How to solve a Pyraminx
Match the tips, arrange the four corner sections, insert three first-layer edges and finish the final three edges.
Know the pieces
A Pyraminx has four triangular faces. Its visible pieces can be grouped into four tips, four larger corner or centre sections (often called axial pieces) and six edges.
Correct the tips
Match each small tip
Rotate each of the four tips independently until every tip matches the larger corner section directly beneath it. These tiny turns do not disturb the rest of the puzzle, so this is the easiest part of the solve.
Position the corner sections
Build the framework for one face
Rotate the larger corner sections until the three corners containing one chosen colour all place that colour on the same face. This tutorial uses yellow as the first layer.
Once those three corners agree, rotate the fourth corner section until it matches the surrounding colours. The puzzle now has the correct framework for inserting the edges.
Insert the first-layer edges
Find an edge in the upper layer that contains your first-layer colour. Turn the upper layer until that sticker sits above the position where the edge belongs. Then choose the right or left insertion according to the edge's position.
Right insertion
R' L R L'Show move-by-move notation images
Left insertion
L R' L' RShow move-by-move notation images
Use the colours to confirm the target
The front-left view reveals the hidden side of the same edge. It does not change the notation or algorithm; it simply makes the blue sticker and its destination easier to see.
L R' L' RShow notation in the front-left view
If an edge is already inserted incorrectly
Hold the flipped edge at the front and perform either insertion algorithm to remove it. Turn the upper layer to place it above the correct slot, then insert it normally from the appropriate side.
First layer complete
Repeat the insertion process for the remaining two yellow edges. The entire yellow face should be solved, and the lower parts of the neighbouring faces should form solid colours.
Solve the last layer
Only three edges remain. First move each edge to the correct position; an edge can be in the correct position even when it is flipped.
R U R' U R U R'Show move-by-move notation images
Perform the algorithm and inspect the puzzle. Repeat it if necessary. Within two applications, the Pyraminx will either be solved or the three edges will be positioned with two of them flipped.
Flip the final two edges
Hold the two-flipped-edge case exactly as shown and perform:
R' L R L' U L' U' L