A common mistake in speedcubing is slowing down during cross solution. Even experienced cubers should execute their pre-planned cross solution as quickly as possible, maximizing turning speed. While initially difficult due to needing to track piece placement and optimize finger tricks, aiming for maximum speed from the start is crucial. Slowing down to better find the first pair is only beneficial later in the solve, not during the cross itself. High-level solvers predict the first pair without pausing, emphasizing speed and efficiency in the cross solution.