How does a 2x2 work?

(Mostly transcript from video)

I remember when I started cubing I was very confused at how a 2x2 actually worked.  I understood that on a 3x3 you had a bunch of pieces that moved around each other, but I felt like there were not enough pieces.

Well, how does it work?
...pretty much a 2x2, is a 3x3.

If we take apart the DaYan Zhanchi and the DaYan 2x2 you can see what I mean.  They are almost exactly alike.  The edges of a 3x3 looks almost exactly like the internal pieces of a 2x2, and the 3x3 corner looks just like the 2x2 corner.

3x3 on left, 2x2 on right

3x3 on left, 2x2 on right

Basically the 2x2 is a 3x3 but with enlarged corners that overlap over the edges.  Most of the 2x2s that exist today are built using this formula.

If you have any thoughts on new "common cube questions" for either beginners or more advanced cubers please leave them in the comments below.