Your first competition
What to prepare, what happens at the station and how recording fits into official attempts.
Before the event
- •Read the event page, schedule, registration requirements and current WCA Regulations. An app's practice mode does not replace those rules.
- •Bring the puzzles you entered, check that they work, and arrive for check-in and the new-competitor briefing.
- •Learn the roles of judge, scrambler and runner. Be available to help when assigned.
At the station
The judge presents the covered puzzle and checks that you are ready. Follow the official inspection, start and stop procedure. Let the judge assess the puzzle before moving it, check the recorded result and sign when appropriate. Raise a concern with the judge or Delegate rather than altering the result yourself.
Recording is not live coaching
WCA rules permit cameras at the Delegate's discretion with their displays blank or out of the competitor's sight. Active screens displaying information to the competitor are not permitted during an attempt, and puzzles with electronic components are not permitted. A practice station with live analysis is not automatically legal at an official solving station. Obtain the organizer's and Delegate's agreement for any installation.
Authoritative rules
Consult worldcubeassociation.org/regulations for the current requirements, including inspection penalties, approved timers, camera placement and puzzle eligibility. Procedures can change; the Delegate resolves questions at the event.