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Want to break Chennai’s Jayadharshan Venkatesan’s record for solving a Rubik’s Cube in 14.32 seconds while riding a cycle? Try these tips

Sleight of hand

Parth Anil Dalvi, 10, student
Anil Dalvi, Parth’s father, tells us that Parth can solve a 3x3 Rubik’s Cube in 25 to 30 seconds. They suggest:
. There are different formulae to solving a cube and each formula depends on the beginning pattern. So, obverse the cube properly, think ahead and decide which formula you should use.
. If you want to increase your speed, don’t turn to the side with your whole hand; be deft and train your fingers to move the cube. This will help you clock in at a good time. 

Impressive feat

Androse Fernandes, 22, mechanical engineer
I was determined to solve a Rubik’s Cube when I was in school. In the absence of the Internet, I came up with my own methods. Now, I can memorise the starting pattern and solve it blindfolded. You can do it too; start by familiarising yourself with the cube and observing where tiles move to. This will train your imaginative powers. Understanding the motions and patterns is the main secret. Personally, I think cubing is a great conversation starter for an introvert. Solving it can really pull a crowd and spark conversations.

(Left) Androse Fernandes; Minella Gracious with her son Clyde. Pic Courtesy/Claydon G

Child’s play

Minella Gracious, 46, Rubik’s Cube teacher, 
I started my cubing journey when I encouraged my four-year-old son to play with puzzles. I taught myself first so that I could teach him and now, my favourite cube is the megaminx with 12 sides. To help my students remember the algorithms, I incorporate them into stories to make the learning process more interesting. A tip for parents: introduce your child to Rubik’s Cubes but don’t force them. Let them develop interest; their curiosity will eventually take over. It’s a great way to de-stress and build logical thinking skills in them.

Take it further

Whether you’re an eager beginner or a seasoned pro, here’s our pick of resources to explore. 
. Do it yourself: Delve into the vast universe of Rubik’s Cubes and the algorithms to solve different variants.
Log on to how-to-solve-a-rubix-cube.com
Free

. Guided solving: Minella Gracious gives online classes to students from ages seven upwards.
Log on to Minella’s Superstars on Facebook 
Cost Rs 700 onwards

. Go digital: If you want to try your hand at solving a Rubik’s Cube before you invest in one, practise on this online simulator
Log on to rubiks-cu.be

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