ALWAYS start with fresh, cold water. Water from the hot tap can often contain mineral deposits which, at worst, can make you sick or, at least, give your tea an unpleasant metallic taste. Re-boiling water reduces the oxygen content as well as changing the flavour.

Use at least three bags of a good, strong black tea for a standard pot. If tea is plentiful, use a bag per person drinking, plus one for the pot.

First, fill a kettle with very cold water and heat it to a fast boil. Around when the water boils, pour a small portion into your teapot and swirl it around to heat the pot. If you do not heat your teapot, the tea seems to taste different. A more compelling reason to heat one's teapot before brewing is that your teapot could split in two from the sudden change in temperature (I've seen it happen). Empty the water from your teapot and put the teabags inside. In one smooth motion, fill the teapot with boiling water, pouring over the teabags to encourage thorough brewing. Put the top on your teapot and wait 45 seconds. Remove your teabags, giving them a quick stir if desired. Serve!

Quick review:

• Boil Water.
• Heat Pot.
• Brew for 45 seconds.
• Serve.

Voila: the perfect cup of tea!
(Thanks, Rex!)