Before you start changing things, figure out which problem you're actually solving. Use this quick checklist to identify the dominant off-flavor.
| If it tastes like… | It's probably… | Quick fix direction |
|---|---|---|
| Watery, thin, no punch | Wrong strength (too weak) | Add more coffee / use less water |
| Sour, tangy, empty aftertaste | Under-extraction | Grind finer / brew longer / hotter water |
| Dry, bitter, dusty, astringent | Over-extraction | Grind coarser / brew less / cooler water |
| Both sour AND bitter | Channeling / uneven extraction | Improve grind uniformity / stir / bloom |
Note: It's possible to have more than one issue at once. Start with the most obvious problem, fix it, then taste again.
