Efficient cross

Build the cross on the bottom, in 8 moves at most, planned during inspection.

Goal of this step

With the beginner method, the cross is often built piece by piece, sometimes on top before flipping the cube. In CFOP, the cross is always built on the bottom (white on the bottom, yellow on top): that way you directly see the F2L pieces show up on top.

Good news: any cross can be solved in 8 moves at most, and 6 on average. In competition you get 15 seconds of inspection before starting: that is when you plan the whole cross in your head.

The examples below show short crosses. Watch how each move places an edge without disturbing one that is already in place.

Cases and algorithms

Example 1: three white edges are misplaced. All of them are placed in 5 moves, without ever flipping the cube.

F R' D' R2 D

Example 2: all four edges are scattered, and 5 moves are still enough.

R' F' L' D2 B2

Tips

During inspection, first spot the 4 white edges, then look for moves that bring two of them together.
Place the edges relative to each other: if the cross ends up offset, a single D move lines it up with the centers.
Drill: plan your cross during inspection, then do it with your eyes closed. It is the best way to learn to see ahead.