Buy whole beans and grind your coffee just prior to brewing to ensure freshness. Always use the proper grind for your coffee maker. Remember; the quicker the brew time, the finer the grind. The slower the brew time the more coarse your grind will need to be. Coffee is 98% water so always start with clean, fresh filtered water (never softened water). Using tap water could impart a taint or distasteful flavor in your coffee. As a starting point, use two level tablespoons per 6 oz. of water. Tastes will vary, so adjust the amount to suit your preference. When you are finished brewing, don't forget to clean your brewer. It will last longer and produce a sweeter tasting coffee if kept clean. And last, but certainly not least, avoid leaving coffee on a burner for any length of time, or the coffee will take on a burnt, charred flavor.