Great coffee at home isn’t about expensive gear. It’s about doing a few simple things the same way every morning.

1. Use fresh beans

Buy beans in small amounts and use them within three to four weeks of the roast date printed on the bag.

2. Grind right before brewing

Ground coffee loses aroma within minutes. A basic burr grinder will improve your cup more than any other upgrade.

3. Weigh your coffee and water

Start with 1 gram of coffee for every 16 grams of water. Adjust from there until it tastes right to you.

4. Mind the water temperature

Aim for 92 to 96°C, or let boiled water rest for about 30 seconds.

5. Taste and adjust one thing

If it’s sour, grind finer. If it’s bitter, grind coarser. Change one variable at a time.