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.
Use yellow on top for the examples below. “Front,” “right,” and “back” refer to the faces as you hold them, not to a colour that is always assigned to that direction. Keep this orientation fixed throughout a 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 top corners on the right. It also swaps the top-left and top-right edge pieces. It preserves the first two layers and the orientation of the top layer. Use it to practise distinguishing corner position from corner 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 a solved state. This controlled exercise is safer than assuming the algorithm will solve any last-layer state.
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: preserve all the corners
R U' R U R U R U' R' U' R2
This sequence cycles the top-front, top-right and top-left edge pieces while leaving the top-back edge fixed. All corners, the first two layers, and top-face orientation stay unchanged. Hold the completely solved side at the back before using it on a matching case.
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, as the yellow face alone is insufficient to confirm the result.
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 keeps the same back edge fixed. To set up a practice case for it, start with a solved cube and perform the preceding algorithm once.
You can also solve the opposite cycle by repeating the first sequence twice. That takes more moves but gives you less to memorise while learning. Both options produce the same final piece arrangement.
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 the 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. Avoid making a U turn during this regrip, as it would move the aligned corners.
- Use the side colours of the three remaining edges to identify where they belong. Choose the cycle 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 the corners are aligned and none of the sides is solved, use the guided final-edge lesson to create and recognise a three-edge case. These three sequences form a small practice set drawn from the full 21-case PLL system.
Practise without losing your place
Use the worked example in the three-edge cycle lesson for a prepared starting state, move-by-move playback, and a checkpoint. The algorithms reference links to Digital Cube practice. Read the notation guide if a prime or half-turn is unfamiliar.
Start slowly enough to keep the same face at the front. Once you can solve a prepared case consistently, practise recognising it from different angles by rotating the whole cube. Increase your speed only when you can perform the sequence and its setup reliably.
