Permutation of the last layer (PLL) puts already oriented last-layer pieces into their correct positions. Before using these algorithms, the first two layers must be solved and every top sticker must show the top colour. If corners are still twisted or top edges are flipped, return to last-layer orientation.
For the examples below, hold the cube with yellow on top. ‘Front’, ‘right’ and ‘back’ describe the position of each face as you hold the cube, regardless of its colour. Keep the same orientation throughout each sequence.
T permutation: exchange two corners and two edges
R U R' U' R' F R2 U' R' U' R U R' F'
This sequence swaps the two right-hand corners of the top layer and swaps the top-left and top-right edges. It preserves the first two layers and the orientation of the top layer. It helps you distinguish a corner’s position from its orientation.
Prepare a known case: start with a solved cube and apply the sequence once. Inspect the corners and edges that moved, then apply the sequence a second time without changing your grip. The cube returns to its solved state. This controlled exercise is safer than applying the algorithm to an arbitrary last-layer state and assuming it will solve it.
For other corner arrangements, follow the recognition and setup steps in positioning the last-layer corners. A top-layer adjustment may be needed after the permutation. Do not use this step while the top corners still need twisting.
Three-edge cycle: leave the corners unchanged
R U' R U R U R U' R' U' R2
This sequence cycles the top-front, top-right and top-left edges while leaving the top-back edge fixed. The corners, the first two layers and the orientation of the top face stay unchanged. Before applying the sequence to a matching case, hold the cube with the fully solved side at the back.
Prepare a known case: start with a solved cube and perform the inverse sequence below once. Then perform the sequence above. The cube should be solved. Check the back face and corner alignment before and after, rather than relying on the yellow face alone.
The opposite three-edge cycle
R2 U R U R' U' R' U' R' U R'
This is the inverse of the preceding algorithm. It cycles the same three edges in the opposite direction and leaves the same back edge fixed. To set up this case for practice, start with a solved cube and perform the preceding algorithm once.
You can also solve the opposite cycle by repeating the first sequence twice. This takes more moves, but there’s less to memorise while you’re learning. Both options produce the same final arrangement of pieces.
Recognise the case before choosing the moves
- Check that the lower two layers and entire top face are solved.
- Compare the two top corner stickers on each side with the centre below them. If they do not match, deal with corners first.
- If corners are correct, find a side whose top edge also matches its centre. Rotate the whole cube to put that solved side at the back. Do not turn U during this regrip: that would move the aligned corners.
- Use the side colours to work out where the three remaining edges belong. Choose the direction that moves each edge towards its correct centre.
- After the sequence, check every side and the bottom. An entirely yellow top is necessary but is not proof of a solved cube.
If no side is solved while the corners are aligned, use the guided final-edge lesson to create and recognise a three-edge case. These three sequences form a small practice set. The full PLL system has 21 cases.
Practise without losing your place
Use the worked example in the three-edge cycle lesson to practise from a prepared starting position, play the moves one at a time and check your progress at the checkpoint. The algorithms reference links to practice in Digital Cube. If you’re unfamiliar with primes or half-turns, read the notation guide.
Start slowly enough to keep the same face towards you. Once you can solve a prepared case consistently, practise recognising it with the whole cube held at different angles. Speed up only when you can set up the case and perform the sequence reliably.
