Perfection is an ideal that is seldom ever fulfilled, but that doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t strive for it.  After all, a failure to perfect something can still yield positive results.  While you may never be able to make a cup of coffee that’s “just right,” a quality blend is far from impossible, and if you follow these tips (courtesy of the Chicago Tribune), you’ll see that this is true.

1.Ensure that your coffee beans are fresh.  This way, you’ll get the most flavor out of them.  Since exposure to air will significantly reduce their freshness, it’s a good idea to keep them in an airtight container.  Don’t store them in a freezer, however; the resulting condensation can compromise their integrity.

2.When brewing, stick to simple, non-electric methods.  This will allow for the most even extraction.

3.Consider investing in a good burr grinder and use it before you brew.  Propeller grinders are thought to produce uneven grinds.

4.For every six to eight ounces of water, use 2 tablespoons of coffee.  Measure carefully!

5.Don’t use water that you wouldn’t drink.  Filtered and bottled water should do the trick.