What Is an Algsheet in Speedcubing and How Do You Use One?

Updated

An algsheet is a collection of algorithms for one puzzle or one step of a solve, organized so you can look up, compare, and practice them. It is not a single algorithm and not the same thing as a full algorithm database: an algsheet is usually curated for a purpose, such as learning all PLL cases, drilling a specific method, or tracking which algs you have switched to. You use one by reading the notation, grouping algs by case, and practicing them in sets until each case is automatic.

Algsheet vs. single alg vs. algorithm database

Thing What it is Typical use
Single alg One sequence of moves that solves one case Learning or executing that one case
Algsheet A curated set of algs for a puzzle or step Practice, comparison, method building
Algorithm database A broad, searchable collection covering many puzzles and cases Finding options, checking alternatives

A database like Speed Cube Database covers algorithms for 2x2 through 6x6, SQ1, Pyraminx, and Megaminx. An algsheet is narrower: it is the subset you actually care about right now.

Common formats for an algsheet

  • Printable sheet — a page or two of algs grouped by case, often used for sitting down and drilling.
  • Spreadsheet — rows for cases, columns for the alg, notes, and status. Good for tracking changes over time.
  • Online alg list — a page or document you can search and copy from, sometimes with video links.

The format matters less than the grouping. If cases are mixed together with no labels, the sheet is hard to practice from.

How to read an algsheet

Each entry normally has a case name and a move sequence in standard notation. For example, a PLL sheet lists case names like "T perm" or "Y perm" next to their sequences. To use it:

  1. Identify the case on your cube.
  2. Find that case name in the sheet.
  3. Read the notation and perform the moves.
  4. Repeat until you no longer need to look it up.

If the sheet groups algs by method or step, work through one group at a time instead of jumping around.

Building and maintaining your own algsheet

  1. Pick a scope. One step or one puzzle, not everything at once.
  2. List the cases. Use a database to find the case names you need.
  3. Choose one alg per case. Add alternatives in a separate column if you want to compare.
  4. Add notes. Fingertrick reminders, which hand starts, or where you learned it.
  5. Mark status. Track what you know, what you are learning, and what you have replaced.
  6. Review and update. Remove algs you have dropped and add new ones you have adopted.

Personal algsheet vs. browsing a database

A personal algsheet is best when you are drilling and want only your chosen algs in one place. Browsing a database is best when you are still choosing, want to see multiple options for the same case, or need coverage across many puzzles. Many cubers do both: browse the database to pick algs, then copy the chosen ones into their own sheet.

Common issues to watch for

  • Outdated algs. An alg you learned years ago may have been replaced by a faster one. Check against a current source before assuming yours is best.
  • Inconsistent notation. Mixing notations makes a sheet hard to read. Stick to one standard.
  • Missing fingertrick notes. A sequence alone does not tell you how to execute it smoothly. Add a note if a case gives you trouble.
  • No grouping. A flat list of algs is harder to practice than one sorted by case or step.

Start with one step, build a small sheet, and expand it as you learn. The sheet is a tool for practice, so keep it short enough that you actually use it.