Notation for 4×4

Before learning 4×4 notation, review the 3×3 notation. The six sides of the 4×4 puzzle are the same as in the 3×3: L, R, D, U, F, and B.

This website uses a common 4×4 convention in which uppercase R means the outer right layer, lowercase r means only the inner layer beside it, and Rw means both layers together. To differentiate between outer (capitalized) and inner (lowercase) turns, screen reader users should configure audible announcement of capital letters.

Be aware that cube notation is not completely standardized. On some websites, lowercase r is used as an abbreviation for Rw instead. Always check a website’s notation before using its algorithms.

In summary:

• Right outer layer: R, R′, and R2.
• Right inner layer: r, r′, and r2.
• Right double layer (wide): Rw, Rw′, and Rw2.

Whole cube rotations are as for the 3×3 puzzle.