use the rule above. You will never need the algorithm more than twice.

Watch it, step by step

Press play to watch the moves on a cube, or step through them one at a time. Drag the cube to look from another side.

Swap the front and left edgesThe edges at the back and right are right. The edges at the front and left swap.

Turn on JavaScript to watch this on a 3D cube. The moves are: R U R' U R U2 R' U

Common mistakes

Holding the matching edges in the wrong places. They must be at the back and the right.
Forgetting to turn the top layer first. Turn it until as many edges as possible match.
Using the algorithm too many times. Check after each go: one or two is all you need.

FAQ

Step 5: questions

Does this algorithm move the corners?

Yes, but the corners do not matter yet. We fix them in steps 6 and 7.

What if only one edge matches?

Do the algorithm once from any side. Then turn the top layer and check again.

How many times will I do it?

The most you will ever need is twice. Many cubes need it once or not at all.

Is this a famous algorithm?

It is the Sune, R U R' U R U2 R', followed by one turn of the top layer. The Sune appears again in two-look OLL.

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